tag:typepad.com,2003:weblog-1250480 %ISSUE_DATE%T09:25:32-07:00 Foot care and products. TypePad tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-55723 2012-01-29T12:00:32-07:00 2012-01-29T12:00:07-07:00

The word sesamoid is Latin for "sesame seed." These small bones are located inside specific tendons, where they improve mechanical efficiency by pulling the tendon farther away from the joint's axis of motion. The classic example of a sesamoid is the patella, which improves mechanical efficiency of the quadriceps by more than 50 percent.

By Thomas Michaud, DC The word sesamoid is Latin for "sesame seed." These small bones are located inside specific tendons, where they improve mechanical efficiency by pulling the tendon farther away from the joint's axis of motion. The classic example of a sesamoid is the patella, which improves mechanical efficiency of the quadriceps by more than 50 percent. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-55717 2012-01-29T12:00:32-07:00 2012-01-29T12:00:07-07:00

You already know how complicated the process of human balance is; but are you aware of the simple tools many providers are using to improve their patients' balance? Balance requires coordinated participation of the sensory (visual, vestibular and proprioceptive) and motor systems. The basic concept of balance is achieved when the body's center of gravity is maintained in a tight pattern over the base formed by the feet. Because of the potential complexity, treating balance often requires cooperation among several health care specialists.

By Mark Charrette, DC You already know how complicated the process of human balance is; but are you aware of the simple tools many providers are using to improve their patients' balance? Balance requires coordinated participation of the sensory (visual, vestibular and proprioceptive) and motor systems. The basic concept of balance is achieved when the body's center of gravity is maintained in a tight pattern over the base formed by the feet. Because of the potential complexity, treating balance often requires cooperation among several health care specialists. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-55664 2011-12-16T12:00:32-07:00 2011-12-16T12:00:07-07:00

Overpronation, characterized by a flattened longitudinal arch and rear-foot pronation, is the most commonly detected defect in foot alignment. High-arched feet, referred to as excessively supinated feet, are not nearly as common as overpronated feet. The ratio of overpronation to excessive supination is about 9:1, according to research. Cases of excessive supination do, however, present regularly at chiropractic practices.

By Mark Charrette, DC Overpronation, characterized by a flattened longitudinal arch and rear-foot pronation, is the most commonly detected defect in foot alignment. High-arched feet, referred to as excessively supinated feet, are not nearly as common as overpronated feet. The ratio of overpronation to excessive supination is about 9:1, according to research. Cases of excessive supination do, however, present regularly at chiropractic practices. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-55607 2011-11-04T12:00:32-07:00 2011-11-04T12:00:07-07:00

According to the American Diabetes Association, 24 million adults and children in the United States live with diabetes. One of the most common problems diabetics face is foot ulcerations; when not properly cared for, such ulcerations can lead to loss of part or all of the lower extremity.

By Mark Charrette, DC According to the American Diabetes Association, 24 million adults and children in the United States live with diabetes. One of the most common problems diabetics face is foot ulcerations; when not properly cared for, such ulcerations can lead to loss of part or all of the lower extremity. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-55573 2011-10-07T12:00:32-07:00 2011-10-07T12:00:07-07:00

Unfortunately, diabetes is one of the fastest growing illnesses in America. That means if you don't currently have patients with diabetes (unlikely, but possible), you will soon. And that means you're going to be treating patients with diabetic neuropathy, particularly diabetic neuropathy affecting their feet.

By John Hayes Jr., DC, MS, DACBO Unfortunately, diabetes is one of the fastest growing illnesses in America. That means if you don't currently have patients with diabetes (unlikely, but possible), you will soon. And that means you're going to be treating patients with diabetic neuropathy, particularly diabetic neuropathy affecting their feet. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-55495 2011-08-26T12:00:32-07:00 2011-08-26T12:00:07-07:00

Whenever a concern about low back pain brings a person in to see a chiropractor, a careful examination of the spine is required. Often neglected, however, is the importance of the feet to normal spinal function - especially in the lower back. When patients don't respond as well as expected to their chiropractic care, a source of interference is frequently located in the pedal foundation. No matter the cause, an abnormal gait contributes to musculoskeletal imbalances throughout the lower extremities, and eventually back pain develops.

