The biomechanics of the foot and ankle are important for efficient movement, stability, and shock absorption. During walking, the foot moves through a cycle that begins with heel strike, where the heel contacts the ground, absorbing impact and distributing force through the arch. As the foot rolls forward, it enters midstance, a phase where the entire foot bears weight, allowing for balance and stability. In the final push-off phase, the toes lift off, propelling the body forward. The ankle joint, connecting the foot to the leg, allows up and down movement, while the subtalar joint below enables side to side motion. Ligaments and tendons provide structural support, and the arch acts as a spring, storing energy with each step. Proper biomechanics ensure efficient movement, protect joints from excess stress, and reduce injury risk, maintaining foot health over time. It is suggested that you visit a podiatrist to have a foot and ankle examination and gait analysis to ensure you have proper biomechanics enabling optimum comfort and mobility.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Jack A. Sasiene, DPM from Texas. 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 offices located in Texas City and Lake Jackson, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

​​Achilles tendinopathy is a condition marked by pain, stiffness, and swelling in the Achilles tendon, often caused by repetitive strain or overuse. The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, and it plays a critical role in walking, running, and jumping. Achilles tendinopathy typically occurs when there is an increase in activity intensity, wearing improper footwear, or inadequate warm-ups. Individuals at higher risk include athletes, runners, and middle-aged adults who engage in sudden or intense physical activity. Treatment focuses on reducing pain and inflammation, in addition to strengthening the tendon. In some cases, orthotics or heel lifts are recommended to relieve stress on the tendon. With consistent podiatric treatment, most patients experience reduced symptoms and improved function, although recovery may take several months depending on the severity of the condition. If you are experiencing Achilles pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Jack A. Sasiene, DPM of Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Texas City and Lake Jackson, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Peripheral neuropathy, is a condition where nerves outside the brain and spinal cord become damaged, commonly affecting the feet and ankles. This condition is often caused by diabetes, but factors such as infections, injuries, or vitamin deficiencies can also contribute. Neuropathy leads to a range of symptoms, including numbness, tingling, burning sensations, or sharp pain in the feet and ankles. As sensation diminishes, individuals may not notice minor injuries, such as cuts or blisters, which can lead to infections or ulcers, especially in diabetic patients. In more severe cases, muscle weakness and balance issues can develop, increasing the risk of falls and mobility problems. Proper management, including blood sugar control, wearing supportive shoes, and regular foot inspections, is important for preventing complications. If you have neuropathy in your feet, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can provide a proper diagnosis and offer you strategies to protect your foot health.

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 Jack A. Sasiene, DPM from Texas. Our doctor 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 Texas City and Lake Jackson, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.