March 2025

Overpronation occurs when the foot rolls excessively inward with each step, placing abnormal stress on the arches, ankles, and toes. Treatment for overpronation primarily involves relieving this pressure to reduce pain or discomfort in the feet and ankles. Wearing supportive footwear, featuring firm cushioning around the heel and midfoot, can help limit unnecessary foot motion and stabilize the arch. Custom orthotics may be prescribed by a podiatrist to offer individualized foot support, effectively aligning and stabilizing the feet and ankles. In moderate cases, kinesiology taping or braces are beneficial in providing extra support, improving foot alignment, and preventing further pronation. In rare instances, severe overpronation due to flat feet or structural damage might require surgery. Such procedures typically involve reconstructing or realigning foot bones and tendons to stabilize the arch, correct the foot's alignment, and relieve symptoms. If you suspect you have a pronation problem, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Associates in Podiatry, PC. Our doctors 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 offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition resulting from damage to the peripheral nerves, which connect the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body. This condition often causes tingling, numbness, and burning sensations, particularly in the feet. Over time, it can lead to muscle weakness, loss of coordination, and heightened sensitivity to touch or pain. Common causes include diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, infections, certain medications, and physical injuries. Poor blood flow and prolonged high blood sugar in diabetic patients can worsen nerve damage, making early intervention vital. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and addressing the underlying cause. Medications, targeted exercises, and lifestyle changes, such as maintaining healthy blood sugar levels or quitting smoking, can slow progression and improve quality of life. If you suspect peripheral neuropathy, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and personalized care.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with one of our podiatrists from Associates in Podiatry, PC. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.