By Mark Charrette, DC Whenever a concern about low back pain brings a person in to see a chiropractor, a careful examination of the spine is required. Often neglected, however, is the importance of the feet to normal spinal function - especially in the lower back. When patients don't respond as well as expected to their chiropractic care, a source of interference is frequently located in the pedal foundation. No matter the cause, an abnormal gait contributes to musculoskeletal imbalances throughout the lower extremities, and eventually back pain develops. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-55402 2011-07-01T12:00:32-07:00 2011-07-01T12:00:07-07:00

Evaluating your patient's gait can provide valuable information, especially in cases of slow response or other special situations. Many of the chronic or recurring cases of pelvic, hip or low back complaints are directly associated with gait imbalances. Take time to watch your patients walk around.

By Mark Charrette, DC Evaluating your patient's gait can provide valuable information, especially in cases of slow response or other special situations. Many of the chronic or recurring cases of pelvic, hip or low back complaints are directly associated with gait imbalances. Take time to watch your patients walk around. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-55323 2011-05-03T12:00:32-07:00 2011-05-03T12:00:07-07:00

Foot Levelers, Inc., an avid and generous supporter of chiropractic education and the profession, has partnered with Life Chiropractic College West in a multi-phased project to be completed over the course of several years. This comprises the second $250,000 pledge of a donation totaling $500,000.

Foot Levelers, Inc., an avid and generous supporter of chiropractic education and the profession, has partnered with Life Chiropractic College West in a multi-phased project to be completed over the course of several years. This comprises the second $250,000 pledge of a donation totaling $500,000. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-55276 2011-04-22T12:00:32-07:00 2011-04-22T12:00:07-07:00

In previous columns, I've reviewed the effects of abnormal Q angle and leg-length inequality on the pelvis and spine, as well as on the knee joints. I've discussed the various symptoms and clinical problems reported by patients with excessive pronation or sports-related injuries. This time, I want to call to your attention to (or remind you of) an interesting study that demonstrated how the lack of an arch can have a significant physiological impact.

By Mark Charrette, DC In previous columns, I've reviewed the effects of abnormal Q angle and leg-length inequality on the pelvis and spine, as well as on the knee joints. I've discussed the various symptoms and clinical problems reported by patients with excessive pronation or sports-related injuries. This time, I want to call to your attention to (or remind you of) an interesting study that demonstrated how the lack of an arch can have a significant physiological impact. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-55214 2011-03-12T12:00:32-07:00 2011-03-12T12:00:07-07:00

An early suspicion of leg-length inequality ("short leg") may arise from a patient's clinical exam, spinal X-rays or the existence of recurrent subluxations. If leg-length inequality is suspected, perform an accurate examination to determine the amount of difference and influence this discrepancy has on the patient's spine and gait. Next, determine the source of the inequality, so the correct treatment can be provided. Finally, determine by evaluation whether the treatment has sufficiently addressed the problem.

By Mark Charrette, DC An early suspicion of leg-length inequality ("short leg") may arise from a patient's clinical exam, spinal X-rays or the existence of recurrent subluxations. If leg-length inequality is suspected, perform an accurate examination to determine the amount of difference and influence this discrepancy has on the patient's spine and gait. Next, determine the source of the inequality, so the correct treatment can be provided. Finally, determine by evaluation whether the treatment has sufficiently addressed the problem. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-55131 2011-01-29T12:00:32-07:00 2011-01-29T12:00:07-07:00

Some active people – especially competitive, but even recreational athletes – suffer traumatic damage to the ligaments of the knees. Such injuries can have a negative impact on athletic performance, occasionally ending participation in a favorite sports activity. Excessive pronation has been found to be an underlying cause of some knee ligament injuries, and is a contributing factor in many.

