Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment of Flat Feet
Flat feet, medically known as pes planus, is a common condition where the arch of the foot is abnormally low or nonexistent, causing the entire sole to touch the ground when standing. This can be due to various factors, such as genetics, obesity, pregnancy, or repetitive high-impact activities. While some people with flat feet experience no discomfort, others may develop symptoms that affect their daily lives. Flat feet can originate in childhood, where the arch has not yet developed, and may persist into adulthood. Over time, the wear and tear on the posterior tibial tendon can lead to the arch collapsing, resulting in overpronation. Ankles and knees can also be affected, as flat feet may cause the ankles to turn inward, leading to alignment issues in the legs. Symptoms can range from difficulty standing on tiptoe to knee and back pain, arch strain, and swelling along the inside of the ankle. When it comes to treatment, a range of options can help alleviate the discomfort associated with flat feet. Special shoes with strong heel counters, steel or carbon fiber shanks, and medial postings can assist in alignment. Custom-designed arch supports, molded to your foot's unique contours, are often recommended. Stretching exercises for a shortened Achilles tendon may also prove beneficial. For help in dealing with flat feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to determine the best course of action for your specific needs.
Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Sayville Foot Care. Our doctors 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 Sayville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Flatfoot
Flatfoot is a foot disorder that is not as straightforward as many people believe. Various types of flatfoot exist, each with their own varying deformities and symptoms. The partial or total collapse of the arch, however, is a characteristic common to all types of flatfoot. Other signs of flatfoot include:
- “Toe drift,” or the pointing outward of the toes and the front part of the foot
- The tilting outward of the heel and the tilting inward of the ankle
- The lifting of the heel off the ground earlier when walking due to a tight Achilles tendon
- Hammertoes
- Bunions
One of the most common types of flatfoot is flexible flatfoot. This variation usually starts in childhood and progresses as one ages into adulthood. Flexible flatfoot presents as a foot that is flat when standing, or weight-bearing. When not standing, the arch returns. Symptoms of flexible flatfoot include:
- Pain located in the heel, arch, ankle, or along the outside of the foot
- Overpronation, or an ankle that rolls in
- Shin splint, or pain along the shin bone
- General foot aches or fatigue
- Pain located in the lower back, hip, or knee
Your podiatrist will most likely diagnose flatfoot by examining your feet when you stand and sit. X-rays may be taken to define the severity and help determine the treatment option best for your condition. Nonsurgical treatments can include activity modification, weight loss, orthotics, immobilization, medications, physical therapy, shoe modifications, and ankle foot orthoses (AFO) devices. If nonsurgical methods prove ineffective, surgery may be considered. Multiple surgical procedures can correct flatfoot; and depending on your specific condition, one may be selected alone or combined with other techniques to ensure optimal results.
Arthritis Can Cause Pain in the Feet and Ankles
If you are suffering from tenderness, pain, or stiffness in the joints of your feet or ankles, call us to schedule an appointment.
Laser Therapy and Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, can be stubborn and challenging to treat with traditional methods. However, recent advancements in medical technology have introduced an effective alternative, which is known as laser therapy. This innovative approach utilizes concentrated beams of light to target and eliminate the fungus residing beneath the toenail. The laser treatment process begins with the application of the laser, which penetrates the nail. This specifically targets the fungal infection while leaving the surrounding healthy tissue unharmed. The laser generates heat, effectively eradicating the fungal cells and inhibiting their ability to regrow. Laser treatment offers several advantages. It is non-invasive, requires no anesthesia, and typically involves minimal discomfort. Additionally, it can be extremely effective, often requiring fewer sessions than traditional treatments. Patients can generally resume their daily activities immediately following the procedure. As with any medical treatment, consultation with a podiatrist is crucial in determining what the best approach is for your specific condition. Laser therapy represents a promising option in the battle against stubborn toenail fungus, offering a safe, efficient, and minimally disruptive solution to restore healthy and clear nails. If you are afflicted with toenail fungus, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can determine if laser treatment is right for you.
Laser treatment can be an effective way to get rid of toenail fungus. If you have any questions about laser treatment, consult with one of our podiatrists from Sayville Foot Care. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment for fungal nails.
What Are Toenail Fungal Infections?
Onychomycosis, or fungal infection of the nail, is a relatively common and non-serious condition. Around 10 percent of U.S. citizens are afflicted with fungal nails. Common forms of fungus that infect the nail include dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds.
