27/05/2025
When something goes wrong with the foot our first most important task is figuring out why.
It would be so easy to focus on the location of the problem.
However, many foot conditions are caused by something away from of the location of pain.
A bunion or toes that curl are perfect examples of this.
These conditions of the forefoot are affected by the movements of the hindfoot and mid- foot.
For instance, A movement called pronation, where the arch turns inward, is the major culprit behind bunions and hammertoes.
It is mission critical for us to look at the entire foot both clinically and on an x-ray to make an accurate diagnosis.
Stabilizing and controlling the hindfoot and midfoot with the right shoes is a good starting point.
Beyond that, we prescribe custom orthotics to help treat conditions of the forefoot caused by movements of the hindfoot and midfoot.
On the same token, when pain occurs in the hindfoot or midfoot we often look to the leg for a possible cause.
Tight calf muscles, something many people are born with, is a major cause of several common foot conditions.
Wearing shoes with good support, your orthotics if you have them, and stretching your calf muscles are simple things anyone can do to prevent some food conditions.
Knowing where a condition comes from helps us zero in on preventative measures once we’ve eliminated the problem.
Since the toe bone is connected to the foot bone and the foot bone is connected to the ankle bone and the ankle bone is connected to the leg bone, they are all interrelated when it comes to foot problems.
Knowing these relationships is what sets us apart from all other healthcare professionals who treat feet.
To Healthy Feet,
West Coast Podiatry Center
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