Flat feet, a common condition characterized by a lack of arch in the foot, can potentially affect the physical performance of school-age children. While flat feet themselves may not directly hinder a child's ability to engage in physical activities, they can contribute to issues such as foot pain, fatigue, and decreased stability. Children with flat feet may experience discomfort or cramping during prolonged periods of standing or walking, impacting their participation in sports or physical education classes. Furthermore, flat feet may alter the biomechanics of the lower limbs, leading to poor posture, balance problems, and an increased risk of injury. Addressing flat feet early on through proper footwear, orthotic inserts, and targeted exercises can help alleviate symptoms and improve physical performance in children. By recognizing the potential impact of flat feet on physical activity, parents and educators can take proactive steps to support the overall well-being and participation of school-age children in various physical pursuits. If your child has flat feet, it is suggested that a podiatrist is contacted who can offer effective relief and treatment methods.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our doctors from Favor Foot Ankle Leg & Wound Center. Our doctors 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 South Amboy, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Swollen feet, an uncomfortable condition, can stem from various factors, necessitating attention and understanding to alleviate symptoms effectively. One common cause is prolonged standing or sitting, which can impair circulation and lead to fluid retention in the feet and ankles. Additionally, injuries such as sprains or fractures may result in localized swelling as the body responds to tissue damage. Certain medical conditions, including venous insufficiency and lymphedema, disrupt the normal flow of fluids in the body, contributing to swelling in the lower extremities. Lifestyle factors like excessive salt intake, obesity, and dehydration can exacerbate fluid retention and swelling in the feet. Pregnancy often leads to swollen feet due to hormonal changes and increased pressure on the blood vessels. If your feet have become swollen, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer appropriate treatment solutions.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our doctors of Favor Foot Ankle Leg & Wound Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

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

Toenail fungus, medically known as onychomycosis, quietly lurks in the shadows of our nails, often unnoticed until it progresses to more severe stages. In its infancy, this fungal infection may exhibit subtle signs that easily escape attention. One common indicator is a slight discoloration of the nail, typically appearing as a yellow or white spot beneath the tip. As the fungus infiltrates deeper into the nail bed, the nail may become thickened or brittle, making it prone to crumbling or flaking. Additionally, affected nails may develop a distorted shape or exhibit a foul odor. Although these symptoms may seem inconsequential at first glance, they serve as crucial warning signs of an underlying fungal infection. Recognizing and addressing toenail fungus in its early stages is paramount for successful treatment. Consulting a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and personalized management strategies can halt the progression of the infection and restore nail health. If you begin to see signs of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist sooner rather than later who can effectively treat this condition.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact one of our doctors of Favor Foot Ankle Leg & Wound Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

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

Sever's disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is a common condition affecting children and adolescents, particularly those engaged in physical activities such as running or jumping. It occurs when the growth plate at the back of the heel bone becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress or tension. The growth plate, known as the calcaneal apophysis, is a vulnerable area where new bone forms as children grow. Common causes of Sever's disease include overuse, rapid growth spurts, and participation in high-impact sports that place excessive strain on the heel bone. Symptoms typically include heel pain, especially during physical activity or when pressing the affected area. Children may also experience swelling and tenderness at the back of the heel. Those participating in sports or activities involving repetitive pounding on hard surfaces are at higher risk of developing Sever's disease. If you notice your active child has heel pain or is limping, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat Sever’s disease and other foot problems.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our doctors from Favor Foot Ankle Leg & Wound Center. Our doctors can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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

Selecting the right running shoes for women is essential for a comfortable injury-free running experience. When considering footwear, it is important to understand one's foot type and running style. Women should prioritize shoes that offer adequate support and cushioning, tailored to their unique needs. Assessing factors like arch height, pronation, and foot width helps to make the best selection. For individuals with low arches stability shoes provide support, while neutral shoes suit those with normal arches. Additionally, women with high arches benefit from shoes that offer extra cushioning and flexibility. The shoe's fit should feel snug yet allow room for natural foot movement. Investing in quality footwear that aligns with your specific biomechanics enhances comfort and reduces the risk of injury, enabling women to enjoy their runs to the fullest. If you are purchasing running shoes, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to select the appropriate pair.

You should always make sure your running shoes fit properly in order to avoid injury. For more information, contact one of our doctors from Favor Foot Ankle Leg & Wound Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

Improper shoe sizing can cause a myriad of problems for your feet. Shoes that don’t fit you properly can lead to muscular imbalances in your body, which can result in foot, knee, and hip injuries.

Tips for Finding the Right Running Shoe

• Make sure you have a thumb’s width of wiggle room between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
• There should be little to no slipping at the heel
• Don’t assume your size in one shoe brand will be your size in another
• Do not lace up your shoes too tightly
• Walk around in the store with your new shoes before you buy them

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