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If you are suffering from tenderness, pain, or stiffness in the joints of your feet or ankles, call us to schedule an appointment.
You have flat feet when the en
tire soles of your feet can touch the floor when you stand up. It is a very common and usually painless condition that occurs when the arches do not develop during childhood. It can also happen after an injury or from the stress brought upon by age. The majority of people that have flat feet will not show any signs or symptoms. Occasionally foot pain can surface in the heel or arch area. Flat feet is most common in infants and toddlers as the arches of their feet have yet to develop at this age. Most arches will develop throughout childhood, but there are some that will never develop them. Factors that can increase your risk of flat feet include obesity, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, injury to the foot or ankle and aging. If you are experiencing pain as a result of flat feet, it is advised that you consult with a podiatrist.
Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Bradley Seel, DPM from Arbor - Ypsi Foot & Ankle Centers. 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
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 Ann Arbor, MI. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Flat Feet
There are several bones, joints, and ligaments that the human foot is comprised of. When babies are born, their feet are flexible, and will gradually become stronger as walking begins. Babies are typically born with flat feet, and the arch generally develops as the feet become stronger. Research has indicated that it is beneficial for toddlers to walk barefoot while indoors, and this can help the toes to strengthen by grasping the floor. When the first pair of shoes are purchased, the feet should be properly measured, and this is helpful in determining the correct shoe size. It is important that the shoes have flat and flexible soles, in addition to ensuring that there is inadequate room for the toes to move freely in. If you would like more information about how to care for your child’s feet, please consult with a podiatrist.
Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Bradley Seel, DPM of Arbor - Ypsi Foot & Ankle Centers. Our doctor 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 our office located in Ann Arbor, MI. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about What to Do to Keep Your Child’s Feet Healthy
There are many people who spend the majority of their working day standing or walking. Research has indicated it is beneficial to wear shoes that fit properly, and this may help to prevent painful foot conditions from developing. It is helpful to make sure there is enough room for the toes to move freely in, and the feet will feel better when there is adequate cushioning and support. Resting the feet as frequently as possible may aid in reducing foot pain that comes from standing for extended periods of time. Additionally, it is important to choose shoes and socks that are made of breathable materials, as this can help to provide maximum comfort. Please consult with a podiatrist if you would like additional information about how to protect your feet while working.
While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Bradley Seel, DPM from Arbor - Ypsi Foot & Ankle Centers. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Working on Your Feet
Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.
Positive Changes
Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.
Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.
Eliminate Pain
Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.
Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen.
With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Ann Arbor, MI. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about How to Handle a Long Work Day on Your Feet
