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The foot is a complex structure made up of bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments that work together to support movement, especially during running. The arch of the foot plays a vital role in absorbing shock and providing stability while running. The toes, including the big toe, help in pushing off the ground with each stride, while the metatarsals act as a base to support the foot’s weight. The heel, or calcaneus, absorbs impact during the landing phase and helps with propulsion. Tendons such as the Achilles tendon connect the calf muscles to the heel, allowing for proper foot movement and flexibility. The muscles within the foot and lower leg help maintain balance and control during running. If you have sustained a running injury, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, enabling you to return to running safely. 

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Jonathan Kletz from Texas Foot Works. 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 one of our our offices located in Dallas, Athens, and Gun Barrel City, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Walking barefoot is a natural activity that can have numerous benefits for children. When kids walk without shoes, they allow their feet to develop and strengthen naturally. The muscles and ligaments in the feet work more effectively when they are not restricted by footwear, promoting better balance and coordination. Barefoot walking also helps improve posture as it encourages children to align their bodies properly. Furthermore, walking barefoot allows children to connect with their environment, providing sensory feedback that can stimulate cognitive and emotional development. It also promotes the proper formation of the arches in the feet, reducing the risk of developing issues such as flat feet. In addition, barefoot walking can help increase circulation and improve the flexibility of the feet. While it is important to be mindful of potential hazards, allowing kids to walk barefoot at home or in safe outdoor spaces can contribute positively to their physical and overall development. If your child has foot pain for any reason, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and address any concern you may have about barefoot walking.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Dr. Jonathan Kletz of Texas Foot Works. 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 one of our our offices located in Dallas, Athens, and Gun Barrel City, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Lateral ligament injuries occur when the ligaments on the outside of the ankle are stretched or torn, often due to a sudden twist, fall, or awkward landing. These injuries are common in athletes, especially those involved in sports requiring quick direction changes, such as basketball, soccer, pickleball, and tennis. However, anyone can experience a lateral ligament injury from an unexpected misstep or walking on uneven ground. Symptoms include swelling, bruising, pain, and instability in the ankle. Mild sprains may heal with rest, compression, and elevation, while more severe tears might require bracing or targeted exercises to restore strength and flexibility. Without proper treatment, repeated injuries can lead to chronic instability and long-term weakness. Strengthening exercises, balance training, and wearing supportive footwear can help prevent recurrence. If pain persists or instability affects movement, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and a tailored recovery plan.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Dr. Jonathan Kletz from Texas Foot Works. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our our offices located in Dallas, Athens, and Gun Barrel City, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.