Foot Anatomy and Its Role in Long-Distance Running

During long-distance running, foot anatomy plays a critical role in efficiency, balance, and injury prevention. The gait cycle places repeated stress on the foot as it absorbs impact and propels the body forward. Intrinsic muscles within the foot provide stability, arch support, and fine control, while extrinsic muscles originating in the leg generate power and guide motion. When these systems are overworked or imbalanced, running injuries like tendinitis and stress reactions may develop. Poor mechanics can increase strain on bones, muscles, and connective tissues, over time. A podiatrist can analyze running gait, identify biomechanical faults, and recommend custom orthotics, footwear guidance, and other targeted treatments. If you have foot pain from running, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment and prevention tips.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Front Range Podiatry. Our doctors 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 Littleton, CO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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When Inner Arch Support Starts to Break Down

Posterior tibial tendon irritation is a condition involving the tendon that runs along the inside of the ankle and foot, helping support the arch and stabilize movement. When this tendon becomes inflamed or overstressed, it can no longer function properly. Early signs of this condition often include pain or swelling along the inner foot, aching after activity, and a feeling of weakness when walking. Over time, the arch may gradually flatten, and standing or exercising can become uncomfortable. Treatment focuses on reducing stress on the tendon while restoring support. Care may include rest, activity modification, supportive footwear, custom orthotics, and targeted exercises to improve strength and flexibility. Addressing the problem early can slow progression and protect foot structure. If you notice inner foot pain, swelling, or arch changes, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an evaluation and treatment.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Front Range Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

  • Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
  • Ankle sprains
  • Broken ankles
  • Achilles tendinitis
  • Achilles tendon rupture
  • Stress fractures
  • Tarsal tunnel syndrome
  • Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Littleton, CO . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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Dealing With Diabetic Foot Blisters

People with diabetes face a higher risk of foot blisters because nerve changes can reduce sensation, and skin may become fragile. Friction and pressure from footwear can continue without pain as a warning sign, allowing a blister to worsen quickly. Blisters often form on the toes, heels, or the ball of the foot, and can break down into open wounds that are slow to heal. When skin is compromised, the risk of infection and ulcer formation increases. A podiatrist can assess circulation, skin quality, and pressure points to determine whether infection or deeper tissue damage is present. Care options include safe and sterile blister management, protection of surrounding skin, and strategies to reduce repeated pressure. Regular monitoring helps protect diabetic feet and lowers the risk of serious complications. If you suffer from diabetic foot blisters, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for ongoing treatment.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of Front Range Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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

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Different Types of Foot and Ankle Wounds Explained

Foot and ankle wounds fall into several common categories based on how they develop. Pressure-related wounds form from constant weight or rubbing and are often found on heels, toes, or areas over bone. Arterial wounds are linked to poor blood flow, and usually appear on the toes or outer foot with dry or pale tissue. Venous wounds occur when blood does not return well to the heart and are more common around the ankles with swelling and skin discoloration. Neuropathic wounds develop when sensation is reduced, allowing injuries to go unnoticed and worsen over time. Additionally, surgical wounds may struggle to close after procedures if swelling, infection, or movement interferes with healing. Traumatic wounds result from cuts, punctures, or falls and vary in depth and severity. Identifying the type helps guide care. If a foot or ankle wound is slow to heal, evaluation by a podiatrist is suggested for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with one of our podiatrists from Front Range Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Littleton, CO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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