Drop foot is a condition where lifting the front of the foot becomes difficult, leading to dragging toes and changes in walking pattern. Specific exercises can support muscle activation and nerve communication involved in ankle and toe movement when guided by a medical professional. These exercises focus on strengthening muscles that lift the foot, improving ankle control, and enhancing balance to reduce fall risk. Gentle resistance movements, controlled ankle lifts, and coordinated gait drills help retrain proper motion. Stretching tight calf and foot muscles can improve foot positioning during walking. A podiatrist identifies the underlying cause, evaluates nerve and muscle function, and creates a structured treatment plan that may include supervised exercises, bracing recommendations, and ongoing monitoring to prevent secondary foot problems. If you have symptoms of drop foot, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Whitestone Podiatry PC. 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 office located in Whitestone, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Choosing the right running shoe plays an important role in foot comfort and preventing injuries. Start by considering where you run, as road, trail, and treadmill surfaces place different demands on the feet. Proper fit is essential, with enough room in the toe box to prevent pressure on the toes, while still holding the heel securely. Cushioning should match your body weight and running style, because too little may increase impact stress and too much can affect stability. Pay attention to shoe flexibility and how the sole bends, since this influences foot motion. Replacing running shoes is important because worn materials reduce protection for the feet. A podiatrist can evaluate your foot structure, gait, and running habits to recommend features that support movement and reduce strain. If you experience foot pain after running, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with one of our podiatrists from Whitestone Podiatry PC. Our doctors can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.

Foot Health: The Differences between Walking & Running Shoes

There are great ways to stay in shape: running and walking are two great exercises to a healthy lifestyle. It is important to know that running shoes and walking shoes are not interchangeable. There is a key difference on how the feet hit the ground when someone is running or walking. This is why one should be aware that a shoe is designed differently for each activity.

You may be asking yourself what the real differences are between walking and running shoes and the answers may shock you.

Differences

Walking doesn’t involve as much stress or impact on the feet as running does. However, this doesn’t mean that you should be any less prepared. When you’re walking, you land on your heels and have your foot roll forward. This rolling motion requires additional support to the feet.

Flexibility – Walking shoes are designed to have soft, flexible soles. This allows the walker to push off easily with each step.

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

An ankle sprain can weaken muscles and reduce joint control, making exercises an important part of recovery. Gentle range of motion movements, like slowly drawing the alphabet with the toes, can help restore mobility without placing excess stress on healing tissues. Stretching the calf muscles may reduce stiffness around the ankle and improve flexibility while walking. As strength improves, controlled exercises like heel raises help rebuild stability by engaging the muscles that support the ankle joint. Balance activities, including standing on one foot, are often used to improve coordination and reduce the risk of repeat sprains. These exercises should progress gradually, since pushing too quickly may delay healing or cause further injury. A podiatrist can evaluate ankle stability and recommend exercises that match the stage of recovery, while monitoring for ligament damage or joint problems. If you have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, treatment, and exercise options.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact one of our podiatrists from Whitestone Podiatry PC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

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

A bunion is a bony area that develops at the base of the big toe when the joint becomes misaligned. This condition causes the big toe to shift toward the smaller toes, leading to visible deformity and discomfort. Risk factors include genetics, wearing improper footwear, foot structure, and repetitive stress on the forefoot. Common symptoms include pain and soreness around the joint, numbness or burning sensations, redness, and swelling. Many people notice a painful bump at the base of the affected toe that worsens with walking or wearing tight shoes. A podiatrist can help by evaluating foot alignment and determining the severity of the bunion. Treatment options may include footwear recommendations, padding, orthotics, and pain management strategies. If bunion pain or irritation is affecting your mobility or quality of life, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions. 

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Whitestone Podiatry PC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Podiatrists often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your provider.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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