While cycling, the bones in the foot work together to provide stability, power, and efficient movement. The foot’s arch supports the weight of the body and helps absorb shock with each pedal stroke. The bones in the foot, including the tarsals, metatarsals, and phalanges, form a flexible structure that adapts to the pressure of pedaling. The first metatarsal bone plays a vital role in pushing down on the pedal, while the other metatarsals work together to distribute force evenly. The bones in the foot, along with the muscles and tendons, maintain balance and ensure a smooth, effective pedal stroke. Proper cycling shoes are essential for supporting the foot’s bones, preventing unnecessary stress, and improving performance. If you have sustained a foot injury while cycling, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Jeffrey L. Bober, DPM from Maryland. 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 Glen Burnie, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Selecting the right shoes for toddlers is essential for their comfort and foot development. It is important to choose shoes when your toddler begins to walk, as proper footwear can support their growing feet. Look for shoes that provide ample room for the toes to move freely, as tight shoes can hinder natural foot development. Soft, flexible soles are key to allowing the feet to move naturally while providing protection. Ensure the shoes have adequate arch support and cushioning to absorb shock and reduce pressure on the feet. The fit is important, so check the shoes regularly to ensure they are not too tight as your child’s feet grow quickly. Choose lightweight shoes that are easy to put on and take off, helping to foster independence in toddlers while keeping their feet safe and healthy. If your child has a foot condition, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose the problem, offer effective treatment solutions, as well as educate you on the first shoes for your toddler.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Jeffrey L. Bober, DPM of Maryland. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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

Hammertoes are a common foot condition where one or more of the toes bend abnormally at the middle joint, causing them to resemble a hammer. There are two types of hammertoes, flexible and rigid. In flexible hammertoe, the joint is still movable but bends downward, causing pain when walking or wearing shoes. Over time, if left untreated, a flexible hammertoe can become rigid, where the joint becomes fixed in a bent position, making the condition more painful and difficult to treat. The primary causes of hammertoes include wearing ill-fitting shoes, genetics, and muscle imbalances that affect the alignment of the toes. High heels and wearing tight footwear can worsen the condition by crowding the toes and forcing them into unnatural positions. Visiting a podiatrist is key to a proper diagnosis and treatment. This type of doctor can recommend orthotics, exercises, or in severe cases, surgery to correct the deformity and relieve pain. If you have a  hammertoe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Jeffrey L. Bober, DPM of Maryland. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

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