By Mark Charrette, DC Some active people – especially competitive, but even recreational athletes – suffer traumatic damage to the ligaments of the knees. Such injuries can have a negative impact on athletic performance, occasionally ending participation in a favorite sports activity. Excessive pronation has been found to be an underlying cause of some knee ligament injuries, and is a contributing factor in many. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-55064 2010-12-16T12:00:32-07:00 2010-12-16T12:00:07-07:00

Sometimes a patient's need for custom-made foot orthotics becomes apparent only after an inadequate response to chiropractic care. Some patients, however, reveal an obvious need, and orthotics should be provided early in their care. This will allow a good response to adjustments and prevent frustration all around. What follows are some commonly seen patient characteristics that indicate the need for foot orthotics.

By Mark Charrette, DC Sometimes a patient's need for custom-made foot orthotics becomes apparent only after an inadequate response to chiropractic care. Some patients, however, reveal an obvious need, and orthotics should be provided early in their care. This will allow a good response to adjustments and prevent frustration all around. What follows are some commonly seen patient characteristics that indicate the need for foot orthotics. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54985 2010-11-04T12:00:32-07:00 2010-11-04T12:00:07-07:00

While flexible, custom-made stabilizing orthotics are beneficial for many chiropractic patients, over time they can decrease in effectiveness if not regularly evaluated. Because of exposure to variable biomechanical and environmental stresses, an orthotic's lifespan differs from patient to patient. Orthotics selected for a marathon runner will likely have a different lifespan than those designed for a sedentary octogenarian. Body chemistry and sweat production can also reduce the supportive qualities of some orthotics over time. In addition, some patients need to have new models or types of orthotics, but often don't know what is available.

By Mark Charrette, DC While flexible, custom-made stabilizing orthotics are beneficial for many chiropractic patients, over time they can decrease in effectiveness if not regularly evaluated. Because of exposure to variable biomechanical and environmental stresses, an orthotic's lifespan differs from patient to patient. Orthotics selected for a marathon runner will likely have a different lifespan than those designed for a sedentary octogenarian. Body chemistry and sweat production can also reduce the supportive qualities of some orthotics over time. In addition, some patients need to have new models or types of orthotics, but often don't know what is available. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54841 2010-08-26T12:00:32-07:00 2010-08-26T12:00:07-07:00

Degenerative joint disease (osteoarthrosis) increases in frequency as we age. As society gets older, therefore, chiropractors will encounter more patients afflicted with painful joint conditions. Whenever degenerative changes affect weight-bearing joints, especially in the spine and lower extremities, methods to reduce the damaging effects of heel-strike shock on the musculoskeletal system should be implemented. The use of custom-made, flexible orthotics can help alleviate present symptoms in these patients while also reducing the potential for future injury.

By Mark Charrette, DC Degenerative joint disease (osteoarthrosis) increases in frequency as we age. As society gets older, therefore, chiropractors will encounter more patients afflicted with painful joint conditions. Whenever degenerative changes affect weight-bearing joints, especially in the spine and lower extremities, methods to reduce the damaging effects of heel-strike shock on the musculoskeletal system should be implemented. The use of custom-made, flexible orthotics can help alleviate present symptoms in these patients while also reducing the potential for future injury. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54814 2010-08-12T12:00:32-07:00 2010-08-12T12:00:07-07:00

Braces and supports are frequently a part of chiropractic treatment plans. They can help after an acute injury, stabilize a chronic condition, and can also be considered safety devices. Most chiropractors have a supply of braces and supports on hand that reflect their style of practice. When necessary, they dispense them accordingly, typically by putting the brace on the patient for the first time or by providing the brace with verbal instructions. For years, these methods sufficed. However, in today's world of managed care, medical necessity, evidence-based practice and increased record-keeping standards, these methods are no longer adequate.

