Foot and ankle anatomy plays a vital role in movement, balance, and daily comfort. The structure includes joints, tarsal bones, metatarsals, and phalanges that work together to support body weight and allow smooth motion. Ligaments connect these bones and help create stability by guiding proper alignment during walking and standing. When an imbalance occurs, stress may be placed on certain joints or tissues, leading to foot pain, inflammation, or difficulty with mobility. Problems such as heel pain, arch strain, and joint discomfort can develop over time. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can assess foot structure, identify imbalance, and provide treatment options such as custom orthotics, supportive care, or other targeted treatments. 

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Nashville Family Foot Care. Our practitioners 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 Nashville, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s disease is a common source of heel discomfort in growing children, especially those who are active in sports. The condition develops when the growth plate at the back of the heel becomes irritated by repeated impact or tight calf muscles. A child may complain of soreness during running or jumping, and the pain often improves with rest, but returns quickly once activity resumes. Swelling or tenderness at the back of the heel can appear, and some children begin to walk on their toes to avoid pressure. Although the name sounds serious, the condition improves with proper guidance and activity adjustments. Wearing supportive footwear and gentle stretching can also help ease symptoms. If your child has recurring heel pain or limps after activity, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and care plan.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from Nashville Family Foot Care. Our practitioners 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 Nashville, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Cuboid syndrome occurs when the small cuboid bone on the outer side of the mid-foot shifts slightly out of position or becomes irritated, leading to sharp or aching discomfort. It is seen most often in active individuals, including dancers, runners, and people who spend long periods of time on their feet, because repetitive motion and sudden twists can place extra stress on the outer foot. Others may develop it after an ankle sprain, as the injury can disrupt normal alignment. Symptoms include pain along the outer mid-foot, difficulty pushing off during walking, tenderness when pressing the area, and a feeling of weakness or instability. Treatment focuses on restoring alignment, reducing irritation, and supporting the foot as it heals. A podiatrist can perform targeted manipulation, provide taping or padding, and recommend footwear or inserts that improve stability. If outer foot pain continues to interfere with movement, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat cuboid syndrome.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with one of our podiatrists from Nashville Family Foot Care. Our practitioners will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

• Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
• Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
• Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

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

Wearing high heels later in life adds pressure on the forefoot and increases strain on the toes and ankles, which can make balance more difficult and raise the chance of falls. When a heel sits too far back on the shoe and does not line up well with the leg bones, the foot is not properly supported and the ankle can become unstable. A heel positioned more directly under the leg helps improve balance, reduces wobbling, and lowers the chance of injuries. Choosing a shorter or wider heel eases pressure on the ball of the foot, and avoiding very narrow styles for long-term standing helps limit irritation. High heels also shift weight forward, which can lead to aching or burning beneath the ball of the foot. A podiatrist can offer guidance on safer footwear choices and prescribe orthotic inserts as needed. If you are experiencing foot pain or balance problems from wearing high heels, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Nashville Family Foot Care. Our practitioners can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

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