Symptoms of Toenail Fungal Infections Include:
- Nail thickening
- Brittleness of the nail
- Discoloration of the nail
Diagnosis for Fungal Nails
Fungal infections are diagnosed by fungal culture and microscopy. This will rule out any other conditions such as nail trauma, psoriasis, lichen planus, and onychogryphosis.
What Is Laser Treatment?
Laser treatment is a non-invasive, safe, quick, and painless procedure that uses the heat from a laser to kill fungus in the nail. Each infected nail is targeted with a laser for several minutes. The treatment is usually utilized several different times over a select period. During this time, a podiatrist will keep an eye on the infection.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Sayville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Laser Treatment for Fungal Nails
A new treatment for fungal nails, or onychomycosis, which has grown in popularity in recent years, is laser treatment. Laser treatment involves the use of a laser that kills fungus in the toenail with heat. Laser therapy causes no side effects and does not affect nearby healthy tissue.
Toenail fungus afflicts almost 10 percent of the U.S. population and is more common among the elderly. The most common symptom of toenail fungus is the discoloration and thickening of the nail. The nail can also become brittle and a foul smell may be produced. In rare cases, pain might be present. While it is not a serious condition, it can lead to a perception of disgust amongst those it affects. There are several different fungi that cause fungal infections. These include dermatophyte, yeast, and mold. The most common of these is dermatophyte.
Diagnosis for fungal nails involves a podiatrist utilizing microscopy and fungal cultures. This will allow the doctor to determine whether it is a fungus or another condition, such as lichen planus, psoriasis, nail damage, and onychogryphosis.
Fungus in the nails can be hard to get rid of with over-the-counter drugs. This is due to the nail being hard and protective, with fungus able to slip between the nail bed and plate. Furthermore the slow growth of the nail increases the difficulty of fungus going away. Laser treatment seeks to get around this by directly penetrating through the nail and killing the fungus. The laser is used on each infected nail for a couple of minutes. Patients then typically return several weeks or months later for another laser treatment. During this time the podiatrist will routinely observe the foot and infection. It is also recommended to wear clean socks and shoes and allow the feet to dry and breathe to prevent toenail fungus.
Laser treatment is still a relatively new treatment and not all podiatrists have laser machines. Ask your podiatrist if they do laser treatment for toenail fungus and if it is right for you.
Chronic Ankle Instability
Ankle sprains happen again and again, and about one in five cases that start as short-term issues become long-term problems affecting the ankle. These long-term problems often occur because the initial sprain was not properly treated. Getting the correct diagnosis is very important. Special tests such as the varus stress test and the anterior drawer test can help doctors determine what the cause is. Occasionally, doctors may miss another issue called subtalar instability, which can also cause long-term ankle problems. Most of the time, simple treatments work for short-term sprains, but for long-term issues, surgery may be needed. Knowing the structure of the ankle and how it works may help to improve surgery and other treatments. Surgeries often repair the natural structure of the ankle and may use tendons to make it stronger. A type of surgery called arthroscopy is becoming popular for treating long-term ankle problems because it is less invasive. If you have ongoing ankle issues, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and offer the correct treatment for you.
Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact one of our podiatrists from Sayville Foot Care. Our doctors 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 office located in Sayville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Three Grades of Ankle Sprains
An ankle sprain occurs when one or more ankle ligament gets overly stretched. Ligaments are strong bands of tissue that bind and support the bones and other structures that make up the ankle. In more severe ankle sprains, the ligament(s) tear—either partially or completely—and there may be an audible popping noise at the moment of injury.
Ankle sprains are quite common and can occur when the ankle rolls outwardly (eversion) or inwardly (inversion), causing the ligament(s) to stretch beyond normal limits, or even tear. Falls, twists, or blows to the ankle during sports or other activities can cause this injury, as well as wearing improper footwear, running on uneven surfaces, or having weak ankles.
Depending on the injury’s severity, an ankle sprain will be classified as Grade I, Grade II, or Grade III. Grade I sprains involve ligament(s) being overly stretched but not torn, with symptoms of mild pain, swelling, and ankle instability. There may also be some difficulty bearing weight. A Grade II sprain usually involves a partial tear of the ligament which brings more intensity in these symptoms, along with possible bruising. With a Grade III sprain, the ligament is completely torn, the symptoms are severe, and it may not be possible to put weight on the affected foot at all.
