The human foot is an intricate structure made of 26 bones working together to absorb shock, adapt to uneven surfaces, and create powerful movement, even for dancers who demand precision and balance. When foot mechanics are disrupted, symptoms that may develop include aching pain, fatigue, or instability that travels through the feet, ankles, knees, and even hips. Common signs include changes in posture, uneven shoe wear, swelling, soreness, or burning during activity. Poor mechanics can be caused by genetics, injury, repetitive stress, improper footwear, or the intense demands placed on the feet through sports or dance. The foot may look flattened, overly arched, or misaligned, and it can feel strained, tired, or painful with prolonged standing or movement. A podiatrist evaluates foot mechanics through gait analysis, physical examination, and imaging to identify the source of imbalance. Treatment often begins with education, supportive footwear, and custom orthotics, progressing to strengthening exercises or corrective options to restore efficient movement. If you have foot mechanics problems, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Stephanie Tine, DPM from Flamingo 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 Fort Lauderdale, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Pickleball is a fast-paced sport that places repeated stress on the ankles through quick direction changes, sudden stops, and lateral movements. Hurt ankles often result from ligament strain, overuse, or improper foot positioning during play. Risk factors include inadequate warm-up, poor balance, uneven court surfaces, and wearing shoes without proper support or traction. Previous ankle injuries and weak stabilizing muscles can also increase the chance of pain or sprain. A podiatrist can assess ankle stability, identify biomechanical issues, recommend supportive footwear or custom orthotics, and create a treatment plan to reduce inflammation and promote healing. If ankle pain is limiting your pickleball performance or daily activity, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist to restore strength, prevent future injury, and keep you confidently on the court.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Stephanie Tine, DPM from Flamingo Foot and Ankle. 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 tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• 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 our office located in Fort Lauderdale, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that commonly affects the skin between the toes and the soles of the feet. Unlike ordinary dry skin, athlete’s foot is contagious and can cause itching, burning, redness, cracking, peeling, and blisters. The infection often develops in warm, moist environments such as shoes, locker rooms, or near swimming pools. Causes include exposure to the fungus, poor foot hygiene, sweaty feet, and wearing tight or non-breathable footwear. A podiatrist can accurately diagnose athlete’s foot, differentiate it from dry skin or other skin conditions, and recommend antifungal treatments, proper foot care, and preventive measures. If you notice persistent itching, redness, or peeling between your toes, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Stephanie Tine, DPM from Flamingo Foot and Ankle.  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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

Flat feet are a foot condition in which the arches collapse or fail to develop fully, causing the feet to roll inward during standing and walking. When the feet roll in, the ankles often tilt down toward the ground on one side, creating instability and uneven weight distribution. This altered alignment can have a domino effect on the knees and hip joints, leading to discomfort and joint strain over time. Flat feet are also linked to plantar fasciitis, foot fatigue, in addition to foot and ankle arthritis. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, gait, and alignment to determine the severity of flat feet. Treatment may include supportive footwear, custom orthotics, and targeted therapies. If you have flat feet and foot pain or joint discomfort is affecting your daily life, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist for relief and management tips.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Stephanie Tine, DPM from Flamingo Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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