Understanding your child's foot problems is important for early detection and intervention. Sever’s disease, medically known as calcaneal apophysitis, usually affects children ages eight to 14, especially those who are physically active. It is caused by inflammation of the heel growth plate and aggravated by repetitive stress from sports participation. Ingrown toenails in children often result from wearing ill-fitting shoes paired with improper nail cutting. Treatment from a podiatrist and proper shoe fitting changes may be necessary. Intoeing, characterized by walking with inward-turned feet, may require stretching exercises or casting under the guidance of a podiatrist. Metatarsus adductus is a congenital foot deformity that causes the front half of the foot, or forefoot, to turn inward, but typically resolves itself without treatment. However, regular visits to a podiatrist for monitoring are suggested. Pediatric flat feet, while common in babies and toddlers, may warrant intervention to ensure proper arch development if the arch fails to appear with growth. Plantar warts, caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV, can be painful and affect mobility. If your child has any of these conditions, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for periodic exams and treatment as needed. 

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Centers of Charlotte County . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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

Foot pain among older adults is a common issue, often caused by wearing improper footwear and physical changes in the feet as a result of aging. Wearing ill-fitting shoes, such as those that are too small, narrow, or high-heeled, can lead to discomfort and an increased risk of falls. Over time, the natural cushioning under the heel and ball of the foot decreases and arches become flatter, all of which can contribute to foot pain. Furthermore, as the joints in the feet stiffen and skin becomes drier, vulnerability to foot infections increases. Many underlying health conditions, including diabetes, arthritis, neuropathy, poor circulation, and obesity can add to foot problems in older adults. A podiatrist can help to determine the cause or causes of foot pain in seniors, and is followed by a suggested program of treatment. Options may include wearing proper footwear, prescribing foot exercises, and creating custom orthotic devices to reduce the foot pain. If you are experiencing foot problems associated with aging, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Centers of Charlotte County . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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

Foot orthotics are invaluable tools in addressing a range of foot and lower limb issues, from soft tissue injuries to neurological changes and bony injuries. These custom shoe inserts provide support, stability, and alignment, aiding in the rehabilitation and prevention of various conditions. For soft tissue injuries like plantar fasciitis, orthotics can alleviate strain by redistributing pressure and providing cushioning. In cases of bone injury such as stress fractures, orthotics can offer support and minimize excessive motion that could exacerbate the injury. Additionally, for individuals experiencing neurological changes like drop foot, orthotics can assist in maintaining proper foot position and facilitating a more natural gait pattern. The decision on the type of orthotic needed involves a thorough assessment of the individual's impairments, functional goals, and injury protection requirements. Factors such as foot structure, biomechanics, activity level, and footwear preferences are considered to tailor orthotics specifically to the individual's needs, ensuring optimal support and rehabilitation. If you have persistent foot problems or injuries, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to see if custom-made orthotics can help you.

Our feet carry us through every part of life, absorbing the impact of thousands of steps each day. When they are not properly supported, the effects can extend far beyond the feet themselves. Custom orthotics provide the foundation the body needs by aligning, cushioning, and stabilizing each foot in its most natural position. They are carefully crafted to match the unique structure of each individual’s feet, allowing them to move efficiently and comfortably while reducing stress on the muscles, joints, and ligaments.

Proper foot support is essential for maintaining balance and preventing fatigue. Without it, the body compensates by shifting weight unevenly, which can lead to discomfort in the ankles, knees, hips, or lower back. Custom orthotics help restore this balance by redistributing pressure and promoting a more natural walking pattern. They not only ease existing pain but also protect against future strain or injury by supporting the arches and controlling excessive motion.

Unlike store-bought insoles, custom orthotics are created through detailed assessment and advanced technology to provide precise correction and comfort. They fit seamlessly into most shoes, making them ideal for daily wear, work, or sports.

If your feet feel tired, sore, or unsupported, it is recommended that you contact our office for more information, or to make an appointment.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, FL .