By K. Jeffrey Miller, DC, DABCO Braces and supports are frequently a part of chiropractic treatment plans. They can help after an acute injury, stabilize a chronic condition, and can also be considered safety devices. Most chiropractors have a supply of braces and supports on hand that reflect their style of practice. When necessary, they dispense them accordingly, typically by putting the brace on the patient for the first time or by providing the brace with verbal instructions. For years, these methods sufficed. However, in today's world of managed care, medical necessity, evidence-based practice and increased record-keeping standards, these methods are no longer adequate. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54727 2010-07-01T12:00:32-07:00 2010-07-01T12:00:07-07:00

Research studies confirm the importance of postural balance on effective biomechanical results. In a study on the effects of orthotic intervention on balance and proprioception among experienced golfers, data suggested a relationship between exercise and changes in standing balance and proprioception. Custom-made flexible orthotics positively influenced balance and proprioceptive symmetry and likely reduced the relative effects of fatigue associated with playing nine holes of simulated golf.

By Mark Charrette, DC Research studies confirm the importance of postural balance on effective biomechanical results. In a study on the effects of orthotic intervention on balance and proprioception among experienced golfers, data suggested a relationship between exercise and changes in standing balance and proprioception. Custom-made flexible orthotics positively influenced balance and proprioceptive symmetry and likely reduced the relative effects of fatigue associated with playing nine holes of simulated golf. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54711 2010-06-17T12:00:32-07:00 2010-06-17T12:00:07-07:00

I recently returned from speaking at a seminar in Holland. It was a great trip and seminar with wonderful people, great chiropractors and a lovely country. Our host, Dr. Jos van den Hoek, is a true champion of chiropractic in Holland. Once the seminar was over, we had one day for sightseeing and buying a few souvenirs. I asked my wife if there was anything she was particularly interested in; she gave me a few ideas and then mentioned Delft Pottery, a white pottery with blue enamel painting. It originated in Delft, Holland in the early 1600s. The modern version is named Delft Blauw or Delft Blue. She then said, "But that can be expensive." Well, after 27 years of marriage, I know how to take a hint.

By K. Jeffrey Miller, DC, DABCO I recently returned from speaking at a seminar in Holland. It was a great trip and seminar with wonderful people, great chiropractors and a lovely country. Our host, Dr. Jos van den Hoek, is a true champion of chiropractic in Holland. Once the seminar was over, we had one day for sightseeing and buying a few souvenirs. I asked my wife if there was anything she was particularly interested in; she gave me a few ideas and then mentioned Delft Pottery, a white pottery with blue enamel painting. It originated in Delft, Holland in the early 1600s. The modern version is named Delft Blauw or Delft Blue. She then said, "But that can be expensive." Well, after 27 years of marriage, I know how to take a hint. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54604 2010-04-22T12:00:32-07:00 2010-04-22T12:00:07-07:00

Ideal cervical spine posture when standing requires the coordination of skeletal structure, soft-tissue integrity, and neurological control to resist adverse gravitational loading forces. An often-overlooked factor of these requirements is the role that pedal stability can play in the maintenance of proper posture. Faulty foot biomechanics can have a negative impact on all supporting joints above the foot/ankle complex. For best results, the chiropractor seeking to treat a postural deviation needs to evaluate the potential involvement of the pedal foundation and correct postural foot problems.

By Mark Charrette, DC Ideal cervical spine posture when standing requires the coordination of skeletal structure, soft-tissue integrity, and neurological control to resist adverse gravitational loading forces. An often-overlooked factor of these requirements is the role that pedal stability can play in the maintenance of proper posture. Faulty foot biomechanics can have a negative impact on all supporting joints above the foot/ankle complex. For best results, the chiropractor seeking to treat a postural deviation needs to evaluate the potential involvement of the pedal foundation and correct postural foot problems. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54579 2010-04-09T12:00:32-07:00 2010-04-09T12:00:07-07:00

Ligaments connect bones at moveable joints; without them, the skeleton would fall apart. Because of their dense nature, they have a poor blood supply and are not highly proliferative when it comes to regeneration. Ligaments need to be tough and unyielding, but at the same time flexible and pliant to facilitate normal movements. They are elastic within normal limits and are protected from excessive tension by reflex contraction of appropriate muscles.

