Pain in the arch of the foot can arise from various factors, significantly impacting mobility and comfort. Weight gain places additional stress on the arches, leading to discomfort and inflammation. Aging is another contributor, as the natural cushioning and elasticity of the foot decrease over time, making the arches more susceptible to strain. Overuse, particularly from high-impact activities or inadequate footwear, can also cause arch pain. To alleviate discomfort, incorporating gentle stretches into a daily routine is beneficial. Stretching the calves and plantar fascia can help improve flexibility and reduce tension in the arch. Additionally, strengthening exercises for the foot muscles can provide better support. Paying attention to proper footwear and maintaining a healthy weight can also contribute to long-term relief. If you have pain in the arch of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is and offer appropriate relief methods.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Kelly Whaley, DPM from Ohio. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Pes planus, commonly known as flat feet, is the absence of a normal arch in the foot, causing the entire sole to make contact with the ground. This condition affects foot dynamics by altering the distribution of weight and pressure during movement, which can lead to pain and discomfort in the feet, ankles, and even knees. There are two main types of pes planus, known as flexible and fixed. Flexible flat feet allow for some arch formation when not bearing weight, while fixed flat feet maintain a flat appearance regardless of weight bearing. Individuals with pes planus may experience altered gait patterns, increasing the risk of overuse injuries. If your flat feet are causing you discomfort, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Kelly Whaley, DPM from Ohio. 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 Willoughby, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Flat feet, or pes planus, occur when the arches of the feet are flattened, causing the entire sole to make contact with the ground. This can result in pain and cause difficulties with walking. In some cases, people with flat feet may benefit from surgical correction. Flat foot reconstruction aims to reshape the foot by repairing or realigning the bones, tendons, and ligaments to support the arch. The specific technique used can vary, based on such factors as the patient’s anatomy and the severity of their symptoms. While flatfoot surgery often results in improved mobility and relief from pain, the recovery process can take several months and may require the use of a cast or orthopedic boot. A podiatrist can determine if non-surgical treatments are still viable or if surgery is the best course of action. If you have foot problems related to flat feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Kelly Whaley, DPM of Ohio. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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