Pronation and supination describe how the feet move while walking. Pronation occurs when the foot rolls slightly inward after the heel touches the ground. This movement helps absorb shock and spread body weight more evenly. With supination, the foot rolls outward and places more pressure on the outer edge of the foot. A small amount of both movements is normal, but too much can lead to pain and balance problems. Excessive pronation can place stress on the arches, heels, and ankles. Too much supination is more common in people with high arches and can reduce the foot’s ability to absorb impact. Signs of gait problems include uneven shoe wear, foot fatigue, and pain in the ankles or heels. A podiatrist can examine how your feet move while walking and recommend supportive shoes, custom orthotics, or other treatment options. If you have gait problems that are causing pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. 

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Ankita Patel, DPM from All Pro Foot and Ankle. 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 Swedesboro, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Babies do not always need shoes right away, but once they begin standing and walking, proper footwear becomes important for healthy development. Early shoes should be lightweight with flexible soles that allow natural movement. A correct fit is essential, as tight shoes can restrict growth and lead to discomfort or changes in foot shape. Non-skid soles help provide stability as babies learn balance and coordination. When shoes are too stiff or poorly fitted, they may interfere with normal walking patterns and cause strain on small joints. Parents may notice redness, fussiness, or uneven steps if there is a problem. A podiatrist can assess foot development, ensure proper fit, and recommend appropriate shoe types for each stage. If your child has foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment tips and guide you on what type of shoes to purchase.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Ankita Patel, DPM of All Pro Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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

An ankle sprain occurs when strong bands of tissue, called ligaments, stretch or tear after the ankle twists or rolls. Common causes of ankle sprains include falls, sports injuries, or stepping awkwardly on uneven ground. Weak ankle muscles and previous ankle injuries increase the risk of another sprain. Doctors classify ankle sprains into three grades based on severity. A Grade 1 sprain is mild and includes slight stretching of the ligament, with minor swelling and pain. A Grade 2 sprain is moderate and includes a partial tear, bruising, swelling, and trouble walking. A Grade 3 sprain is severe and includes a complete ligament tear, severe pain, major swelling, and ankle instability. A podiatrist can examine the ankle and order imaging to check for fractures. Depending on the results, the proper treatment to restore strength and stability is provided. If you have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment solutions.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Ankita Patel, DPM from All Pro Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Swedesboro, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet. It may lead to itching, peeling, redness, and painful blisters. The infection often develops between the toes or along the sole of the foot where moisture becomes trapped. In some cases, fluid-filled blisters can form and cause burning, tenderness, or cracking of the skin that becomes uncomfortable while walking or wearing shoes. The affected skin may appear flaky, scaly, or white from excess moisture. Scratching can increase irritation or lead to secondary infection. Athlete’s foot spreads easily in warm, damp environments like locker rooms, swimming pools, and shared showers. Wearing sweaty socks or tight shoes for long periods of time may also increase the risk of infection. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition, determine the severity of the fungal infection, and recommend the most appropriate treatment. Care may include antifungal medication, drying treatments, and methods  to prevent the infection from returning. If you have athlete’s foot symptoms, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective treatment solutions.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Ankita Patel, DPM from All Pro Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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