Items filtered by date: October 2022

Midfoot arthritis affects the foot and is caused when the cartilage in the foot begins to wear down. Without the cushioning of cartilage, the midfoot joint bones start to rub together when one moves which can cause pain. Usually, midfoot arthritis develops slowly and worsens over time. The primary symptom of this type of arthritis is pain felt in the middle of the foot. The pain can worsen upon arising or after standing or walking for a prolonged time. One can also experience difficulty walking or a visible bump on the top of the foot that appears bony. In most cases, midfoot arthritis can be treated non-surgically. Lifestyle changes including activity modification, doing exercises to strengthen the surrounding joints and muscles, losing weight, taking pain medication, wearing proper footwear, and using walking aids can help. If the pain persists, surgery might be needed. If you feel pain in your midfoot, see a podiatrist who will be able to diagnose the cause and provide appropriate treatment options.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Philip K. Schrumpf, DPM from Active Feet Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

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

Midfoot arthritis affects the foot and is caused when the cartilage in the foot begins to wear down. Without the cushioning of cartilage, the midfoot joint bones start to rub together when one moves which can cause pain. Usually, midfoot arthritis develops slowly and worsens over time. The primary symptom of this type of arthritis is pain felt in the middle of the foot. The pain can worsen upon arising or after standing or walking for a prolonged time. One can also experience difficulty walking or a visible bump on the top of the foot that appears bony. In most cases, midfoot arthritis can be treated non-surgically. Lifestyle changes including activity modification, doing exercises to strengthen the surrounding joints and muscles, losing weight, taking pain medication, wearing proper footwear, and using walking aids can help. If the pain persists, surgery might be needed. If you feel pain in your midfoot, see a podiatrist who will be able to diagnose the cause and provide appropriate treatment options.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Philip K. Schrumpf, DPM from Active Feet Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

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

The feet are an interesting and complex part of the body. Each foot is composed of 26 bones and several muscles, ligaments, and tendons that work together to provide mobility and balance to the body. Additionally, the feet carry the weight of the body, and are designed to absorb shock while running and walking. Research has indicated there are three types of foot postures. Humans and animals have the foot structure that is known as plantigrade, and is observed as the entire foot striking the ground while walking. The digitigrade posture is seen in dogs and cats, and is noticed as only the toes are on the ground while walking or running. Animals that run, such as horses, possess the unguligrade posture, and this is seen as a few of the toes touching the ground while running. The human foot has three parts, consisting of the hindfoot, midfoot, and forefoot. Within each foot are bones that are divided into three categories, including tarsus, metatarsus, and phalanges. There are many more parts that make up each foot, and if you would like to know more about how the feet are structured, please confer with a podiatrist. 

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Philip K. Schrumpf, DPM from Active Feet Clinic. 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 Missoula, MT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A good shoe should fit the shape of your foot. Poorly fitting shoes can cause all sorts of foot problems, including corns and bunions. With properly fitted shoes, your toes should be able to wiggle comfortably without hanging off the front of the shoe. Your heel should fit snugly and securely without feeling like it is slipping up and down. It is best to get your feet measured since one foot is usually larger than the other. Try shoes on both feet. Shoes should fit the larger foot. Pay attention to whether the shoes rub or pinch anywhere. Shoes should have at least ¼ inch between the longest toe and the end of the shoe for proper fit. For shoes with heels, make sure the toes lie together and are not cramped from wearing too high of a heel. If you plan to wear socks or stockings with shoes, try them on with those foot coverings. If you have questions about the proper fit of shoes, consult with a podiatrist who can help you.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Philip K. Schrumpf, DPM from Active Feet Clinic. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

• Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
• Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
• Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
• Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

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

A good shoe should fit the shape of your foot. Poorly fitting shoes can cause all sorts of foot problems, including corns and bunions. With properly fitted shoes, your toes should be able to wiggle comfortably without hanging off the front of the shoe. Your heel should fit snugly and securely without feeling like it is slipping up and down. It is best to get your feet measured since one foot is usually larger than the other. Try shoes on both feet. Shoes should fit the larger foot. Pay attention to whether the shoes rub or pinch anywhere. Shoes should have at least ¼ inch between the longest toe and the end of the shoe for proper fit. For shoes with heels, make sure the toes lie together and are not cramped from wearing too high of a heel. If you plan to wear socks or stockings with shoes, try them on with those foot coverings. If you have questions about the proper fit of shoes, consult with a podiatrist who can help you.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Philip K. Schrumpf, DPM from Active Feet Clinic. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

• Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
• Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
• Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
• Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

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

People who have gained weight may be concerned that their feet have gotten larger. Weight gain generally affects the overall body, and the feet are no exception. They may increase in length and width, and larger shoes often need to be purchased, which may be bothersome to some people. However, the feet will feel better when comfortable shoes are worn. It is suggested that a healthy diet be consumed, which may start the process of weight reduction, including in the feet. Drinking plenty of water daily, and implementing a gentle exercise routine may accelerate the desired weight loss. Additionally, elevating the feet frequently may reduce excess fluid build-up. Research has shown it may be beneficial to purchase running shoes that are larger, which may help to accommodate the size of the feet as a result of increased blood flow while running. If you would like more information about obesity and how it can affect the feet, please confer with a podiatrist. 

Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact Philip K. Schrumpf, DPM from Active Feet Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Obesity and Your Feet

Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.

Problems & Complications

Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.

Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.

Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot. 

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

People who have gained weight may be concerned that their feet have gotten larger. Weight gain generally affects the overall body, and the feet are no exception. They may increase in length and width, and larger shoes often need to be purchased, which may be bothersome to some people. However, the feet will feel better when comfortable shoes are worn. It is suggested that a healthy diet be consumed, which may start the process of weight reduction, including in the feet. Drinking plenty of water daily, and implementing a gentle exercise routine may accelerate the desired weight loss. Additionally, elevating the feet frequently may reduce excess fluid build-up. Research has shown it may be beneficial to purchase running shoes that are larger, which may help to accommodate the size of the feet as a result of increased blood flow while running. If you would like more information about obesity and how it can affect the feet, please confer with a podiatrist. 

Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact Philip K. Schrumpf, DPM from Active Feet Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Obesity and Your Feet

Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.

Problems & Complications

Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.

Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.

Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot. 

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