The biomechanics of the ankle involve a complex system of bones, ligaments, and tendons, that allow the foot to move smoothly when walking, running, and standing. The ankle and foot work together to provide balance, absorb shock, and adapt to different surfaces. When this motion becomes uneven or strained, it can lead to sprains, tendon irritation, or joint instability. Poor alignment, overuse, or sudden changes in activity can disrupt normal movement patterns. People may notice pain, swelling, or a feeling of weakness when the ankle is not functioning properly. A podiatrist can evaluate gait, assess joint motion, and identify areas of imbalance that may be contributing to injury. Treatment may include supportive devices or targeted care to restore proper function. If you have ankle pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief options.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact David Carmack, DPM from Texas. 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 Marble Falls, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet. It may lead to itching, peeling, redness, and painful blisters. The infection often develops between the toes or along the sole of the foot where moisture becomes trapped. In some cases, fluid-filled blisters can form and cause burning, tenderness, or cracking of the skin that becomes uncomfortable while walking or wearing shoes. The affected skin may appear flaky, scaly, or white from excess moisture. Scratching can increase irritation or lead to secondary infection. Athlete’s foot spreads easily in warm, damp environments like locker rooms, swimming pools, and shared showers. Wearing sweaty socks or tight shoes for long periods of time may also increase the risk of infection. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition, determine the severity of the fungal infection, and recommend the most appropriate treatment. Care may include antifungal medication, drying treatments, and methods  to prevent the infection from returning. If you have athlete’s foot symptoms, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective treatment solutions.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with David Carmack, DPM from Texas. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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

Sever’s disease is a common cause of heel pain in active growing children. It occurs when the growth plate in the heel becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress. This condition most often affects children and adolescents during growth spurts when the heel bone grows faster than surrounding muscles and tendons. Symptoms include heel pain during activity, tenderness, and limping after exercise. Causes include repetitive impact from running or jumping sports, and tight calf muscles. Risk factors include participation in high-impact activities, poor footwear, and rapid growth. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition, recommend stretching programs, provide heel support, and guide activity modification. If your active child has heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide effective relief and management tips.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see David Carmack, DPM from Texas. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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

A heel spur is a bony growth that develops on the underside of the heel, often associated with inflammation of the foot muscles and ligaments. It commonly forms over time due to repetitive stress and strain on the plantar fascia, the strong band of tissue running from the heels to the toes. Symptoms include heel pain that may feel sharp or aching and is often worse after periods of rest or when first standing. Risk factors include high impact activities, sudden increases in exercise intensity, wearing improper footwear, and prolonged standing. Without proper care, discomfort may persist and affect mobility. A podiatrist can help by diagnosing the condition, reducing inflammation, and recommending supportive treatments. If you have heel pain and it has become difficult to complete daily activities, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can guide you toward effective relief solutions.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact David Carmack, DPM from Texas. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

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