Supination occurs when the body’s weight is placed along the outside of the foot during walking or running, and excessive supination can lead to strain on the ankles, feet, and toes. People with high arches or inherited structural differences in the legs and feet are more likely to experience excessive supination. It increases the risk of ankle sprains, stress fractures, plantar fasciitis, and other painful foot problems. Wearing  improper footwear, poor body alignment, and previous injuries can also contribute to an unstable gait. A podiatrist can diagnose excessive supination by analyzing shoe wear patterns, conducting a gait analysis, and evaluating foot structure. Treatment options include prescribing custom orthotics to support the arch and improve foot alignment. In some cases, surgery may be suggested to correct severe structural problems. Choosing appropriate footwear with cushioning and stability features can also be part of the overall plan. If you have foot pain related to your gait, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Richard Silverstein from Union Foot Care. 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 Havre de Grace, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Diabetic foot complications are serious concerns that can greatly affect quality of life if not properly managed. One major issue is neuropathy, where damaged nerves lead to a loss of sensation in the feet, making it difficult to detect injuries. Poor circulation is another common problem, limiting the blood flow needed for healing and increasing the risk of infections. Skin changes, such as dryness and cracking, create openings for bacteria to enter, further raising the chance of complications. Ulcers may develop on pressure points and can become deep wounds that are slow to heal. Additionally, infections are a major risk and can quickly spread if untreated. If you have diabetes, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious condition as it affects your feet.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Richard Silverstein from Union Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

A broken foot refers to a fracture in one or more of the bones in the foot, which may result from trauma, overuse, or sudden stress. Common causes include falls, car accidents, sports injuries, or dropping heavy objects on the foot. Stress fractures may develop gradually from repetitive activity, especially in athletes or individuals with high-impact routines. A broken foot typically causes pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. Diagnosis begins with a physical examination, during which a podiatrist assesses the area for tenderness, deformity, or limited motion. X-rays and other imaging tests are used to confirm the presence and extent of the fracture. In some cases, advanced imaging like a CT or MRI scan may be required. If you have reason to believe you have fractured your foot, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can provide treatment.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Richard Silverstein from Union Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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

When an ingrown toenail becomes painful, infected, or keeps coming back, a podiatrist may recommend surgery to fix the problem. One common procedure is a partial nail removal, where the podiatrist carefully removes the edge of the nail that is growing into the skin. To help prevent the nail from growing back in the same way, a chemical may be applied to the base of the nail to stop regrowth in that area. This often leads to long-term relief. In more severe cases, especially when the problem keeps returning or involves swelling at the base of the nail, the entire toenail may need to be removed. This procedure may be necessary when a new toenail begins to grow underneath an old one, instead of pushing it forward like it normally should. If you have an extremely stubborn or painful ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Richard Silverstein of Union Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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

A broken toe might seem minor, but it can be surprisingly painful and disruptive. Toe fractures happen from direct impact, like stubbing a toe on furniture, dropping something heavy on it, or even excessive stress from repetitive movements. There are different types of toe fractures. A stress fracture develops over time from repeated strain, common in runners and athletes. A non-displaced fracture means the bone has cracked but remains aligned, while a displaced fracture occurs when the bone shifts out of place. A comminuted fracture involves multiple breaks in the same bone, and an open fracture means the bone has pierced the skin, requiring immediate medical attention. Treatment depends on severity, ranging from taping the injured toe to its neighbor for stability to wearing a stiff-soled shoe. Severe cases may require a splint or even surgery to ensure proper healing. If you have severe pain from a broken toe, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Richard Silverstein from Union Foot Care. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

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