What Can Shockwave Therapy Be Used For?

Patients who undergo shockwave therapy may notice how simple and effective this type of treatment can be. It is administered by sending wave pulses to the affected area of the foot, and this may be helpful in reducing existing inflammation. Shockwave therapy can be used in treating specific foot conditions that can include Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, or ligament injuries. It is known to stimulate the formation of new blood vessels, which is helpful in promoting healing. The benefit of choosing this type of treatment can include the short amount of time necessary to complete the treatments. The need for surgery may even be eliminated. If you would like additional information on how shockwave therapy can treat certain foot conditions, please confer with a podiatrist.

Shockwave therapy is a treatment commonly used to treat various injuries and conditions, particularly plantar fasciitis in the feet. To learn more, consult with the foot specialists from Academy Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy is a new treatment option designed to treat bone conditions such as tennis elbow, shoulder pain, and others. Shockwave therapy uses high intensity sound waves that are directed to the affected tissues of the body with pinpoint accuracy. The effects are very beneficial, leading to a production of collagen fibers, eliminating inflammation.

Who Benefits from Shockwave?

Shockwave is recommended for patients suffering from heel pain and associated problems. Heel pain is a common condition which can be caused by obesity, overexertion, and spending a substantial amount of time on hard floors with your feet exposed and unsupported.

Fast and Easy

The therapy is actually a simple process that can leave patients feeling better the very next day. Shockwave therapy is not as dramatic as it sounds. It enables more blood flow to effected areas, addressing the source of the problem and allowing treatment to last for a long time.

Treatment & Recovery Time

Shockwave treatment will enable your feet to recover quickly. This is especially important since surgery is not required. It is cost effective and does not require the use of anesthesia. This treatment is a better option to surgery, since it is proven safe.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Southlake, Keller (Fort Worth), Hurst, North Richland Hills, Flower Mound, Argyle, and Denton, TX. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Treating Heel Pain with Shockwave Therapy

How Foot Bones Function During Running

The bones of the foot play a critical role in running by acting as a spring that stores and releases energy with each step. As the foot strikes the ground, the arches compress to absorb shock and dissipate energy, protecting the joints and soft tissues from excessive stress. During push off, the bones and ligaments work together to release stored energy, propelling the body forward efficiently. Research shows that the foot contributes a significant proportion of the total energy return during running, highlighting its importance in performance and injury prevention. A podiatrist can help by analyzing gait, prescribing orthotics, and providing strategies to optimize foot function. If you have foot pain from running, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on practical running form strategies. 

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact the foot specialists from Academy Foot and Ankle Specialists. 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 Southlake, Keller (Fort Worth), Hurst, North Richland Hills, Flower Mound, Argyle, and Denton, TX. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Stretches That Ease Plantar Fasciitis Pain

Foot pain from plantar fasciitis often stems from tightness in a band of tissue that runs from the heel to the toes, placing strain on the arch and heel area. Stretching is an important way to reduce the tension and pain from plantar fasciitis. Calf stretches, performed while standing with one foot behind the other and the heel pressed to the floor, help release tightness that pulls on the heel bone. Seated stretches that involve gently pulling the toes upward or using a towel under the arches can directly lengthen the plantar fascia and support healing. These movements improve flexibility in the feet and ankles, reduce inflammation, and may lessen the frequency of flare-ups. A podiatrist can examine the cause of your heel pain, recommend effective stretching routines, and provide additional treatment. If you have foot and heel pain from plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

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 the foot specialists from Academy Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctors 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 doctors 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 Southlake, Keller (Fort Worth), Hurst, North Richland Hills, Flower Mound, Argyle, and Denton, TX. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Possible Links Between Kidney Disease and Gout

Gout is a painful type of arthritis that commonly affects the feet, most often the big toe. It can cause intense swelling, redness, and tenderness. Studies suggest that gout and kidney disease are closely linked, as both involve high levels of uric acid in the body. When kidney function declines, uric acid may not be removed efficiently. This allows crystals to build up in the joints of the feet and ankles, leading to excruciating flare-ups. Recurrent gout attacks may also increase the likelihood of kidney complications over time. Shared risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity can raise the chances of developing both conditions. A podiatrist can conduct tests to see whether foot pain is caused by gout. Treatment can help to manage joint damage, decrease discomfort, and preserve mobility in the feet and ankles. If you have symptoms of gout, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact the foot specialists from Academy Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

  • Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
  • Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
  • Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
  • Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

  • Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
  • Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
  • Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
  • Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
  • Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
  • Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Southlake, Keller (Fort Worth), Hurst, North Richland Hills, Flower Mound, Argyle, and Denton, TX. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Everything You Need to Know About Gout

Let the Expert Treat Your Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails can be painful and can make wearing shoes or walking uncomfortable. Seek professional help if you believe you've developed an ingrown toenail and be treated safely. 

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