Flat feet occur when the arches of the feet collapse, causing the entire sole to make contact with the ground. This condition can lead to pain and discomfort, especially in the arch, heel, or knees. Symptoms also include swelling, fatigue, or stiffness in the feet, particularly after long periods of standing or physical activity. Flat feet can be caused by genetics, injury, or age, and may worsen over time. This condition can also contribute to misalignment, causing pain in the lower back, hips, or knees. A podiatrist can help by assessing your feet and recommending treatment options, such as custom orthotics to provide better arch support. This type of doctor may also suggest stretching and strengthening exercises to improve foot alignment and relieve discomfort. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary. If you have flat feet, 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 Lakewood Family Foot and Ankle. 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 Lakewood, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Seeing a podiatrist early for an ingrown toenail can prevent infection, pain, and complications. In its early stages, an ingrown toenail may cause mild discomfort and redness, which can often be managed with proper trimming techniques, soaking, and footwear adjustments. However, if left untreated, the nail can penetrate deeper into the skin, leading to swelling, infection, and severe pain. In some cases, an untreated ingrown toenail can cause complications, especially for individuals with diabetes or circulation issues. A podiatrist can safely remove the ingrown portion of the nail, provide relief, and recommend preventive measures to stop it from recurring. If needed, minor procedures can permanently correct the problem. If you have an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to prevent further discomfort.
Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Lakewood Family Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.
Causes
- Improper toenail trimming
- Genetics
- Improper shoe fitting
- Injury from pedicures or nail picking
- Abnormal gait
- Poor hygiene
You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.
Symptoms
Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.
Treatment
Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lakewood, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Heel pain can negatively affect your day-to-day life. Simple activities like walking can become incredibly uncomfortable or painful due to heel pain.
Don’t live with heel pain and get treated.
Many children walk with their feet turned inward or outward, also known as in-toeing or out-toeing. In-toeing occurs when the feet point inward while walking. It is often caused by inward twisting of the shinbone or thighbone, or a curved foot shape present at birth. Out-toeing, where the feet point outward, may result from an outward twist in the leg bones or hip position. These conditions are usually painless and improve as a child grows. They can be influenced by genetics, fetal positioning, or natural variations in bone development.. Encouraging proper footwear and monitoring walking patterns can help ensure gradual healthy foot development. If your child has feet that turn inward or outward, it is suggested that a podiatrist is consulted who can rule out potential conditions, and can monitor your child’s foot health.
The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact one of our podiatrists of Lakewood Family Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
- Make sure their shoes fit properly
- Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
- Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
- Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
- Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
- Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
- Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
- Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lakewood, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
