Items filtered by date: February 2024

Living with flat feet, a condition characterized by the absence of arches on the feet, can be a lifelong experience starting in childhood. When someone with flat feet stands, their entire foot touches the ground, though in most cases, it does not lead to harm. However, some individuals may experience symptoms such as swollen ankles, difficulty standing on their toes, or pain in the foot arch area. Identifying these signs, particularly in children, is important for early intervention. While flat feet can be a natural part of a child's development, it can also develop later in life from age related factors. Seeking medical attention involves a comprehensive examination, where a podiatrist may recommend custom shoe inserts and certain exercises to alleviate discomfort. In severe cases, surgery may be considered. Home care includes minimizing stress on the feet, weight management, and, if necessary, pain relief measures. If you are experiencing discomfort related to flat feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a full exam and suggested treatment measures.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Carrie Frame, DPM from West Virginia Foot & Ankle. 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 Charleston, WV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Corns and calluses are thickened skin areas caused by pressure, often occurring on the feet. They result from a natural skin defense mechanism called hyperkeratosis. Calluses are flat and spread out, while corns are thick, localized, and can have a conical shape. Corns may appear dry or translucent and are also known as helomas or clavi, while calluses are called tylomas. Common areas for corns to develop can include the sole of the foot, the outside of the pinky toe, and between the 4th and 5th toes. Corns between the toes are termed soft corns, while those in other locations are hard corns. Hyperkeratosis occurs when the skin thickens due to friction or pressure, often related to foot deformities, wearing tight shoes, or abnormal walking patterns. Risk factors include foot anatomy, gait issues, bunions, ill-fitting shoes, and certain occupations. If you have a corn or callus that becomes bothersome or shows signs of infection, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can examine the area, provide treatment for relief, and help you find underlying causes for their development.

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Carrie Frame, DPM of West Virginia Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:

• Well-fitting socks
• Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
• Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctor to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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

Clubfoot, a congenital foot condition, is a complex deformity that affects the structure and positioning of a newborn's foot or feet. This condition is characterized by abnormalities in the tendons, muscles, and bones, resulting in a twisted and abnormally shaped foot. Understanding the classifications of clubfoot is essential for effective management. The first classification, talipes equinovarus, involves the foot turning downward and inward. Talipes varus, the second type, sees the foot turning inward. Talipes valgus, the third classification, features an outward-turning foot. Lastly, talipes calcaneovalgus is characterized by an extended foot turned outward. Each classification poses unique challenges and requires specific treatment approaches. Early intervention is key, often involving gentle manipulation, casting, and sometimes surgical correction. If your child has been born with clubfoot, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can guide you to a comprehensive treatment plan.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Carrie Frame, DPM of West Virginia Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.

What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?

A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.

What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?

Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:

• Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
• Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
• Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
• Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
• Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
• Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Treatment and Prevention

While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Charleston, WV . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Foot arthritis, a condition marked by inflammation of the joints, can be challenging, but incorporating targeted exercises into your routine can offer relief and improve mobility. Toe taps, where you gently tap your toes on the floor, promote flexibility and circulation in the joints. Ankle circles, rotating your ankles in both directions, can help to maintain joint mobility. Towel curls involve scrunching a towel with your toes, which can strengthen the muscles in your feet. Toe stretches, where you use your hands to gently stretch your toes, can alleviate tension. Additionally, calf stretches and heel raises contribute to overall foot strength and stability. Water exercises, such as gentle swimming or water aerobics, provide a low-impact yet effective workout. It is important to be consistent as these gentle exercises can play a significant role in managing foot arthritis, fostering flexibility, and enhancing the overall well-being of your feet. If you would like to learn about additional stretches that can help foot arthritis, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Carrie Frame, DPM from West Virginia Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

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