Flat feet, or fallen arches, occur when the arches of the feet collapse, causing the entire sole to touch the ground. While some individuals have flat feet from childhood, others may develop them later in life. A primary cause of flat feet is genetics. If your parents or grandparents had flat feet, there is a higher likelihood of inheriting the condition. Additionally, injuries or stress to the feet's tendons and ligaments or standing for long periods of time can lead to flat feet. Symptoms may include foot pain, swelling, and difficulty with movement. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to reconstruct the arches. To accurately diagnose the extent of flat feet and determine what the most effective treatment plan is, it is important to consult a podiatrist. They can provide expert assessment, recommend appropriate interventions like custom orthotics, and ensure ongoing management to alleviate symptoms and improve foot function. It is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for personalized care and relief from flat feet.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Kimberly Woodard, DPM from Pinnacle Foot and Ankle Centers, LLC . 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 our office located in Port St. Lucie, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Gout, a type of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leads to sudden and severe pain, swelling, and redness, usually in the big toe. Hyperuricemia, a condition characterized by high levels of uric acid in the blood, is closely linked to developing gout. Factors such as diet, genetics, and certain medications can contribute to elevated uric acid levels. Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet low in purines, controlled hydration, and managing weight can help decrease the severity of gout attacks. Acute gout attacks can be triggered by dietary choices, alcohol consumption, and stress. Medications to lower uric acid levels or reduce inflammation may be prescribed by a podiatrist to manage gout symptoms effectively. If you experience any symptoms of gout, regular consultations with a podiatrist are suggested to provide personalized treatment plans and improve foot health.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Kimberly Woodard, DPM from Pinnacle Foot and Ankle Centers, LLC . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Port St. Lucie, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Heel pain, often linked to conditions such as plantar fasciitis, is a prevalent complaint that affects the bottom or back of the heel. This pain typically results from inflammation, overuse, or injury to the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that supports the arch of the foot. Factors contributing to heel pain include excessive walking or standing, wearing improper footwear, obesity, and age-related changes. The pain is usually sharp and most intense during the first steps in the morning or after long periods of rest. It can significantly interfere with daily activities, making walking, exercising, and even standing difficult. Diagnosis involves a physical examination, patient history, and sometimes imaging tests like X-rays or MRI scans to rule out fractures or other issues. Treatment typically includes rest, anti-inflammatory medications, and stretching exercises. Custom orthotics and targeted stretching exercises may also be recommended. If you have persistent or severe heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for specialized care and treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Kimberly Woodard, DPM of Pinnacle Foot and Ankle Centers, LLC . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Port St. Lucie, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.