If you need a more accessible version of this website, click this button on the right.Switch to Accessible Site

159 North 3rd Street
Macclenny, Florida 32063

July 2023

Tuesday, 25 July 2023 00:00

Which Type of Orthotic Do I Need?

Orthotics are insoles that are worn in the shoes to provide additional support for the feet. They are used for different reasons, including overall foot health, abnormal foot structure, and various foot ailments. There are several kinds of orthotics to choose from. Orthotics that are prescribed by a podiatrist are designed to fit and correct an individual's unique foot and specific condition. They are made by taking an impression of the feet and can be successful in treating plantar fasciitis, flat feet, or heel spurs. Mass-produced inserts are referred to as prefabricated orthotics, and can fit a large range of foot types. They can be purchased in a pharmacy, and are available in numerous sizes and arch types. People who have mild foot pain may benefit from over-the-counter insoles, which may provide temporary relief. If you have any type of foot pain, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you to choose the right type of orthotics based on the cause of your foot pain.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Dr. John L. Coleman from Florida. Our doctor 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 Macclenny, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Foot Orthotics

Heel pain in children may be a sign of Sever’s disease, which is a foot condition that affects physically active young children and teenagers. While it can cause severe pain and discomfort and is considered to be the most common cause of heel pain in children, it generally does not cause long-term damage. Sever's disease is defined as an inflamed growth plate in the heel. This can happen from excessive force or overuse, resulting in heel pain. This plate is necessary for shaping the heel bone, in addition to producing tissue for proper growth. Some types of activities that can contribute to developing Sever’s disease include running, jumping, or standing for extended periods of time. It can affect basketball or soccer players, and gymnasts may also feel the effects of Sever’s disease. Common symptoms that are associated with Sever's disease can consist of a swollen and reddened heel, and it can be difficult to walk. Mild relief may happen when the offending activity is temporarily stopped and the foot is frequently elevated. If your child has heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose and treat Sever's disease. 

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Dr. John L. Coleman from Florida. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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

Read more about Sever's Disease
Tuesday, 11 July 2023 00:00

Education for Podiatrists

Podiatry is a field of medicine that specializes in the disorders and treatment of the feet and ankles. There are several painful conditions that can affect the feet, including plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, and ingrown toenails. There are various branches of podiatry that can range from performing foot surgery to working in a hospital or clinic setting. Interested candidates pursuing podiatry will go through an extensive education process. This can begin with obtaining a bachelor's degree, followed by completing a four-year program in a podiatric medical school. At this time, the student will earn a DPM, which is the abbreviation for a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree. A residency program begins after the DPM is obtained, and lasts for three years. This will give the student an opportunity to work in podiatry, in addition to learning pertinent information about medicine. If you think you may want to pursue a career in podiatry, it is suggested that you meet with this type of doctor who can answer any questions you may have.

If you are dealing with pain in your feet and ankles, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to contact Dr. John L. Coleman from Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine who diagnoses and treats conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Your podiatrist may specialize in a certain field such as sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics, and diabetic care. Podiatrists have the ability to become board certified through training, clinical experience, and then taking an exam.

What Do Podiatrists Do?

On a daily basis, a podiatrist may perform the following activities:

  • Diagnose foot ailments such as ulcers, tumors, fractures, etc.
  • Use innovative methods to treat conditions
  • Use corrective orthotics, casts, and strappings to correct deformities
  • Correct walking patterns and balance
  • Provide individual consultations to patients

It is very important that you take care of your feet. It’s easy to take having healthy feet for granted, however foot problems tend to be among the most common health conditions. Podiatrists can help diagnose and treat a variety of feet related conditions, so it is crucial that you visit one if you need assistance.

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

 

Read more about What is a Podiatrist?

Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.

Tuesday, 04 July 2023 00:00

Growth of Toenails

Learning about the biomechanics of the feet can be significantly beneficial for anyone who takes the health of their feet seriously. One aspect of the biomechanics of the feet that everyone ought to know about is the growth of the toenails. The toenails serve important functions, protecting the toes and providing a hard outer armor. There are six parts of the nail, including the root, nail bed, nail plate, eponychium, paronychium and hyponychium. Compared to fingernails, toenails grow at a slower rate. For example, it can take 12 to 18 months for a completely new toenail to grow from the root of the nail to the tip. If an individual has poor circulation, this might further impede toenail growth. If you are someone that is interested in learning more about the toenails, it is recommended that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist today.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. John L. Coleman from Florida. 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 Macclenny, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about The Importance of Biomechanics in Podiatry
Connect With Us