Items filtered by date: March 2024

Flat feet, also known as pes planus, affect about 18 million adults in the United States, with an additional 8 million grappling with fallen arches. Flat feet often stem from the weakening of the posterior tibial tendon, which supports the arch of the foot. It can worsen after years of simple daily activity, like walking, running, and standing. While flat feet are normal in infants and toddlers, some individuals never develop arches, leading to persistent issues into adulthood. Distinguishing between flat feet and overpronation is important for an accurate diagnosis. With flat feet there is no visible arch whether seated or standing. Overpronation, however, is a biomechanical change in the way you walk that can contribute to fallen arches. In either case, seeking a professional evaluation from a podiatrist is essential if you suspect flat feet or experience pain related to flat feet. For a full exam and subsequent treatment plan, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Summit Podiatry. 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 one of our offices located in Wilmington, Whiteville, and Wallace, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Your feet work hard each day to support your body and facilitate movement, and for that reason, it makes sense to keep them in shape through regular exercise. Engaging in simple foot exercises is one way to do just that. Regularly performing toe raises, curls, splay movements and stretches can improve flexibility and range of motion. These exercises also help to reduce foot and ankle pain as well as muscle soreness, while enhancing your overall foot health. By incorporating foot exercises into your routine daily, or even three days a week, you can strengthen the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in your feet. This in turn promotes better balance, stability, and posture. Activities like marble pickups and tennis ball rolls not only strengthen muscles but also enhance coordination and may reduce the risk of falls, particularly in older adults. However, it is essential to listen to your body and avoid overexertion, ensuring a gentle and consistent approach to foot exercises. It is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide guidance on suitable exercises tailored to your specific needs and foot conditions. 

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Summit Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctors to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Wilmington, Whiteville, and Wallace, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Swelling, or edema, in the feet, is a common occurrence during pregnancy. Swelling of the feet is primarily attributed to hormonal fluctuations, increased blood volume, and fluid retention. The surge in progesterone slows digestion and circulation, leading to fluid accumulation, particularly in the lower extremities. Additionally, the body's heightened blood volume, necessary to support fetal growth and prepare for labor, worsens this swelling. Swelling can begin as early as the fifth month, especially in women exposed to hot climates or extended periods of standing. Taking regular short walks, avoiding prolonged sitting or standing, and opting for comfortable footwear can help alleviate discomfort. Dietary modifications, including potassium-rich foods and reduced sodium intake, may also help manage swelling. If you are troubled by swelling or other foot ailments during pregnancy, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

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 Summit Podiatry. 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 one of our offices located in Wilmington, Whiteville, and Wallace, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

In-toeing in your child is a foot deformity where the front half of the foot bends or turns inward toward the side of the big toe. This condition, known as metatarsus adductus, can be attributed to the baby's positioning in the womb. Family history can also play a role. Symptoms of metatarsus adductus typically include inward angulation of the front part of the foot, with ankles and heel in a normal position. In-toeing, or walking with the forefoot turned in, can result from this deformity. Diagnosis is typically made after a physical exam, with an additional assessment of the hips to rule out other issues. Although metatarsus adductus may correct itself with time, performing certain stretching exercises, wearing splints, special shoes, or a cast may be treatments prescribed by a podiatrist. The type of intervention is generally based on the flexibility of the foot. Surgery is rarely needed for in-toeing, and is usually postponed until the child is older. Despite their in-toeing, most children can still engage in athletic activities later in life without interference. To find out more about managing your child's in-toeing, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. 

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Summit Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.

What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?

A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.

What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?

Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:

• Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
• Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
• Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
• Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
• Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
• Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Treatment and Prevention

While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Wilmington, Whiteville, and Wallace, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.