Items filtered by date: May 2024
Causes of Adult-Acquired Flat Feet
Adult-acquired flat feet, also known as posterior tibial tendon dysfunction, is a condition where the arches of the feet gradually collapse over time. Unlike flat feet in children, which often resolve as they age, adult-acquired flat feet typically develop due to the weakening of the posterior tibial tendon, which is a crucial structure that supports the arch. This weakening can occur due to various factors, including injury, overuse, obesity, or simply the natural aging process. As the tendon loses its strength, the arch begins to flatten, leading to pain, swelling, and instability in the foot and ankle. Left untreated, adult-acquired flat feet can result in further complications such as arthritis or deformities in the foot's structure. Diagnosis often involves a thorough physical examination and may include imaging studies like X-rays or MRI scans. If you have flat feet, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a chiropodist who can help you manage this foot condition.
Flat feet are a common foot condition. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort due to flat feet, please consult with Chiropodist Stephanie Poupore from North Bay Foot & Ankle. Our clinician will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Are Flat Feet?
Flat feet are feet that do not have a well-defined arch in the middle of the sole of the foot. Flat feet may be flexible or rigid. Flexible flat feet have an arch when there is no pressure put on the foot, such as when one is sitting, but the arch disappears upon standing. Rigid flat feet lack an arch regardless of whether one is standing or not.
Causes
Flat feet can be present from birth or acquired over time due to a weakening of the ligaments in the arch. Sometimes flat feet are caused by illnesses, injuries, or pregnancy.
Symptoms
Flat feet often cause no noticeable symptoms. However, some people may experience pain and discomfort due to their flat feet.
Symptoms associated with flat feet include:
Pain in the arch, heel, ankle, or along the outside of the foot
Overpronation of the foot
Shin splints
Aching or fatigue in the feet or legs
Pain in the knees, hips, or lower back
Treatment
In cases where flat feet cause symptoms, there are various treatments available. Wearing orthotic inserts in your shoes to provide more arch support, performing stretches, and taking medications may improve your symptoms. If you are overweight, losing weight can help relieve pressure on the feet. In severe cases, surgery may be considered.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Are You Suffering From Nerve Damage?
Neuropathy is a condition that can lead to numbness or loss of sensation in the feet, but it can also cause pain. This condition is more likely to develop for those who are diabetic, obese, or with high blood pressure.
Bowling Foot and Ankle Injuries
Bowling is a fun leisure activity enjoyed by people of all ages, but it can lead to various foot and ankle injuries if proper precautions are not taken. The repetitive motion of bowling, combined with the force exerted on the feet during delivery, can strain muscles, ligaments, and tendons, leading to conditions like plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and ankle sprains. These injuries often result from poor technique, inadequate warm-up, or wearing improper footwear. To prevent bowling-related foot and ankle injuries, wear well-fitted bowling shoes with proper support and cushioning, warm up before bowling, and practice proper bowling form to minimize strain on the feet and ankles. If you experience persistent foot or ankle pain after bowling, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for evaluation and treatment.
Injuries to the foot and ankle are very common among athletes. If you have experienced an injury, please consult with Chiropodist Stephanie Poupore from North Bay Foot & Ankle. Our clinician will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Common Injuries Among Athletes:
Achilles tendon injuries
Ankle strains or sprains
Plantar fasciitis
Fractures
Turf toe
Joint dislocations
Sever’s disease
Morton’s neuroma
Symptoms
Symptoms will depend on the cause and severity of the injury. Common symptoms for a foot or ankle injury include pain, swelling, tenderness, bruising, a reduced range of motion, and difficulty bearing weight or walking on the affected foot or ankle.
Diagnosis
Sports injuries are typically diagnosed after carefully examining the affected foot or ankle. This includes moving the injured area to test its range of motion. Medical history will need to be provided, as well as detailed information about how the injury occurred. Imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRIs, may be used to confirm or rule out certain diagnoses.
Treatment
Just like symptoms, treatment will depend on the type of injury and its severity. Initial treatment for many sports injuries is aimed at controlling inflammation and promoting the healing response. The acronym R.I.C.E is a helpful guide to implement for most acute injuries. This method involves resting, icing, compressing, and elevating the affected foot or ankle. In addition, anti-inflammatory medications may be administered and orthotic devices may be prescribed. For more severe injuries, surgery may be required. Lastly, rehabilitation or physical therapy may be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
