There are many kinds of foot conditions that may alter the natural structure of your feet. Flat feet are one such foot condition. Also known as fallen arches, flat feet are defined by the lack of a natural arch in the feet. Individuals with flat feet, for example, can stand upright on the ground with the sole of the foot pressing flush against the floor. Although flat feet are not typically considered a serious condition, they can make running and walking for extended periods more difficult. Some individuals are more apt to develop fallen arches. Infants are one commonly affected group, as their tendons and ligaments in the feet are not yet fully grown and tightened. However, by the age of two or three, fallen arches usually disappear. Another group is those who have muscle diseases. Individuals who suffer from cerebral palsy, for instance, might experience flat feet because of their muscle condition. Lastly, since flat feet can be caused by experiencing an injury to the foot, athletes and senior citizens who are prone to falling are also at risk of flat feet. If you fall into one of the aforementioned categories, contact a podiatrist to learn more about your susceptibility to flat feet.
Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. Edward D. Hutson from Easton, PA. . 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
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 offices located in Easton, and Northampton, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!
Blisters are pockets of fluid that occur under the top layer of your skin. These fluid pockets are usually filled with pus, blood, or serum. Blisters may itch or hurt and can appear as a single bubble or in clusters.
The most common types of blisters are friction blisters. This type of blister may be caused by wearing shoes that are too tight. Friction blisters can also occur on the hands. A change in temperature may also cause blisters on the feet. In the freezing air, frostbite on your toes can lead to blisters, as well as sunburn from hot weather.
The best way to treat a blister is to keep it clean and dry. Most blisters will get better on their own. Once the skin absorbs the fluid within the blister, it will flatten and eventually peel off. You should avoid popping your blister unless you podiatrist does it for you. Additional treatment options include applying an ice pack to the blister or using over-the-counter blister bandages to cover the affected area.
If your blister becomes discolored, inflamed, or worsens it is advised that you speak to your podiatrist. Blisters that are yellow, green, or purple may be infected and require immediate medical attention. Blisters that are abnormally colored may be a sign of a more serious underlying health condition such as herpes.
A blister on the foot often develops as a result of excess friction that can come from wearing shoes and socks that do not fit correctly. It is defined as a small area that resembles a bubble and is filled with a serum that contains antibodies. When a blister forms, it is the body’s natural defense technique in protecting the raw skin, and will gradually drain as new skin develops. Additional reasons a blister may form can include allergic reactions to an insect bite, or existing medical conditions that can consist of eczema and psoriasis. Many people have abnormal foot shapes which may affect the fit of the shoe, possibly leading to a blister forming. Patients who have peripheral neuropathy or diabetes may be unaware of a rubbing sensation on their feet as a result of the inability to feel pain. It is important to refrain from popping the blister, which may result in infection and damage to the raw skin underneath it. If you have a blister on your foot, please consult with a podiatrist who can help you to properly manage it, and guide you toward preventing future blisters from developing.
Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Dr. Edward D. Hutson of Easton, PA. . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Foot Blisters
Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.
What Are Foot Blisters?
A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.
How Do Blisters Form?
Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.
Prevention & Treatment
It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Easton, and Northampton, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.
Edward D. Hutson Jr, DPM - Default