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Overpronation occurs when the arch of the foot collapses while bearing weight when a person is walking or standing. This issue is very common in patients who have flexible flat feet. As the arch begins to collapse, this overpronation stresses the feet and can lead to multiple issues. These issues can include plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, metatarsalgia, tendonitis, and bunions. Overpronation can be caused by a variety of factors, including obesity and pregnancy. Patients with overpronation may not feel discomfort early on or at all. Orthotics are often used to support the arch of the foot and treat this condition. Properly fitting footwear that has a firm heel should also be worn. If you are struggling with the overpronation of your foot, make sure to consult with a podiatrist.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. George Yarnell from Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Lansdowne, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Joint pain in the big toe and surrounding area could be indicative of gout. This is an arthritic condition that generally causes severe pain and discomfort, and many patients also find it difficult to walk. Common symptoms of gout can include swelling and redness around the affected joint, and it may be painful to move the toe. This condition is caused by excess uric acid in the blood, and it can occur from specific types of foods that are eaten. These can consist of foods that have high levels of purines, which may include shellfish, organ meats, and drinks that have elevated amounts of sugar. Research has shown that patients who are obese may be prone to developing gout as well. If you are afflicted with gout or experience gout attacks, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can effectively treat and manage this condition.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. George Yarnell from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lansdowne, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Many people have general aches and pains in their feet. When pain develops in the ball of the foot, it may be indicative of a condition that is referred to as Morton’s neuroma. This is an ailment that affects the nerves in the feet that helps to avoid falling by maintaining balance. It develops as a result of inflamed nerves which can happen for a variety of reasons. These can include wearing shoes that do not fit correctly or from medical ailments consisting of bunions, hammertoe, and flat feet. Mild relief may be found when the affected foot is massaged, and it may be beneficial to wear custom made orthotics. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is strongly suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat Morton’s neuroma.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Dr. George Yarnell of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lansdowne, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Bunions are bony bumps that form on the outside of the big toe at the base of the joint. Bunions typically form due to excess pressure being placed on the big toe joint over time. However, there are several other types of bunions as well. A congenital hallux valgus refers to a bunion that is present in a baby at birth. Juvenile or adolescent hallux valgus refer to bunions that occur in children between the ages of 10 and 15. A Tailor’s bunion, which is also known as a bunionette, forms on the outside of the pinky toe, rather than on the big toe. Bunions may not cause symptoms initially, but tend to progress and become more uncomfortable and even painful over time. If you have bunions, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for treatment. 

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Dr. George Yarnell of Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Podiatrists often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your provider.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lansdowne, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.