January 2018

Flat feet is a condition that often refers to the arch appearing flat while walking or standing. It’s a natural condition commonly seen in infants and young children, and it will often correct itself as the foot becomes stronger. Occasional pain is associated with flat feet and is usually noticed while walking or running. The entire foot may feel pain and discomfort, or it may be in a specific area. It’s important to note if your child is experiencing these symptoms, as the condition may affect the structure of the growing foot. It’s possible that this condition may stem from underlying causes including certain forms of muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, or a predisposed inherited disorder. If the child is heavy in weight, obesity may be a contributing factor due to the additional weight placed on the feet. The condition typically does not require treatment unless the pain is affecting daily activities. If you think your child may have flat feet or is experiencing pain, please consider a consultation with a podiatrist.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Kellvan Cheng, DPM from Elite 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 Carrollton, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

An abnormality in which a bony bump forms on the big toe of your foot can be referred to as a bunion. The bone in your big toe is typically deformed and generally causes pain and discomfort. Choosing shoes with enough room in the toe area may prevent bunions from worsening, allowing the toes to feel less restricted. Wide shoes with a low heel are often recommended. Ways to ease the pain a bunion produces can include putting ice on it for a few minutes and placing a soft pad in your shoe. This can help decrease or completely remove friction that frequently occurs as the bunion rubs against the shoe. If daily activities are being affected by the pain a bunion causes, see a podiatrist for treatment.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Kellvan Cheng, DPM of Elite Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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

If the nerve between one of the toes becomes irritated and inflamed, it’s most commonly referred to as a condition called Morton’s neuroma. Middle-aged women may be more affected than men, possibly because of high heels being worn or shoes fitting too tightly. Jogging may also put pressure on the toes, so runners may be affected as well. Occasionally, other conditions can cause Morton’s neuroma, which typically may include flat feet or bunions. There may be several treatments for this ailment, including massaging and resting the foot, utilizing orthotic devices, which may help to relieve pressure, and choosing a shoe with a wider toe. For patients who experience severe pain, surgery may be an option; part of the nerve may be removed or the space around the nerve may be increased. Please consult a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and the best treatment option available for you.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Kellvan Cheng, DPM of Elite Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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