The medical condition that is known as flat feet refers to feet that have low or absent arches. Most babies are born with this condition, and the arches will naturally develop as the feet become stronger. In some patients, the arches never develop, and this may cause pain and discomfort. The reasons why flat feet can develop may be from an injury that has occurred to the foot or ankle, or existing medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, obesity, or diabetes. The noticeable signs that you may have flat feet can include uneven wear and tear on your shoes, and your feet may feel weak and stiff. Relief can be obtained when shoes that are worn have adequate support, and gentle foot and calf stretches are frequently performed to improve flexibility. If you have this condition, it is important that you consult with a podiatrist who can prescribe custom-made orthotics, which may help to alleviate the pain associated with the  ailment.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from VIP Foot & Ankle 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 our office located in Pembroke Pines, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Your circulation system is responsible for sending blood, oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. The most common causes of poor circulation are obesity, diabetes, heart conditions and arterial issues. Symptoms of poor circulation include tingling, numbness, pain and muscle cramps. Blood clots and varicose veins are two internal issues that lead to poor circulation. Blood clots block the flow of blood either partially or entirely. If discovered too late, blood clots can prove to be deadly, as they can lead to stroke and even death in severe cases. Varicose veins are enlarged veins caused by valve failure. This causes the veins to be unable to move blood as efficiently which will make it very hard for the blood to circulate. Luckily, there are some ways that poor circulation can be treated and diagnosed. It can be diagnosed through a physical exam, blood sugar test for diabetes, ultrasound or CT scan, blood pressure test or antibody blood test. Some treatments include compression socks for painful, swollen feet and ankles, special exercise programs to increase circulation, medications such as blood thinners, and different clot-dissolving drugs. It is recommended to go see your podiatrist if you are experiencing any of the symptoms or have a condition that is known to be associated with poor circulation.

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact one of our podiatrists of VIP Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
• Pain
• Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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

If the skin on the heels becomes dry, a condition that is known as cracked heels may develop. Deep cuts in the skin, which are referred to as fissures, may cause pain and discomfort, and it may be difficult to put weight on the feet. Common reasons why cracked heels may develop can include standing for extended periods of time for the majority of the day, and wearing shoes that have an open back. Additionally, if there are existing medical conditions that often include psoriasis and eczema, the chances of developing this ailment may increase. Mild relief may be found when the feet are washed and dried, followed by using a good moisturizer. If you have severely cracked heels, it is strongly advised that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can guide you toward the proper prevention and treatment techniques.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from VIP Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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

Stress fractures are known to be small cracks in the bones. They develop as a result of repetitive movements that can come from participating in various sporting activities. Some of the symptoms that are associated with this condition include extreme tenderness in and around the affected area, and consistent pain that does not disappear with extended rest periods. Mild relief may be found when the sporting activity is ceased until the foot is completely healed. Many patients find wearing a cast or splint beneficial in accelerating the healing process, and taking pain medication can be useful in diminishing some of the pain and discomfort. Research has indicated stress fractures may be prevented by eating a diet that consists of foods that have adequate amounts of vitamin D and calcium. Additionally, it helps to properly stretch the leg and foot muscles before participating in a chosen sporting activity. If you have endured a stress fracture, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can guide you toward the correct treatment.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from VIP Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

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