Items filtered by date: March 2021

Childhood obesity can precipitate a host of childhood development and health issues, with foot pain being high on the list. A child carrying extra weight is more prone to developing flat feet, calf or arch pain, stress fractures, and problems with the heel such as plantar fasciitis, hairline fissures, and inflammation where the growth plate and Achilles tendon meet (Sever’s disease). Some children may have foot conditions they inherited or were born with, which can be exacerbated by excess weight. However, losing weight can be difficult for obese children because physical activity can make their foot pain worse, making regular exercise difficult or even impossible. A podiatrist may be able to help with orthotics and other strategies to relieve foot pain, correct alignment, and treat any underlying foot or ankle disorders.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Dan Kirk, DPM of Bluffton Foot & Ankle. 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 Bluffton and Celina, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Orthotics are specially designed shoe inserts that help correct imbalances and provide additional support to the feet. They can be purchased over the counter or be custom made by a podiatrist. Orthotics can help provide relief from a variety of conditions such as corns, calluses, ulcerations, tendonitis, heel pain, recurring stress fractures, and even hip and lower back pain. Since orthotics are designed to address specific problems, they can work in various ways that include relieving pressure by redistributing body weight or by providing extra shock absorption. Patients who believe that orthotics may help relieve their foot and ankle issues should consult with a podiatrist. A podiatrist looks at a variety of factors, such as the foot’s structure and function, biomechanics and lifestyle factors, to determine the right fit for each individual patient.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Dan Kirk, DPM from Bluffton Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Bluffton and Celina, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune condition that can cause swelling, pain, stiffness, and a reduced range of motion in any joint in the body. RA often affects the small joints of the feet and the ankle joint. In the front of the foot, the big toe joint is often affected. This can lead to difficulty walking, as the big toe joint bears the body’s weight. In the back of the foot, the three joints responsible for side to side movements of the foot can be affected and can make walking on any uneven surface very difficult. When the ankle is affected, the ability to climb stairs or ramps may be impaired. RA can also cause rheumatoid nodules to form on the feet, which can painfully rub against the shoes while walking. If you have RA in your feet or ankles, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you manage this condition.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact Dan Kirk, DPM of Bluffton Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

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

The ligaments in the ankle connect the bones to each other and provide stability to the ankle. When these ligaments are torn or stretched due to an accidental twist or roll of the ankle, a sprain can occur. Ankle sprains are some of the most common injuries that occur in sports that require quick changes in direction such as soccer, football, and basketball. Athletes who have had an ankle sprain before are at a higher risk for developing them again. Patients who believe they may have an ankle sprain should consult with a podiatrist. A podiatrist will examine the ankle and take X-rays to make sure that it is not broken. While most ankle sprains are treated with anti-inflammatory medications, ice, and supportive devices, a podiatrist will be able to determine the right treatment for you.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Dan Kirk, DPM from Bluffton Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

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

When shopping for walking shoes, a good fit is the most important quality to look for in the shoe you’re interested in. A properly fitted walking shoe can prevent a host of foot problems, from blisters or bruises to plantar fasciitis. A properly fitted walking shoe should fit your entire foot snuggly but is not be too tight in any area. There should be enough room in the toe area for you to splay out your toes slightly, and there should also be about a finger’s width of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. Look for shoes that fit not only the length and width of your foot, but also the height, or volume or thickness, of your foot. Volume can be slightly adjusted by the way you lace your walking shoes. To help you find the walking shoes that fit you best, it is suggested that you get a proper shoe fitting in a shoe store. For more information about the importance of wearing properly fitted shoes, please consult with a podiatrist. 

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Dan Kirk, DPM from Bluffton Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

• Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
• Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
• Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
• Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

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