Flat feet is a condition in which the arch on the bottom of the midfoot region is absent. In infants and toddlers, the arch is not yet developed and having flat feet is typical. As the child ages, a normal arch usually develops. However, for some individuals the arch may not develop, and they will continue to have flat feet into adulthood. Flat feet will often be asymptomatic, not causing pain or any other problems. Unfortunately, some people can experience foot pain or discomfort due to their flat feet. People with flat feet are also more likely to have overpronation, a gait pattern in which the feet turn too far inward while walking. Overpronation can sometimes cause foot pain to develop. If you have flat feet and are experiencing foot discomfort or pain, it is recommended that you see a podiatrist for treatment.
Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact The podiatrists from Grand Haven Foot & 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
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 Grand Haven, MI. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that causes the feet to become dry and flaky. It is very contagious and can be spread from towels, floors, and even clothing. Combined with the fact that athlete's foot thrives in warm and moist environments, these infections are usually spread in showers, gym locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once the fungal spores have made it to the feet, they can enter any fissure or sore to begin spreading, unless the feet have been thoroughly washed and dried. If the patient touches or scratches the infection, they can spread it to other parts of their body as well. While foot hygiene is key to preventing an infection, patients who have already gotten athlete’s foot should consult with a podiatrist, since prescription medications may be necessary for treatment.
Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with The podiatrists from Grand Haven Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.
What Is Athlete’s Foot?
Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.
Prevention
The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:
Symptoms
Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Grand Haven, MI. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek the professional help of your podiatrist and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.
It is common for people to spend more time enjoying the outdoors when the weather is warm. However, falling episodes may not decrease while outside. There are many methods that can be implemented which can help to prevent falling. These can include wearing shoes that have rubber soles and flat heels, which can help to improve traction and stability. Additionally, keeping walkways and stairs free of clutter can help to prevent tripping. Walking with another person can be helpful, as they can assist you if you fall. Falling can affect the feet in numerous ways, and it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist for more fall prevention techniques.
Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with The podiatrists from Grand Haven Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.
Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.
How to Prevent Falls
Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:
Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Grand Haven, MI. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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