Items filtered by date: November 2024

Flat feet, or fallen arches, occur when the natural arch in the foot is absent, leading to the entire sole making contact with the ground. While flat feet can be present from childhood, many people develop the condition later in life, known as adult-acquired flat feet. Causes include weakened or torn tendons, particularly the posterior tibial tendon, which supports the arch. Among other factors are arthritis, which can affect joint alignment, and injuries like bone fractures or ligament sprains that compromise foot structure. Obesity, diabetes, and even pregnancy can also increase the risk of developing flat feet by placing extra strain on the arches. Symptoms of adult flat feet often include foot, knee, or lower back pain, especially after extended standing or physical activity. Treatment from a podiatrist might involve custom orthotics, supportive footwear, or exercises to strengthen foot muscles. If you have flat feet that are problematic, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Darline Kulhan, DPM from Scarsdale Foot Specialists PC. 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 Scarsdale, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar warts are small, rough growths that typically appear on the bottom of the feet, often on the balls and heels due to constant pressure. These warts are caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV, entering through small cuts or weak points in the skin. Although plantar warts often resolve on their own in children, adults may need more proactive treatment. A podiatrist can offer a variety of medical treatments to eliminate plantar warts effectively. Cryotherapy, which involves freezing the wart, is a common clinical procedure, as is using prescription-strength salicylic acid to gradually peel away the wart. For persistent cases, options like minor surgical removal, laser therapy, or immunotherapy may be recommended. These treatments aim to remove the wart and reduce the risk of recurrence by addressing both the wart itself and the virus. If you have a plantar wart, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Darline Kulhan, DPM from Scarsdale Foot Specialists PC. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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

Allowing babies to go barefoot offers numerous benefits that contribute to their overall development. When infants walk without shoes, they enhance their awareness of their surroundings, as their feet can feel different textures and temperatures. This sensory experience plays a vital role in brain development and spatial awareness. Furthermore, being barefoot encourages natural foot development, allowing the arches to form properly and strengthening the muscles and ligaments in the feet. As babies navigate different surfaces, they improve their coordination and agility, essential skills for later stages of physical activity. This freedom also fosters balance, helping them gain confidence as they explore their environment. Embracing the barefoot experience not only supports healthy foot growth but also nurtures a sense of exploration and movement that can positively influence their development. If your baby has any type of foot problem, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions and guide you on additional benefits of babies walking barefoot.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Darline Kulhan, DPM of Scarsdale Foot Specialists PC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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