Adult-acquired flat feet, also known as posterior tibial tendon dysfunction, is a condition where the arches of the feet gradually collapse over time. Unlike flat feet in children, which often resolve as they age, adult-acquired flat feet typically develop due to the weakening of the posterior tibial tendon, which is a crucial structure that supports the arch. This weakening can occur due to various factors, including injury, overuse, obesity, or simply the natural aging process. As the tendon loses its strength, the arch begins to flatten, leading to pain, swelling, and instability in the foot and ankle. Left untreated, adult-acquired flat feet can result in further complications such as arthritis or deformities in the foot's structure. Diagnosis often involves a thorough physical examination and may include imaging studies like X-rays or MRI scans. If you have flat feet, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a chiropodist who can help you manage this foot condition.

Flat feet are a common foot condition. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort due to flat feet, please consult with Chiropodist Stephanie Poupore from North Bay Foot & Ankle. Our clinician will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

What Are Flat Feet? 

Flat feet are feet that do not have a well-defined arch in the middle of the sole of the foot. Flat feet may be flexible or rigid. Flexible flat feet have an arch when there is no pressure put on the foot, such as when one is sitting, but the arch disappears upon standing. Rigid flat feet lack an arch regardless of whether one is standing or not. 

Causes

Flat feet can be present from birth or acquired over time due to a weakening of the ligaments in the arch. Sometimes flat feet are caused by illnesses, injuries, or pregnancy. 

Symptoms

Flat feet often cause no noticeable symptoms. However, some people may experience pain and discomfort due to their flat feet. 

Symptoms associated with flat feet include:

• Pain in the arch, heel, ankle, or along the outside of the foot

• Overpronation of the foot

• Shin splints

• Aching or fatigue in the feet or legs

• Pain in the knees, hips, or lower back

Treatment 

In cases where flat feet cause symptoms, there are various treatments available. Wearing orthotic inserts in your shoes to provide more arch support, performing stretches, and taking medications may improve your symptoms. If you are overweight, losing weight can help relieve pressure on the feet. In severe cases, surgery may be considered. 

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

Bowling is a fun leisure activity enjoyed by people of all ages, but it can lead to various foot and ankle injuries if proper precautions are not taken. The repetitive motion of bowling, combined with the force exerted on the feet during delivery, can strain muscles, ligaments, and tendons, leading to conditions like plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and ankle sprains. These injuries often result from poor technique, inadequate warm-up, or wearing improper footwear. To prevent bowling-related foot and ankle injuries, wear well-fitted bowling shoes with proper support and cushioning, warm up before bowling, and practice proper bowling form to minimize strain on the feet and ankles. If you experience persistent foot or ankle pain after bowling, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for evaluation and treatment.

Injuries to the foot and ankle are very common among athletes. If you have experienced an injury, please consult with Chiropodist Stephanie Poupore from North Bay Foot & Ankle. Our clinician will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

Common Injuries Among Athletes: 

• Achilles tendon injuries

• Ankle strains or sprains

• Plantar fasciitis

• Fractures

• Turf toe 

• Joint dislocations

• Sever’s disease

• Morton’s neuroma

Symptoms

Symptoms will depend on the cause and severity of the injury. Common symptoms for a foot or ankle injury include pain, swelling, tenderness, bruising, a reduced range of motion, and difficulty bearing weight or walking on the affected foot or ankle. 

Diagnosis

Sports injuries are typically diagnosed after carefully examining the affected foot or ankle. This includes moving the injured area to test its range of motion. Medical history will need to be provided, as well as detailed information about how the injury occurred. Imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRIs, may be used to confirm or rule out certain diagnoses. 

Treatment

Just like symptoms, treatment will depend on the type of injury and its severity. Initial treatment for many sports injuries is aimed at controlling inflammation and promoting the healing response. The acronym R.I.C.E is a helpful guide to implement for most acute injuries. This method involves resting, icing, compressing, and elevating the affected foot or ankle. In addition, anti-inflammatory medications may be administered and orthotic devices may be prescribed. For more severe injuries, surgery may be required. Lastly, rehabilitation or physical therapy may be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area.

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

Cracked heels, medically known as heel fissures, refer to the splitting or fissuring of the skin around the heels. This common foot condition can be painful and unsightly, affecting both the appearance and functionality of the feet. Cracked heels often occur when the skin becomes dry, thickened, and lacking in moisture, leading to the formation of deep cracks or splits. Several risk factors contribute to the development of cracked heels, including prolonged standing or walking, wearing open-back shoes or sandals, and obesity. Additionally, diabetes, aging, and certain medical conditions such as eczema or psoriasis may lead to developing cracked heels. Environmental factors like cold weather and low humidity levels can exacerbate dry skin, making it more prone to cracking. Neglecting proper foot care, such as inadequate moisturizing, can worsen the condition. By understanding the definition and risk factors associated with cracked heels, individuals can take proactive steps to prevent and treat this uncomfortable foot ailment. If you have cracked heels, it is suggested that you visit a chiropodist sooner rather than later who can provide effective relief methods, which may include prescribed medication.

Dry, cracked heels are more than a cosmetic inconvenience. For many people, they are uncomfortable, deep, painful, and may even bleed. If you suffer from cracked heels, please consult with Chiropodist Stephanie Poupore from North Bay Foot & Ankle. Our clinician can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Causes

• Prolonged standing

• Wearing open-back shoes

• Wearing shoes that don’t cushion the heels

• Living in a cold or dry climate

• Taking long, hot showers

• Not moisturizing the heels

• Eczema

• Psoriasis

• Palmoplantar keratoderma

• Juvenile plantar dermatosis

Treatments

• Soaking the feet

• Exfoliating with a pumice stone

• Moisturizing the heels

• Wearing closed-back shoes that cushion heels

• Avoiding prolonged standing 

• Taking warm, rather than hot, showers

• Treating underlying skin conditions 

While milder cases of cracked heels can be treated at home, some patients present with deep, painful, bleeding heel fissures that are at risk of becoming infected and may require medical care. Additionally, patients with diabetes or any other conditions that affect the immune system should be monitored by a chiropodist. 

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