Flat feet, or pes planus, is a common condition where the arches of the feet collapse, causing the entire sole to touch the ground. This condition may be present from birth or develop over time. Genetics may play a significant role because the development of arches is determined by genetics. Insufficient development of foot muscles or weakening due to factors like aging or inactivity also can contribute to flat feet. Certain medical conditions like arthritis, diabetes, and obesity can increase the risk of developing flat feet. Some people experience no discomfort from flat feet, while others may suffer from pain in the arches or heels, swelling, or difficulty standing on tiptoes. Treatment options for flat feet depend on the severity and symptoms. Custom orthotic inserts can provide arch support and alleviate discomfort. Stretching exercises may help strengthen the foot muscles. In some cases, anti-inflammatory medication may be recommended. Early intervention can prevent further complications and improve your overall foot health. If you're experiencing flat feet-related issues, it's suggested that you consult a podiatrist for a thorough evaluation and a personalized treatment plan.
Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. Robert Binder from Robert P. Binder, DPM. 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 Reseda, CA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Cuboid syndrome is a frequent cause of lateral foot pain, primarily affecting the outer side of the foot. Athletes like ballet dancers and runners are often affected, with the condition resulting from the partial dislocation of the cuboid bone. This dislocation can occur suddenly due to injuries like ankle sprains or develop gradually from repetitive stress on the bone. Cuboid syndrome is characterized by the cuboid bone acting as a block, restricting the movement of surrounding foot bones. Three primary causes of cuboid syndrome include ankle injuries, repetitive strain, and altered foot biomechanics, often associated with flat feet. Symptoms encompass lateral foot pain, worsened with activity, difficulty walking, tenderness, swelling, and weakness during activities like walking, running, and jumping. Diagnosis is often challenging, and this condition can be misdiagnosed. Imaging studies may not reveal cuboid dislocation, but a physical examination involving palpation and specific tests can help identify the condition. Treatment options involve exercises to improve mobility, strength, and stability, as well as rest. A podiatrist can also manipulate and reposition the cuboid, tape it for support, prescribe orthotics, or recommend cuboid wedges to correct foot positioning. If you have lateral foot pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to obtain an accurate diagnosis and treatment that is right for you.
Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with Dr. Robert Binder from Robert P. Binder, DPM. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.
Causes
The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:
Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.
Symptoms
A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Reseda, CA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Plantar fibromas are a relatively uncommon, but often painful, condition that affects the feet. These benign growths, typically found in the arch of the foot, develop within the plantar fascia, the band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes. The exact cause of plantar fibromas is not well understood, but they are believed to be related to genetics and may develop due to overuse or trauma to the foot. The primary symptom of plantar fibromas is a noticeable lump or nodule in the arch of the foot. This lump is often painful and can make walking and standing uncomfortable. In some cases, it may restrict foot movement. Treatment options vary depending on the severity of symptoms. Conservative approaches include wearing orthotics or making shoe modifications that may help to alleviate pressure on the lump. In more severe cases, corticosteroid injections or surgical removal may be necessary to relieve pain and restore foot function. Early intervention can help to manage the condition effectively and improve overall foot health. If you suspect you have a plantar fibroma, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.
A plantar fibroma may disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Robert Binder of Robert P. Binder, DPM. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Plantar Fibroma
A plantar fibroma is a fibrous knot in the arch of the foot. It is embedded in the plantar fascia which is a band of tissue that extends from the heel to the toes along the bottom of the foot. There can be multiple plantar fibromas in the feet at the same time. There are no known causes for this condition. If you have a plantar fibroma, there will be a bump in the arch of your foot that cannot be missed. Any associated pain is most often due to a shoe rubbing against the nodule. Non-surgical options, such as steroid injections, physical therapy, and orthotics should be tried first. Surgery is a last resort and is the only thing that will remove a plantar fibroma entirely. Consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and to determine the treatment regimen that is right for you.
What Causes a Plantar Fibroma?
While there are no specific causes identified, a plantar fibroma can possibly come from genetic predisposition or the formation of scar tissue that forms from healing the tears in the plantar fascia.
What Are the Symptoms of a Plantar Fibroma?
There will be a noticeable lump in the arch of the foot that may or may not cause pain. If pain is felt, it is typically because a shoe is rubbing up against the lump or when walking or standing barefoot.
Treatment and Prevention
A plantar fibroma will not disappear without treatment, but it can get smaller and be a non-issue. If pain persists, a podiatrist examines the foot and when the arch of the foot is pressed, pain can be felt down to the toes. An MRI or biopsy might be performed to help diagnose or evaluate the plantar fibroma. The following non-surgical options are generally enough to reduce the size and pain of these nodules:
Steroid injections
Orthotics
Physical therapy to help apply anti-inflammatory creams on the bump
Surgery is considered if the mass increases in size and the patient continues to feel pain after non-surgical methods are tried.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Reseda, CA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Bunions, a prevalent foot condition, can cast a shadow on even the most graceful strides. A bunion, or hallux valgus, emerges when the joint at the base of the big toe shifts out of alignment, causing the toe to lean toward the other toes. The reasons why bunions may develop can vary, often stemming from genetic predisposition. Additionally, wearing ill-fitting footwear that squeezes the toes, or conditions that impact foot mechanics may lead to getting a bunion. The symptoms manifest as a bony bump at the base of the big toe, accompanied by pain, swelling, and redness. As the condition progresses, the affected toe may cross over or under the adjacent toe, causing discomfort and it can be difficult to find comfortable shoes. Recognizing the definition, causes, and symptoms of bunions is crucial in seeking the correct treatment. If you have a bunion, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can guide you toward the relief and treatment options that are best for you.
If you are suffering from bunions, contact Dr. Robert Binder of Robert P. Binder, DPM. 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 Reseda, CA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