By Manuel Duarte, DC, DABCO, DACBSP, CSCS Ligaments connect bones at moveable joints; without them, the skeleton would fall apart. Because of their dense nature, they have a poor blood supply and are not highly proliferative when it comes to regeneration. Ligaments need to be tough and unyielding, but at the same time flexible and pliant to facilitate normal movements. They are elastic within normal limits and are protected from excessive tension by reflex contraction of appropriate muscles. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54539 2010-03-12T12:00:32-07:00 2010-03-12T12:00:07-07:00

The lumbosacral region includes the pelvis and the lower spine, as well as the many stabilizing connective tissues and muscles. The joints involved are the lower lumbar intervertebral motion segments (L4/L5 and L5/S1) and the two sacroiliac joints. A strain indicates an injury to muscular (contractile) tissues, while a sprain denotes damage to connective tissues, such as ligaments, fascia, and joint capsules.

By Mark Charrette, DC The lumbosacral region includes the pelvis and the lower spine, as well as the many stabilizing connective tissues and muscles. The joints involved are the lower lumbar intervertebral motion segments (L4/L5 and L5/S1) and the two sacroiliac joints. A strain indicates an injury to muscular (contractile) tissues, while a sprain denotes damage to connective tissues, such as ligaments, fascia, and joint capsules. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54446 2010-01-29T12:00:32-07:00 2010-01-29T12:00:07-07:00

The feet are the foundation of support for the pelvis and spine. They provide the necessary stability to perform daily activities. Central to the success of the pedal foundation is its arched structure, which is actually a complex of three bony arches: the medial longitudinal arch, the lateral longitudinal arch and the anterior transverse (metatarsal) arch.

By Mark Charrette, DC The feet are the foundation of support for the pelvis and spine. They provide the necessary stability to perform daily activities. Central to the success of the pedal foundation is its arched structure, which is actually a complex of three bony arches: the medial longitudinal arch, the lateral longitudinal arch and the anterior transverse (metatarsal) arch. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54372 2009-12-16T12:00:32-07:00 2009-12-16T12:00:07-07:00

Women are different from men not only in structure and biomechanics, but also in the way they make purchasing decisions. Therefore, when you recommend flexible, custom-made stabilizing orthotics to your female patients, it's important to follow these three guidelines: address women's special needs, target your message to women, and provide valuable, detailed information.

By Mark Charrette, DC Women are different from men not only in structure and biomechanics, but also in the way they make purchasing decisions. Therefore, when you recommend flexible, custom-made stabilizing orthotics to your female patients, it's important to follow these three guidelines: address women's special needs, target your message to women, and provide valuable, detailed information. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54309 2009-11-18T12:00:32-07:00 2009-11-18T12:00:07-07:00

It appears that manual techniques decrease potentially destructive compensatory movement patterns, but also increase the quality and quantity of sensory information supplied to the central nervous system, which has a facilitating effect on the vestibular system and may even block a chronic pain pattern. This may be theoretically accomplished by stimulating the faster AB fibers that close the gate to the slower fibers responsible for pain transmission.

By Manuel Duarte, DC, DABCO, DACBSP, CSCS It appears that manual techniques decrease potentially destructive compensatory movement patterns, but also increase the quality and quantity of sensory information supplied to the central nervous system, which has a facilitating effect on the vestibular system and may even block a chronic pain pattern. This may be theoretically accomplished by stimulating the faster AB fibers that close the gate to the slower fibers responsible for pain transmission. tag:mpamedia.com,2008:post-54031 2009-09-09T12:00:32-07:00 2009-09-09T12:00:07-07:00

If you have been in practice for any length of time, you have had a patient limp in with ankle pain. Simple sprains are often simple to address and treat, but when there is considerable swelling and pain, the question of fracture must be raised. Standards of care dictate that most patients with ankle injuries are X-rayed; statistically, however, only about 15 percent of these X-rays are positive for fracture.

By Douglas R. Briggs, DC, Dipl. Ac. (IAMA), DAAPM and Kymberlie S. Combs, LMT If you have been in practice for any length of time, you have had a patient limp in with ankle pain. Simple sprains are often simple to address and treat, but when there is considerable swelling and pain, the question of fracture must be raised. Standards of care dictate that most patients with ankle injuries are X-rayed; statistically, however, only about 15 percent of these X-rays are positive for fracture.