The plantar fascia is a band of connective tissue running from the heel to the ball of the foot. Inflammation of the plantar fascia occurs when this tissue is overstretched. This causes tiny tears to develop, particularly near the insertion site at the heel (at the medial calcaneal tuberosity). When at rest, our body works… Continue reading When Heel Pain is Not Plantar Fasciitis

The ideal situation is one where a patient is experiencing pain, the practitioner prescribes an orthotic, this orthotic relieves their pain and everyone lives happily ever after. However, tweaks and adjustments need to be made quite often. This is the nature of creating a custom- made, handcrafted device that needs to be comfortable and biomechanically… Continue reading Orthotic Adjustments

What is it?   Talipes equinus deformity is a condition in which the foot is held in a plantarflexed position. The patient will lack the ability to dorsiflex their foot up toward the leg. Commonly, this is due to tightness in the Achilles tendon, the soleus muscles, or gastrocnemium muscle. Other causes can be a… Continue reading Equinus Deformity

Patient: Female, 55 years old, 140 lbs   Chief complaint   In our second case of the season, our patient complains of pain in the third and fourth metatarsal heads. She experiences pain in her right foot only.   Examination Findings   Moderate hallux abducto valgus deformity Diffuse hyperkeratosis sub second metatarsal B/L Deviated and… Continue reading Case of the Season #2

  Hallux Limitus is a condition causing inflammation and soreness of the big toe, accompanied by restriction of movement. If untreated, it can lead to a more severe position of complete rigidity. Fortunately, treatment options are simple and straightforward once we understand the underlying biomechanical processes taking place.   Biomechanical Principles   In this condition,… Continue reading Hallux Limitus

Patient: Male, 35 years old, 5’9″, 190 lbs   History and chief complaint   Patient’s feet have always bothered him, and he has “flat feet”. He has been treated by various practitioners and has been prescribed orthotics, but none of them were tolerable. Over the past 10 years he has developed persistent pain behind his… Continue reading Case of the Season #1

  Shin splints are a painful injury, common among athletes, soldiers and dancers. They are one of a number of injuries caused by repetitive overuse of leg muscles. Many of those who have sustained injury are unaware of the causes and proper treatment. There are two ways to look at shin splints: clinically and practically.… Continue reading Shin Splints