Flat feet, or fallen arches, occur when the natural arch in the foot is absent, leading to the entire sole making contact with the ground. While flat feet can be present from childhood, many people develop the condition later in life, known as adult-acquired flat feet. Causes include weakened or torn tendons, particularly the posterior tibial tendon, which supports the arch. Among other factors are arthritis, which can affect joint alignment, and injuries like bone fractures or ligament sprains that compromise foot structure. Obesity, diabetes, and even pregnancy can also increase the risk of developing flat feet by placing extra strain on the arches. Symptoms of adult flat feet often include foot, knee, or lower back pain, especially after extended standing or physical activity. Treatment from a podiatrist might involve custom orthotics, supportive footwear, or exercises to strengthen foot muscles. If you have flat feet that are problematic, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.
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 New Bern, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
A bunion is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe, typically due to misalignment of some of the bones in the front of the foot. This misalignment can force the tip of the big toe toward the smaller toes, causing the base of the joint to protrude. Common causes of bunions include wearing tight or narrow footwear, hereditary foot shapes, and medical conditions like arthritis. Symptoms include swelling, redness, and persistent pain at the big toe joint. A podiatrist can assess the severity of the bunion and recommend appropriate treatment options. Non-surgical choices include wearing shoes with a wider toe box, using protective pads, or applying orthotic devices to redistribute pressure. If non-surgical measures are ineffective, surgery may be considered to realign the bones or remove inflamed tissue. If you have developed a bunion that is causing pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.
Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.
Causes
Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development
Symptoms
Redness and inflammation
Pain and tenderness
Callus or corns on the bump
Restricted motion in the big toe
In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in New Bern, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis characterized by sudden and debilitating pain, swelling, and redness in the joints, often affecting the big toe. This condition arises from elevated levels of uric acid in the blood, leading to the formation of urate crystals in the joints. Several risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing gout, including a diet high in purines, which are found in foods such as red meat, shellfish, and alcohol. Obesity, certain medical conditions like hypertension and diabetes, and a family history of gout also contribute to risk. Common signs of gout include intense joint pain, particularly during the night, and tenderness or discomfort in the affected area. If you have had one or more gout episodes, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Thomas Bobrowski, DPM from InStride Crystal Coast Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.
People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.
Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in New Bern, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
