Flat feet is a fairly common foot condition. The foot appears to be flatter on the sole than it should be, as a result of a dropped arch. Many people experience discomfort from having flat feet, and other areas of the body may become affected. The majority of babies are born with flat feet, and the arch generally develops in the teenage years. This may occur in some adults, which may be for genetic reasons. Additionally, existing medical conditions may lead to developing flat feet. These can include obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and certain types of arthritis. It is beneficial for adults who have flat feet to rest after exercising, and it may help to wear custom made orthotics that can mimic the arch of the foot. There may be specific stretches to perform that may help the achiness of having flat feet. If you have this condition, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can help you with possible remedies for this ailment.
Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. Catherine J. Minnick from Illinois. 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 offices located in Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
The area of the body that podiatrists treat are the feet, ankles, and lower legs. Common foot conditions can include plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, and diabetic foot wounds. Most podiatrists also perform foot surgery, which may include foot or ankle reconstruction. There are strict education requirements that must be completed to obtain a Doctorate in Podiatric Medicine. First, a bachelor’s degree, followed by a four-year podiatric medical school program. After medical school, a three-year residency must be completed, which provides hands-on learning in a hospital setting. If you are interested in pursuing a career in podiatry, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can answer questions and help you determine if podiatry is the right field for you.
If you are dealing with pain in your feet and ankles, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to contact Dr. Catherine J. Minnick from Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is a Podiatrist?
A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine who diagnoses and treats conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Your podiatrist may specialize in a certain field such as sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics, and diabetic care. Podiatrists have the ability to become board certified through training, clinical experience, and then taking an exam.
What Do Podiatrists Do?
On a daily basis, a podiatrist may perform the following activities:
It is very important that you take care of your feet. It’s easy to take having healthy feet for granted, however foot problems tend to be among the most common health conditions. Podiatrists can help diagnose and treat a variety of feet related conditions, so it is crucial that you visit one if you need assistance.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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Taking care of your children’s feet during infancy and early childhood can do a lot to help them have healthy feet as they grow. When a child shows signs of or complains of foot pain, it is wise to take them to a podiatrist to have their feet evaluated for possible problems. While children are born without arches and usually do not experience symptoms from this while they are in development, sometimes having flat feet can cause them to have problems participating in physical activities, impact their gait, or cause them pain or cramping in their feet, legs, or knees. Sever’s disease is an inflammation of the heel growth plate that can cause pain. This condition affects kids between 8 and 14 years of age or until the heel bone fully develops. Ingrown toenails can develop in children from wearing shoes that are too tight, cutting their toenails improperly, or a genetic predisposition. With this, a toenail can grow into the skin and a serious infection can result. These are just some of the problems that parents can encounter with their children’s feet. If you want to be educated on how to best care for growing feet or find that your child has foot issues, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can answer your questions and treat foot problems that arise.
Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Dr. Catherine J. Minnick of Illinois. 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 offices located in Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
