There are basic facts involving children’s feet that are interesting to know. The bones in children’s feet do not fully develop until the age of 13, and it is helpful to provide them with shoes that have the necessary support as they grow. This is crucial in maintaining good foot health. Many parents realize they are buying shoes at an accelerated rate during the first few years after birth. Research has shown the feet grow the fastest in the first three years. Flexible and comfortable shoes are ideal to purchase, and this can help the child to get accustomed to their growing feet. The feet house one-quarter of the bones that are in the body, and the majority of babies are born with flat feet. The arch generally develops during the teenage years, and having an abnormal foot structure may cause flat feet to lead into adulthood. If you would like more information about children’s foot health, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can provide you with the knowledge you are seeking.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact one of our podiatrists of Pennsylvania. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Plymouth Meeting and Ambler, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Heel pain is common and there are several causes. It can occur as a result of an injury or from wearing shoes that do not have adequate cushioning in the heel area. The foot condition known as plantar fasciitis can cause severe heel pain and a podiatrist is often consulted for relief. Additionally, enduring an Achilles tendon injury can also produce heel pain, and it can become difficult to walk. People who are afflicted with arthritis in the feet may have swollen heels and a reduced range of motion. For moderate heel pain, performing gentle stretches can help to strengthen the heel and it is helpful to avoid wearing high heels. A heel spur is a bony growth that forms on the bottom of the heel that causes heel pain, too. A heel spur can be diagnosed by having an X-ray taken to determine its size. If you have heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can analyze the cause and offer you the correct treatment solutions.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Pennsylvania. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Plymouth Meeting and Ambler, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Poor blood circulation can cause the feet to feel cold, numb, or tingly. It can also cause dry skin on the feet and brittle toenails. This happens because there is an interference with blood delivery of vital oxygen and nutrients to the feet. Poor circulation can make wounds heal slower and increase the risk of infection. Lifestyle changes may help some patients, and others may have to take medicine to widen blood vessels. Though vitamins and supplements cannot cure circulation problems, they may provide relief from symptoms. If you have signs of poor circulation in your feet, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can determine what the cause is, and offer advice on treatment. 

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact one of our podiatrists of Pennsylvania. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
• Pain
• Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Plymouth Meeting and Ambler, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.