To diagnose and grade an ankle sprain, a podiatrist will perform a physical examination, checking for tenderness and range of motion in the ankle. For more severe sprains, X-rays or other imaging studies may be necessary.
It is vitally important to have an ankle sprain treated properly as improper healing often leads to future ankle sprains and possibly even chronic ankle stability. Treatment for an ankle sprain will vary, depending on its severity, and may include the RICE method (Rest/Ice/Compression/Elevation), physical therapy, bracing, medications, and possibly even surgery to repair a torn ligament. Rehabilitation is very important for the sprain to heal properly and to restore functionality.
Foot Pain and Pregnancy
Pregnancy is usually an event that is looked forward to with anticipation and excitement. However, it is also a time where many changes take place in a woman’s body and some of them are challenging. For example, pregnancy can lead to changes in foot anatomy, potentially increasing the risk of foot pain and musculoskeletal issues. It has been found that orthotics can help to prevent back pain and arch collapse during pregnancy. Orthotics are designed to absorb shock, increase stability, and reduce extra movement that can aggravate pain. These, along with wearing supportive, well-fitting shoes, can provide relief. If you are pregnant and enduring foot or related pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can help you to find ways to get through these common discomforts more comfortably.
Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with one of our podiatrists from Sayville Foot Care. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?
One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward. This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.
Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages.
How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?
- Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
- Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
- Wear shoes with good arch support
- Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
- Elevate feet if you experience swelling
- Massage your feet
- Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Sayville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Foot Care for Pregnant Women
The natural weight that pregnant women gain causes their center of gravity to be completely altered. This causes them to have a new weight-bearing stance which adds pressure to the knees and feet. As a result, pregnant women often experience severe foot pain. The two most common foot issues experienced by women in their pregnancies are edema and over-pronation. It is important for all pregnant women to learn more about how to take care of their feet so they are more comfortable during their pregnancy.
Over-pronation, which is commonly referred to as flat feet, is caused when a person’s arch flattens out upon weight bearing. This causes the person’s feet to roll inward while walking. Pregnant women often experience this due to the sudden weight they gain.
Edema, also referred as swelling in the feet, typically occurs in the later part of the pregnancy. It is the result of the extra blood accumulated in the pregnant woman’s body. The enlarged uterus puts more pressure on the blood vessels in the pelvis which causes leg circulation to slow down. This causes blood to pool in the lower extremities.
Fortunately, there are ways to treat both edema and over-pronation. Edema can be treated by elevating the foot as often as possible. Wearing proper fitting footwear will also be helpful for those with edema. A treatment method for over-pronation could be orthotics. Orthotic inserts should be designed with appropriate arch support and medial rear foot for your foot.
It is best for pregnant women to buy new shoes during the day, because this is the time where swelling is at its peak. Pregnant women also shouldn’t rush when buying shoes. It is always advised that you make sure your shoes fit properly but this is especially important during pregnancy.
If you are a pregnant woman, you should consult with a podiatrist in order to make sure your feet are healthy throughout the entirety of your pregnancy.
Lupus and Foot Problems
Lupus patients commonly experience foot-related problems that are painful and can cause disability. These issues encompass various foot structures, including joints, skin, and nerves. Foot problems in lupus patients can originate from joint and soft tissue disorders, dermatological complications, neurological and circulatory issues, and vasculitis. Approximately two-thirds of lupus patients have foot arthritis. Imaging shows inflammatory foot joint abnormalities, with the ankle and metatarsophalangeal joints most affected, essential for mobility. Dermatological issues, including corns and calluses, are common and may lead to foot ulceration. Immunosuppressive treatments increase the risk of skin infections such as fungal infections. Lupus patients face vascular problems, including peripheral vascular disease and Raynaud’s phenomenon. Neurological deficits affect lupus patients which may lead to sensory neuropathy, altered gait, and an increased risk of falls. Foot deformities may not always be apparent due to footwear, and foot problems in lupus cannot always be solely attributed to the disease as they are also prevalent in the general population. Management of foot issues in lupus requires a comprehensive approach and podiatry care. If you have lupus and are experiencing foot problems, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can help you regain quality of life.
When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact one of our podiatrists from Sayville Foot Care. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.
Systemic Diseases of the Feet
Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable. Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.
Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.
Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.
Diabetes of the Feet
Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.
Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Sayville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
