Proprioception is the body’s ability to sense position and movement without looking. It allows people to walk, stand, and adjust balance with ease. When this system does not work well, coordination and stability can suffer. Poor proprioception can lead to frequent missteps, ankle sprains, and falls, especially on uneven surfaces. It may also cause slower reaction times, making it harder for the feet and ankles to respond to sudden changes in movement. Causes include aging, previous injuries, nerve problems, and reduced joint awareness. A podiatrist can evaluate balance, joint motion, and nerve function to determine the source of the problem. Treatment plans include targeted exercises, bracing, or custom orthotics to improve foot stability and alignment. If you have symptoms of poor proprioception, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Alice Kim, DPM from 101 Foot and Ankle. 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 Camarillo, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

When a child’s feet turn inward while walking, this is called in-toeing. It often happens because the bones in the leg are slightly rotated, causing the toes to point inward instead of straight ahead. This is common in toddlers and young children, and is often part of normal growth. Some children may trip more often, while others have no pain or trouble staying active. In-toeing can come from the shin bone, called the tibia, or the thigh bone, called the femur, turning inward. A podiatrist can examine how your child walks, check foot and leg alignment, and determine if the condition is likely to improve with growth or if further care is needed. In rare cases, imaging or surgery may be discussed if the problem is severe. If your child is in-toeing, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and effective management of this condition.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Alice Kim, DPM of 101 Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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

Hammertoe is a foot deformity where a toe bends at the middle joint, causing it to curl downward instead of lying flat. It usually affects the second toe, and happens when the muscles and tendons in the toe are not balanced. This can cause one part of the toe to bend upward while another part bends downward. Hammertoe is seen more often in women, often because of wearing tight or high-heeled shoes. Other causes include muscle imbalance and changes in foot structure. Risk factors include aging, family history, and wearing narrow shoes. Symptoms may include pain, corns, calluses, and trouble finding comfortable shoes. A podiatrist can check your toes, suggest treatments, and help relieve discomfort. If you notice changes in your toes, it is suggested you schedule a visit for care. 

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Alice Kim, DPM of 101 Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

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

An ankle sprain occurs when the foot twists or rolls, causing the ligaments, which are strong bands of tissue that support the joint, to stretch or tear. An ankle sprain often happens while playing sports, walking or running on uneven surfaces, or sudden changes in direction. Risk factors include previous sprains, loose joints, and certain foot shapes that make the ankle less stable. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking. A podiatrist can perform a detailed exam to assess ligament damage and check for more serious injuries. Imaging and X-rays may be used to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment depends on the severity and includes bracing, controlled movement, and structured rehabilitation to restore strength and balance. In more severe or repeated cases, advanced care or surgery may be needed to improve stability. If you have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for immediate care.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Alice Kim, DPM from 101 Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Camarillo, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.