November 2022

As many individuals might already know, a common foot affliction called flat feet is present when a person’s entire foot lays flush against the floor. In other words, the arch of the foot is not discernable and the entire sole, or bottom, of the foot, touches the ground. Flat feet have an interesting connection to back pain that health-conscious people ought to know about. Specifically, having flat feet can increase an individual’s risk of experiencing back pain of some kind. Lower back pain in particular might be especially more likely. One potential explanation for this phenomenon is that flat feet are not able to effectively absorb force and shock. Flat feet also can put stress on other parts of the body, due to the biomechanical misalignment of the feet. Back pain can become more likely. If you have questions about flat feet and back pain, contact a podiatrist today.

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.

In the first few years of a child’s life, the bones in their feet develop from soft areas of cartilage, known as growth plates. Once the growth plate fully develops, the bones do not grow any further. The heel bone grows until about the age of 15. A child between the ages of 9 and 15 who is physically active may develop a condition known as Sever’s disease. This is simply an imbalance between the growth of the heel bone and the soft tissue. The result is pain around the heel, which is made worse by running or standing on tiptoes. It is nearly impossible to detect Sever’s disease from an X-ray, but the symptoms usually are enough to make an accurate diagnosis. Relief from Sever’s disease comes from ceasing the activity that caused it and resting the foot. Heel pads and splinting at night can help to reduce the pain. For more information about Sever’s disease, please check with a podiatrist. 

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Dr. Robert Binder from Robert P. Binder, DPM. Our doctor 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 Reseda, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

The majority of people are unaware of the role the big toe plays in walking. Research has shown it absorbs approximately half the weight of the body while taking every step. Toe pain can happen from an injury, and may cause difficulty in sleeping. Additionally, there may be medical conditions that can lead to big toe pain. These can include arthritis, possibly causing the toe to become stiff. Aching may accompany arthritis, and it can be difficult to move. Pain in the big toe joint may indicate a bone spur has developed, and it may prevent the toe from bending while walking. Surgery may be necessary to remove a bone spur, and this can help to restore relief. Patients who have sprained the main joint in the big toe by jamming into a heavy object may experience turf toe. Rest and elevation may provide mild relief to this type of injury. If you have toe pain for any reason, a podiatrist is the doctor to consult with who can effectively diagnose and treat this type of pain.

Toe pain can 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.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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.

One of the most common side effects many pregnant women complain about is swollen feet. It often starts in the second trimester, and they may start to become uncomfortable as the pregnancy progresses. It is considered to be a normal part of pregnancy and is generally caused by additional fluid and blood the body produces. This is the body’s natural method of providing proper nourishment to the growing fetus, and, as a result, the fluid may pool in the ankles and feet. Many women find it helpful to elevate their feet as often as possible, in addition to soaking their feet in warm water. Research has indicated that it may be beneficial to ensure that there are adequate amounts of potassium included in the daily consumption of food. Additionally, this may significantly contribute to possibly reducing high blood pressure. Drinking plenty of water daily is essential in controlling swollen ankles, and wearing compression socks may help to diminish some of the fluid in the ankles. If swollen ankles are bothersome during your pregnancy, and you would like additional remedies that can help you to find relief, please contact a podiatrist. 

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Dr. Robert Binder from Robert P. Binder, DPM. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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.

When you perspire, it is nature’s way of helping to regulate your body temperature. This is done through the many sweat glands throughout the body, including the toes and feet. When working on your feet, especially if you need to wear work boots, the chances of moisture collecting inside the shoes are multiplied. Keeping the feet dry can pose a challenge, but experts suggest a few ways to do just that. First, choose work boots that are breathable. Obviously, work boots must not only support your feet, but protect them. Some types of work boots are made with mesh linings that can help to keep excess moisture from building up. Also, it is suggested that wearing socks that wick moisture can help to keep your feet dry. Using foot powder and keeping your feet clean are other methods that can work to limit the buildup of bacteria, which can cause foot odor. For more information on the type of work boot that is best for your feet, please see a podiatrist.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Dr. Robert Binder from Robert P. Binder, DPM. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

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.