Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, occur when the arch of the foot collapses, causing the entire sole to make contact with the ground. This condition can be congenital, meaning some individuals are born with flat feet, or it can develop over time due to factors like aging, injury, or certain medical conditions. It can also be caused by overuse, particularly in athletes or individuals who stand for long periods of time. To test for flat feet, one simple method is the wet test, where a person steps on a wet surface and then onto a dry one, leaving an imprint of their foot. If the arch is absent or very small, it may indicate flat feet. Effective exercises for flat feet focus on strengthening the foot muscles and improving flexibility. These may include toe curls, arch lifts, and calf stretches. Wearing supportive footwear and using orthotics can also help manage the condition. If you have flat feet, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief techniques.
Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Brian D. Jackson, DPM from Neuhaus Foot and Ankle. Our doctor 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 Columbia and Pulaski, TN. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Chronic ankle pain and instability often result from repeated ankle injuries, creating a cycle of pain, weakness, and a fear of reinjury. Those affected may experience a sensation of the ankle giving way, soreness, and swelling that make daily activities challenging. This condition frequently affects athletes or active individuals who have had multiple sprains, weakening the ligaments, and leaving the joint unstable. It can also affect older people more. Causes include ligament damage, insufficient healing, or scar tissue buildup, and it is more common in those with high-impact lifestyles or a history of untreated ankle injuries. Without proper care, chronic ankle instability can lead to cartilage damage and arthritis over time. Treatment may include targeted exercise and bracing. In persistent cases, surgery might be considered. If you have chronic ankle pain and instability, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can help develop a personalized treatment plan to restore stability and reduce the risk of future injuries.
Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Brian D. Jackson, DPM from Neuhaus Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.
Causes
The most common causes of ankle pain include:
Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
Ankle sprains
Broken ankles
Achilles tendinitis
Achilles tendon rupture
Stress fractures
Tarsal tunnel syndrome
Plantar fasciitis
Symptoms
Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.
Diagnosis
Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Columbia and Pulaski, TN. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Skiing can place significant strain on the ankles, often leading to soreness or pain, particularly for those unaccustomed to the activity or wearing poorly fitting boots. The repetitive flexing and rotational demands of skiing can stress the ankle joints, ligaments, and supporting muscles. Ankle pain from skiing may result from overuse, improper alignment in ski boots, or injuries such as sprains or strains. Pain often affects the tendons and muscles that stabilize the joint, sometimes accompanied by swelling or difficulty bearing weight. A podiatrist can assess your ankle pain to determine its cause, whether it stems from biomechanical issues, improper equipment, or soft tissue injury. Treatment may involve improving joint stability, recommending supportive footwear, or addressing specific conditions to reduce pain and prevent further complications. If you experience ankle pain after skiing, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.
Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Brian D. Jackson, DPM from Neuhaus Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Common Injuries
The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:
Achilles Tendonitis
Achilles Tendon Rupture
Ankle Sprains
Broken Foot
Plantar Fasciitis
Stress Fractures
Turf Toe
Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.
Treatment
Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Columbia and Pulaski, TN. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!
