Foot Pain and Pitfalls of Wearing Flat Shoes

While flat shoes may seem comfortable and stylish, they can contribute to foot pain and discomfort when worn regularly. Flat shoes lack the arch support and cushioning needed to properly distribute weight across the foot. Without adequate support, the foot can become strained, leading to conditions such as plantar fasciitis, heel pain, or metatarsalgia, pain in the ball of the foot. The lack of shock absorption in flat shoes can also cause added pressure on the joints, particularly in the knees and lower back, leading to discomfort and potential long-term pain. Additionally, flat shoes often offer limited stability, which can result in poor posture and alignment. Over time, this imbalance can cause muscle fatigue and soreness. To prevent foot pain, it is important to choose shoes with proper arch support and cushioning. If flat shoes are preferred, consider using orthotic insoles to provide extra support and reduce the risk of injury or discomfort. If you have foot pain from wearing flat shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief solutions, and guide you on proper shoes to wear.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, Oswego, and Cicero, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Why Foot Care Is Essential for Diabetic Patients

Diabetes can significantly impact the health of the feet, increasing the risk of nerve damage and poor circulation. Reduced sensation in the feet may make it difficult to detect minor injuries, which can develop into foot ulcers and serious infections. Decreased blood flow can further slow healing, leading to complications that may require advanced treatment, including surgery. Structural changes in the foot, such as hammertoes, can also increase pressure points, making the formation of ulcers more likely. A podiatrist plays an essential role in managing diabetic foot health by identifying potential risks, providing routine foot examinations, and treating any developing conditions before they become severe. Proper foot care, including wound management and wearing specialized footwear, can help protect against ulcers and infections. A podiatrist may also recommend solutions to relieve pressure on vulnerable areas and address foot deformities. If you are experiencing foot pain related to diabetes, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist for effective relief and management solutions.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

  • Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
  • Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
  • Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, Oswego, and Cicero, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Wounds That Don't Heal Need to Be Checked

Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.

Causes and Pain of Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful condition that affects the ball of the foot, typically between the third and fourth toes. It occurs when the tissue surrounding a nerve becomes thickened, causing irritation and pressure on the nerve. This condition often results from repeated irritation or injury to the foot. The main causes of Morton's neuroma include wearing tight, high-heeled shoes that squeeze the toes together, engaging in high-impact activities, and having certain foot abnormalities like flat feet or high arches. Symptoms of Morton's neuroma include sharp, burning pain, numbness, or a feeling of something being trapped in the ball of the foot. The pain typically worsens when standing, walking, or wearing tight shoes. In some cases, a tingling sensation or swelling may also occur. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat Morton’s neuroma.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, Oswego, and Cicero, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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How Weight Can Affect Your Feet

Excess weight can significantly affect the feet, toes, and ankles, as they bear the body’s weight during standing, walking, and other activities. Increased pressure on the feet can lead to pain, particularly in the heels and forefoot, as well as deformities like hammer toes, claw toes, and bunions. These issues may arise because excess weight can alter how weight is distributed across the foot, leading to strain on the arches and possibly resulting in flat feet. Over time, extra weight can also affect mobility and balance, making everyday tasks more challenging. Research suggests that the likelihood of experiencing foot pain increases with higher body mass index, or BMI. A podiatrist can perform a comprehensive evaluation to diagnose weight-related foot issues and offer treatment options to reduce pain, enhance mobility, and prevent further complications. If you have foot problems that may be related to your weight, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

The more you weigh, the harder your feet must work to support your body. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Obesity and Your Feet

People who are overweight are putting more pressure on their ankles, knees, and hips as well as their feet. This unfortunately can lead to variety of different issues.

Problems & Complications Stemming from Obesity

  • When the body is overweight, it tries to compensate by changing the way that it moves. An obese person may lean forward and put extra weight on the wrong part of the foot. This puts unnecessary stress on the feet.
  • Obese people are also more likely to develop type II diabetes which is a condition that causes a lot of foot problems. People with diabetes often don’t feel the cuts and sores that they may have on their feet, which can lead to more complicated and severe issues.
  • Plantar fasciitis is another foot condition that can be caused by obesity. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot, which causes pain and stiffness while walking and climbing stairs.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, Oswego, and Cicero, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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