October 2024

Flat feet, or fallen arches, occur when the arch of the foot is lower than normal. Children are often born with flat feet, and in most cases, the condition naturally resolves by the age of seven to 10 as the foot develops. Flat feet are classified based on arch height and heel aversion angle and can be either flexible or rigid. In flexible flat feet, the arch appears when the foot is lifted but disappears when standing, while rigid flat feet have no arch even when off the ground. Flat feet can be caused by genetics, injury, or conditions like arthritis. Symptoms include foot pain, particularly in the heel or arch, and difficulty standing for long periods. Pain occurs due to abnormal pressure on muscles and ligaments. Treatment includes supportive footwear, orthotics, and targeted stretching. In severe cases, surgery may be considered to correct alignment and relieve discomfort. If you have painful flat feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. Eugenio Rivera from Calo Foot & Ankle Specialists. 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 Bellaire, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Your feet endure a lot, but certain habits can damage them over time. For starters, wearing high heels or shoes that are too tight can lead to a host of issues, like bunions, corns, and even chronic pain. High heels, while stylish, alter your gait and put extra pressure on the toes and balls of your feet. To avoid these problems, opt for well-fitting shoes with ample room in the toe box and supportive soles. Additionally, do not overlook the impact of flip-flops. While they might be a go-to for the beach, they offer little support and can contribute to issues like plantar fasciitis and arch pain. Do not forget about socks. They are not just for warmth. Wearing socks helps prevent friction and blisters, keeping your feet more comfortable throughout the day. Finally, remember to replace worn-out shoes. As shoes age, their support diminishes, which can lead to foot pain and alignment issues. If you are experiencing foot pain, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for personalized advice and solutions for healthier, happier feet.

It is important to find shoes that fit you properly in order to avoid a variety of different foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Eugenio Rivera from Calo Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

Shoes have many different functions. They cushion our body weight, protect our feet, and allow us to safely play sports. You should always make sure that the shoes you wear fit you properly in order to avoid injuries and deformities such as: bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and more. It is important to note that although a certain pair of shoes might be a great fit for someone else, that doesn’t mean they will be a great fit for you. This is why you should always try on shoes before buying them to make sure they are worth the investment. Typically, shoes need to be replaced ever six months to one year of regular use.

Tips for Proper Shoe Fitting

• Select a shoe that is shaped like your foot
• Don’t buy shoes that fit too tight, expecting them to stretch to fit
• Make sure there is enough space (3/8” to ½”) for your longest toe at the end of each shoe when you are standing up
• Walk in the shoes to make sure they fit and feel right
• Don’t select shoes by the size marked inside the shoe, but by how the shoe fits your foot

The shoes you buy should always feel as good as they look. Shoes that fit properly will last longer, feel better, and improve your way of life each day.

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

Tailor’s bunion, or bunionette, is a bony bump that forms on the outside of the foot near the base of the little toe. Unlike a traditional bunion, which affects the big toe, a tailor’s bunion results from the little toe pushing towards the fourth toe, causing the joint to protrude. This condition is often caused by wearing tight or narrow shoes that compress the toes, as well as genetic factors that contribute to abnormal foot mechanics. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and redness surrounding the bunionette, which can make wearing shoes uncomfortable. The bump can also cause calluses to develop on the affected area due to increased friction. For persistent issues or severe discomfort from a bunionette, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to explore treatment options.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Dr. Eugenio Rivera of Calo Foot & Ankle Specialists. 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 Bellaire, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.