The way your feet move with each step affects how they absorb impact and support your body. Supination describes the outward rolling motion that shifts weight toward the outer edge of the foot with each step. Some supination is normal, especially as the foot becomes firmer to push off the ground. Problems develop when the foot stays too far toward its outer edge instead of distributing pressure more evenly. Excessive supination, also called underpronation, reduces shock absorption and places extra stress on certain areas. People with high arches are more likely to have this pattern, although arch height alone does not establish a diagnosis.

Foot structure plays an important role in excessive supination. An inherited high arch or a rigid foot sometimes limits the movement that helps absorb impact. Muscle imbalances and previous ankle injuries also affect how weight moves through the foot. In some patients, nerve or muscle disorders contribute to changes in foot position. Symptoms include pain along the outside of the foot, heel discomfort, or repeated ankle sprains. Some people develop painful calluses where pressure builds against the skin. Repeated stress also increases the risk of small cracks in a bone, called stress fractures. Persistent discomfort should not be dismissed as ordinary fatigue.

A podiatrist evaluates supination by asking about symptoms and examining the feet while the patient stands and walks. This assessment reveals how the heel moves and where weight travels with each step. The exam also checks out joint flexibility, muscle strength, and ankle stability. Looking at shoe wear provides additional clues, but worn outer edges alone do not confirm excessive supination. A podiatrist also considers previous injuries and any changes in sensation. X-rays help identify bone alignment problems or suspected injuries when the examination points to these concerns. Identifying the underlying cause helps guide treatment that matches the patient's foot structure and symptoms.

Treatment focuses on relieving pressure and improving support. A podiatrist recommends shoes with cushioning suited to the patient's foot shape and walking pattern. Prescribed orthotics, which are inserts specifically designed for the patient’s feet, help redistribute pressure and support more comfortable movement. Patients with repeated ankle sprains sometimes benefit from a prescribed brace. A podiatrist also treats related problems, including painful calluses or stress injuries, and monitors the response to care. Follow-up visits allow adjustments when symptoms persist or activity demands change. If you have symptoms of  excessive supination, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dwayne A. Lay, DPM from Elite Foot and Ankle. 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 Canton, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ankle pain develops when the bones, joints, or surrounding tissues become injured or irritated. The ankle supports body weight and allows the foot to move while standing and walking. Because the joint handles repeated pressure, many problems can cause discomfort. Ankle sprains occur when the joint twists and stretches the tissues that provide support. Repeated strains also irritate the muscles or tendons around the ankle. Other causes involve changes within the joint or an injury to a bone. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and stiffness. Some patients also notice tenderness or difficulty placing weight on the affected foot. Ankle pain limits movement and makes walking or climbing stairs uncomfortable. The location and severity of symptoms can provide important information about the cause.

A podiatrist evaluates ankle pain by examining the foot and ankle and asking how the symptoms developed. An evaluation includes checking joint movement, areas of tenderness, and ankle stability. The podiatrist also observes how the patient stands and walks to identify changes caused by discomfort. Imaging tests provides additional information when a closer look at the bones or joint is appropriate. Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the ankle pain. A podiatrist can provide supportive devices that help stabilize the ankle and reduce harmful movement. Custom orthotics can improve foot support and pressure distribution. Professionally guided exercises can also help restore ankle flexibility and strength as part of a treatment plan.

Ankle pain affects balance and causes patients to change how they walk. Shifting weight away from the painful ankle can place added stress on other areas of the foot or leg. A podiatrist identifies these movement changes and develops a treatment plan focused on improving function. Care helps reduce painful stress, improve mobility, and support better ankle stability. Regular evaluations allow the podiatrist to monitor symptoms and adjust treatment as movement improves. Addressing the source of ankle pain supports more comfortable movement and helps patients return to normal activities. If you have ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Dwayne A. Lay, DPM from Elite Foot and Ankle. Our doctor 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 Canton, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

As people age, their feet undergo changes that can affect comfort, balance, and mobility. The skin may become harder and drier as collagen decreases. Changes can also occur in the muscles, joints, and soft tissues of the feet. The size and shape of the foot may change, which can affect how shoes fit. Foot pain is common among older adults and may make walking more difficult. Conditions such as diabetes, peripheral arterial disease, and nerve damage can create additional foot concerns. Arthritis may also contribute to pain or changes in foot structure, making regular elderly foot care important.

Foot problems in older adults are associated with reduced mobility and a greater risk of falls. Common concerns include thickened toenails, calluses, and corns. Dry skin, ulcers, and foot deformities may also be discovered during an examination. Some older adults have difficulty managing foot care because they cannot easily reach their feet. Footwear is important because feet can become broader with age. Shoes that do not fit properly are associated with foot pain and deformities. A professional foot examination can identify problems and can also evaluate circulation and sensation.

A podiatrist can provide foot care for older adults by examining the skin, nails, and structure of the feet. The evaluation may include checking circulation, sensation, and tenderness. A podiatrist can identify problems such as nail disorders or painful calluses and determine appropriate treatment. Foot ulcers and signs of infection require prompt professional attention. Podiatric care may also include recommendations for appropriate footwear or orthotics. Regular evaluation can help address foot problems that interfere with walking and support continued mobility as a person ages. If foot pain, skin changes, or difficulty walking is affecting daily life, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

If you need your feet checked, contact Dwayne A. Lay, DPM of Elite Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.

It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.

Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities. 

Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.

Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.

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

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet. It can cause itching, discoloration, and cracks in the skin. These changes often appear between the toes but can develop on other parts of the foot as well. The infection may cause skin to look dry or scaly, making it easy to confuse with other skin problems. Foot psoriasis can create similar symptoms, including scaling and discoloration. Because the two problems may look alike, an accurate diagnosis is important before treatment begins. Using the wrong treatment can allow symptoms to continue or become worse.

One important difference is that athlete’s foot is caused by a fungus, while psoriasis is related to the immune system. Athlete’s foot can also spread from one person to another, unlike psoriasis. The location and appearance of symptoms may provide clues, but these features do not always make the cause clear. Athlete’s foot often produces cracking or peeling between the toes. Psoriasis may affect other parts of the body in addition to the feet. When skin changes continue, or the diagnosis is uncertain, professional evaluation can help determine what is actually causing the problem.

A podiatrist can examine persistent skin changes on the feet and determine whether athlete’s foot or another condition may be responsible. Since fungal infections and psoriasis require different approaches, identifying the correct cause can guide appropriate care. A podiatrist may evaluate the location and appearance of affected skin while considering other symptoms. Further testing may be appropriate when the diagnosis is unclear. Professional care is especially valuable when itching, cracking, or discoloration continues despite previous treatment or begins interfering with comfort. Receiving the correct diagnosis can prevent unnecessary treatment and help address the underlying cause of the skin changes. If you have ongoing symptoms that may indicate athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

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 Dwayne A. Lay, DPM from Elite Foot and Ankle.  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 office located in Canton, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.