October 2019

Living with foot pain is hard on your body.  Give us a call and let us find out what's wrong.

Have you recently gone on vacation, and walked more than you usually do at home on a day to day basis? Do you now have pain in your ankle or foot? Stress fractures don’t only occur in people who run and exercise daily, because anyone is at risk. Typically, this type of injury can be caused by a sudden increase in physical activity. Examples are an increase in exercise frequency, running on a different surface, and even changing your shoes can all be causes of a stress fracture. A stress fracture is a small crack in a bone, or severe bruising within a bone. To prevent stress fractures, it is suggested that you implement a proper nutrition regiment, wear shoes that fit correctly, and start slowly when beginning any new exercise routine. If you believe you have a stress fracture, it is strongly advised to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. Prior to your appointment, it is suggested that you  elevate your foot which may help to relieve swelling.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from The Podiatry Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Richmond and Glen Allen, VA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

If arthritis is present in the feet, it may change the way an individual walks. This condition affects the joints in the feet, and it may be difficult to walk on specific surfaces. There are a variety of reasons why this ailment may occur. These can consist of injuries that have occurred to the foot, existing structural problems, or genetic factors. One of the most common forms of arthritis in the feet is known as osteoarthritis, and this typically affects older people. Additional types of arthritis can include gout and rheumatoid arthritis. The symptoms that are often associated with this condition can consist of limited mobility in the joints, severe pain and discomfort, and the affected area of the foot may feel warm and appear red. Moderate relief may be felt when the proper shoes are worn. These can include choosing shoes that have ample room for the toes to move freely in, and it is beneficial to wear shoes that have an enclosed heel. This can help to provide maximum support and stability. If you are afflicted with arthritic feet, it is strongly suggested that you seek the advice of a podiatrist who can guide you toward proper treatment options.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from The Podiatry Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Richmond and Glen Allen, VA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The medical condition that is referred to as flat feet is also known as fallen or collapsed arches. This can occur as a result of an injury that has happened to the foot, genetic factors, or medical reasons that may include arthritis or pregnancy. Patients may experience pain and discomfort as a result of having this ailment, and it may affect the overall alignment of the body. Research has indicated there are stretches that can be performed which may be helpful in strengthening the feet. An effective way to stretch the heel is to extend one leg behind the other. As the heels are pressing into the floor, the heels and Achilles tendon are stretched. Some patients also find that it helps to roll their feet on top of a tennis or golf ball. This may help to stretch and strengthen the plantar fascia. If you have flat feet and would like additional information about how to perform stretches, please consult with a podiatrist.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from The Podiatry Center. 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 Richmond and Glen Allen, VA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Babies feet are generally flexible when they are born. There are numerous bones, joints, and ligaments that hold the feet together, and will become stronger as walking begins. This typically happens between eight and eighteen months of age. Research has indicated it is beneficial to have your children walk barefoot while they are indoors. The overall strength of the foot may be developed as a result of the grasping action the toes will provide. When it is time to walk outside, wearing the proper footwear will help the child to balance as the feet become stronger. These shoes should consist of having soles that are flexible and flat, and it is recommended that there is adequate room for the toes to move freely in. If you notice your child’s feet are turning inward or outward, it is advised to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can properly assess your child’s feet.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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