Using Biomechanical Exams to Help Prevent Pressure Injuries

A thorough biomechanical evaluation plays an important role in preventing pressure injuries, especially in individuals at higher risk. This type of assessment looks at how a person moves, stands, and distributes weight through their feet and lower limbs. Imbalances, abnormal gait patterns, or joint limitations can increase pressure on certain areas, leading to skin breakdown and ulcers over time. By examining posture, range of motion, muscle strength, and foot alignment, podiatrists can identify factors that contribute to uneven pressure. Addressing these issues through customized footwear, orthotics, or targeted exercises can improve balance and relieve stress on vulnerable areas. Regular biomechanical assessments are a proactive way to protect skin integrity and prevent wounds, particularly for those with diabetes or limited mobility. If you are concerned about pressure injuries, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for a complete evaluation, which can help lower your risk and support better foot health.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Lexington Foot and Ankle Center, PSC. 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 offices located in Harrodsburg, Frankfort, Georgetown, and Lexington, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about The Importance of Biomechanics in Podiatry

Recovery From Foot and Ankle Injuries for Active Lifestyles

Foot and ankle injuries are frequent in athletes, whether from high-impact sports like basketball or repetitive activities such as running. Sprains, fractures, tendonitis, and overuse injuries can sideline even the most dedicated athletes, if not properly managed. Effective treatment begins with an accurate diagnosis. A detailed assessment of how the injury occurred, along with a physical exam and imaging when necessary, helps identify the extent of the damage. Early intervention is key. Rest, compression, and elevation are often the first steps taken to reduce pain and swelling. Supportive devices, such as braces or orthotics, may be recommended to protect the injured area and prevent further damage. Target exercises focus on restoring strength, flexibility, and balance to the foot and ankle. A gradual return to sport is important to avoid setbacks. To prevent future injuries, athletes may need to adjust footwear, training routines, or technique. If you have an active lifestyle and have incurred a foot or ankle injury, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plan.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Lexington Foot and Ankle Center, PSC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Achilles Tendinitis
  • Achilles Tendon Rupture
  • Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Harrodsburg, Frankfort, Georgetown, and Lexington, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Sports Related Foot And Ankle Injuries

How to Identify and Treat a Corn

Corns are hard, thickened areas of skin that typically form on the toes or feet, often with a cone-like shape pointing inward. They develop due to friction and pressure, commonly from wearing ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or repetitive activities like walking or running. The constant pressure causes the skin to thicken as a protective response, leading to pain and discomfort, especially while walking. While home treatments may offer temporary relief, professional care from a podiatrist is often necessary for persistent or painful corns. A podiatrist can remove corns safely and effectively using specialized instruments, reducing the risk of infection or further damage to the skin. This type of doctor can also assess your foot structure, gait, and footwear, identifying underlying causes like bunions, hammertoes, or misalignment. Afterward, they can recommend custom orthotics, proper footwear, or other treatment to prevent future corns. If you have corns on the feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and safe treatment.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of Lexington Foot and Ankle Center, PSC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

  • Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
  • Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
  • Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Harrodsburg, Frankfort, Georgetown, and Lexington, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Corns: What Are They, and How Do You Get Rid of Them

Running Shoes for Comfort and Performance

Selecting the right running shoes is essential for comfort, injury prevention, and optimal performance. The type of running surface plays a significant role in shoe selection. Road running shoes provide cushioning for hard pavement, while trail running shoes offer grip and support on uneven terrain. The kind of running also matters, as long-distance runners need shoes with extra cushioning, whereas sprinters benefit from lightweight, responsive designs. Personal weight should also be considered, since heavier runners may require additional support and shock absorption to reduce impact on the joints. Proper fit, arch support, and flexibility further enhance comfort and performance. Trying on different options and assessing how they feel during movement can help you find the best pair. If you have sustained a foot injury from wearing the wrong running shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you toward the best shoes for your style of running.

If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Lexington Foot and Ankle Center, PSC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.

  • Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
  • Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
  • Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Harrodsburg, Frankfort, Georgetown, and Lexington, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

Connect With Us