The way a runner's foot strikes the ground is fundamental to performance and injury prevention. Proper foot strike can enhance efficiency and reduce stress on the joints. There are three main types of foot strikes known as heel strike, midfoot strike, and forefoot strike. Heel striking, where the heel lands first, is common among many runners but can lead to increased impact forces. A midfoot strike, where the foot lands flat, promotes better shock absorption and a smoother transition. Lastly, forefoot striking, landing on the balls of the feet, can improve speed but may require stronger calf muscles. Each runner’s ideal foot strike varies based on individual biomechanics, running style, and fitness level. To find the best technique, it is advisable to focus on a natural stride, engage in strength training, and consider consulting a podiatrist. If you have sustained a foot or ankle injury while running, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can provide treatment and guide you on effective running form.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Elie C. Daniel, DPM from Illinois. 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 offices located in Princeton, Peru, and Mendota, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ingrown toenails develop when the nail grows into the surrounding skin, or when the skin grows over the edge of the nail. A primary cause of ingrown toenails is improper nail trimming, such as cutting the nail and rounding the edges instead of cutting straight across. This may result in the nail curling under and digging into the skin, which often results in pain as well as potential for infection. Other risk factors for ingrown toenails are wearing shoes that squeeze the toes, engaging in activities that put pressure on the feet, and having foot abnormalities like bunions or hammertoes. People with a family history of ingrown toenails, diabetes, or poor circulation are also more susceptible. Symptoms often include redness, swelling, and pain, and if untreated, can progress to infection. A podiatrist can assess and treat the condition, using techniques to relieve pain and in severe cases removing part of the nail or nail bed. If you have a painful or infected ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Elie C. Daniel, DPM of Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Princeton, Peru, and Mendota, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete’s foot is a highly contagious fungal infection that thrives in moist environments. This makes places like locker rooms, public showers, and swimming pools common hotspots for spreading the infection. The fungi responsible for athlete’s foot are called dermatophytes. They feed on keratin, which is found in the dead skin cells on your feet. Once the athlete's foot fungus invades the skin, it can cause itchiness, which often leads to scratching. This scratching can push the fungus deeper into the skin, allowing it to spread and persist. Walking barefoot on contaminated surfaces or sharing items like shoes, socks, or towels can also pass the infection to others. Without treatment, athlete’s foot remains contagious, and the infection can linger for weeks or months. A podiatrist can provide a thorough treatment plan, including antifungal medications and advice on preventing reinfection. If you have athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Elie C. Daniel, DPM from Illinois.  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Princeton, Peru, and Mendota, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A bruised heel, also known as a heel contusion, occurs when the heel experiences trauma or impact, leading to damage of the soft tissues and blood vessels. This condition often results from activities that involve jumping, running, or walking on hard surfaces. Symptoms typically include localized pain, swelling, and tenderness on the heel. The area may also appear discolored due to internal bleeding. The pain is usually sharp and may worsen with pressure or movement. Relief for a bruised heel involves rest to avoid aggravating the injury, and performing gentle stretching exercises to promote healing. Pain relief medication can help manage discomfort. If symptoms persist or worsen, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a thorough evaluation, and to rule out more serious injuries.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Elie C. Daniel, DPM of Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Princeton, Peru, and Mendota, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Supination refers to the outward rolling motion of the foot during walking or running, where the weight is concentrated on the outer edges of the foot. Excessive supination can lead to various issues such as ankle instability and foot pain. Specific exercises can be very beneficial. Strengthening exercises like calf raises and toe taps help enhance the muscles that support proper foot alignment. Stretching exercises, such as calf stretches and foam rolling, can improve flexibility and reduce tension in the calf muscles. Additionally, balance exercises like single-leg stand and stability ball exercises can help improve overall foot stability. If you have this type of foot condition, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can provide treatment options which may include additional exercises.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Elie C. Daniel, DPM from Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctor to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Princeton, Peru, and Mendota, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.