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 Lance Greiff, DPM from Great Neck Podiatry. 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 Great Neck Bronx, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ankle sprains in children are common injuries that occur when the ligaments supporting the ankle stretch or tear, often due to running, jumping, or sudden twists during sports and play. The ankle may look swollen, bruised, or slightly deformed, and the child may have difficulty putting weight on the affected foot. Many children describe sharp pain at the time of injury, followed by tenderness, stiffness, or a feeling of instability. Repeated ankle sprains in childhood can increase the risk of chronic ankle instability later in life if not properly treated. A podiatrist can begin by examining the ankle, assessing the range of motion, and using imaging if necessary to rule out fractures or growth plate injuries. Treatment may include elevation, supportive braces, targeted exercises, and guidance on safe return to activity. Early care supports proper healing, prevents recurring injuries, and maintains mobility. If your child experiences persistent pain, swelling, or difficulty walking after an ankle injury, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Lance Greiff, DPM from Great Neck Podiatry. 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 are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

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

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Great Neck Bronx, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A podiatrist is a medical specialist who focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of conditions affecting the feet and ankles. This type of doctor plays an important role in promoting foot health, improving mobility, and supporting overall wellness. Podiatrists treat a wide range of foot and ankle conditions, including injuries, infections, deformities, and chronic pain. This type of doctor also plays a key role in diabetes care by monitoring circulation, nerve health, and skin integrity to help prevent ulcers and serious complications. Through regular exams, education, and preventive care, podiatrists help patients stay active and independent. If you are experiencing foot pain, changes in sensation, or difficulty walking, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist to improve comfort and protect your feet.

If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to contact Lance Greiff, DPM from Great Neck Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

Someone would seek the care of a podiatrist if they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems, etc.

Podiatric Treatment

A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:

• Physical therapy
• Drugs
• Orthotic inserts or soles
• Surgery on lower extremity fractures

A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans are available.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Great Neck Bronx, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

When children experience heel pain, it can interfere with their ability to play, walk comfortably, or participate in daily activities. One of the most common causes is Sever disease, an inflammation of the growth plate in the heel that often develops during growth spurts. Other possible issues include overuse injuries, poorly fitting shoes, flat feet, or biomechanical imbalances that place added strain on the heel. Although heel discomfort in children is often temporary, it should never be ignored, especially if the pain persists, worsens with activity, or changes the way a child walks. Early evaluation allows a podiatrist to determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate care, which may include activity modifications, stretching, wearing supportive footwear, or custom orthotics. It is suggested you see a podiatrist if your child has ongoing heel pain or difficulty walking without discomfort.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Lance Greiff, DPM of Great Neck Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Great Neck Bronx, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.