Orthotics are defined as devices that are inserted in the shoes designed to help to correct foot abnormalities. Custom-made orthotics are tailored to a patient's specific needs, and can be effective in providing comfort as daily activities are completed. People who have flat feet or high arches may be candidates for orthotics, in addition to patients who have hammertoe or bunions. Orthotics can alter the angles of how the foot strikes the ground or absorbs shock, and may help to improve balance. Podiatrists may consider orthotics to be a viable option in correcting foot and ankle conditions before considering foot surgery. It is important for people who are diabetic to ensure their orthotics fit perfectly, possibly helping to prevent additional unwanted foot issues. If you would like to know if wearing orthotics is an option for you, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can guide you toward making the right decision. 

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact the foot specialists from Table Mountain Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Wheat Ridge, CO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Skin is one of the most important organs in the human body. Taking care of the skin covering the feet can be an essential element of maintaining proper foot health. Patients often wonder why dead skin can build up on the feet. There are many different potential explanations for dead skin build-up. For example, when the feet are subject to persistent pounding and friction, this can ultimately lead to dead skin cell build up. Importantly, when the feet are dehydrated and unmoisturized, this can exacerbate dead skin accumulation. When dead skin cells build up over time, it can be important to gently remove that dead skin. An individual might go about doing this in consultation with their podiatrist through exfoliation with a pumice stone. A patient might even use an electric callus remover. If you are someone that struggles with dead skin cell build up on the feet, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today for more information.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact the foot specialists from Table Mountain Foot and Ankle. 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 Wheat Ridge, CO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

If you experience pain between the third and fourth toes, it may be caused by a condition known as Morton’s neuroma. It is also referred to as interdigital neuroma or plantar neuroma. You may be feeling numbness, burning, or aching in the area. These symptoms are the result of a thickening in tissue that surrounds a nerve near the toes. Morton’s neuroma is frequently experienced by women who wear high-heeled shoes with pointy toes. A frequently reported symptom is the feeling of a lump in the shoe near the ball of the foot. Adding a cushioned shoe insert and giving the foot a quick massage can sometimes alleviate the pain. A tingling sensation between the toes, known as paresthesia, also may develop as the result of Morton’s neuroma. Wearing shoes with a wider toe box can also help alleviate this. However, if the pain in the ball of the foot worsens whenever you put weight on it, it may be time to see a foot doctor for an exam. It is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose the cause of the pain and offer treatment options.  

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact the foot specialists of Table Mountain Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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