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 one of our podiatrists from APEX Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors 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 offices located in Fort Myers, Shellpoint, and Naples, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Diabetes can significantly impact foot health, primarily through a condition known as diabetic neuropathy. This occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the nerves in the feet, leading to symptoms like numbness, tingling, and pain. In severe cases, diabetic patients might experience a loss of sensation, making it difficult to detect injuries or infections. Additionally, poor circulation can slow down healing, which increases the risk of ulcers and infections. Proper management of blood sugar levels is key to preventing these complications. Regular foot inspections, wearing proper footwear, and daily foot care can help mitigate the effects. Treatment often involves managing diabetes effectively, controlling pain with medications, and in some cases, foot exercises. To ensure optimal foot health and address any concerns, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for specialized care and preventive strategies tailored to your needs.
 

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from APEX Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Fort Myers, Shellpoint, and Naples, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Heel spurs are bony protrusions that form on the heel bone, or calcaneus. The two primary types are plantar and dorsal heel spurs. Plantar heel spurs develop on the bottom of the heel, where the plantar fascia attaches to the bone, often causing pain in the arch or heel. Dorsal heel spurs form on the back of the heel and can lead to discomfort in the Achilles tendon area. Common symptoms include sharp or aching pain, particularly with movement or pressure. The primary causes of heel spurs are repetitive strain, improper footwear, or conditions such as plantar fasciitis. Overuse or excessive stress can trigger inflammation and heel spur formation. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact one of our podiatrists from APEX Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Fort Myers, Shellpoint, and Naples, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Morton’s neuroma is a painful condition affecting the nerves in the ball of the foot, typically between the third and fourth toes. This condition occurs when the tissue around the nerve thickens due to irritation or pressure, often from wearing tight or high-heeled shoes. Symptoms of Morton's neuroma include sharp pain, burning, or a sensation like stepping on a small stone. Numbness or tingling in the toes can also be experienced. Risk factors include wearing narrow footwear, having foot conditions like flat feet or bunions, or engaging in high-impact sports. A podiatrist can provide custom orthotics, lifestyle modifications, or non-invasive therapies to alleviate discomfort and prevent long-term damage. If left untreated, Morton’s neuroma can lead to chronic pain and permanent nerve damage, like numbness in the toes. If you have pain in the ball of the foot that may be from Morton’s neuroma, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of APEX Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Fort Myers, Shellpoint, and Naples, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ingrown toenail surgery is a common procedure to treat toenails that have grown into the surrounding skin, causing pain and potential infection. The surgery typically involves removing part or all of the affected toenail and, in some cases, treating the nail bed with a chemical or surgical method to prevent regrowth. The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia, ensuring minimal discomfort. Post-surgery, patients may experience some pain, swelling, and redness, but these symptoms generally improve within a few weeks. The prognosis for ingrown toenail surgery is generally positive, with most individuals experiencing significant relief from pain and discomfort. Proper foot care and following post-operative instructions are essential for a successful recovery and to prevent recurrence. If you have an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can determine if surgery is right for you.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of APEX Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Fort Myers, Shellpoint, and Naples, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Allowing babies to walk or crawl barefoot offers numerous benefits for their overall development. Barefoot play optimizes sensory motor development by letting babies experience various textures and surfaces, enhancing their sensory awareness and coordination. When infants walk without shoes, they develop a better sense of their body in space, promoting awareness and balance. This natural movement improves agility and strengthens the muscles in their feet and legs. Additionally, being barefoot allows for the proper development of the foot’s arch and alignment, as it encourages natural foot mechanics. By allowing their feet to move freely and interact directly with their environment, babies gain essential motor skills and support their physical growth effectively. If you notice unusual foot or walking symptoms in your child and are interested in learning about foot development, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can evaluate foot health, and provide you with the information 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 APEX Foot & Ankle Center. 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 our offices located in Fort Myers, Shellpoint, and Naples, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Wearing high heels can often lead to painful blisters on the feet. These blisters form due to excessive friction and pressure against the skin, which causes the outer layer to separate from the deeper layers. As a result, fluid accumulates in the space, forming a blister. High heels typically increase the likelihood of blisters because they alter the natural alignment of the foot and place pressure on areas that are not accustomed to such strain. To relieve and prevent blisters, opt for well-fitting, cushioned shoes that reduce friction. It is also helpful to give your feet regular breaks from high heels and to practice proper foot care, including moisturizing and keeping the skin healthy to reduce the risk of blisters. Blisters can be bothersome and may become infected. If you frequently develop blisters from wearing high heels, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and prevention techniques.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of APEX Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors 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 Fort Myers, Shellpoint, and Naples, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Golf, though less intense than other sports, can still lead to foot and ankle injuries due to repetitive motions and uneven terrain. Common foot issues among golfers include ankle sprains from uneven surfaces or sudden movements during swings. Plantar fasciitis may develop from prolonged standing and walking, causing heel pain. Stress fractures can occur from overuse and excessive impact on the feet. To prevent these injuries, golfers should wear supportive, well-fitted golf shoes that offer good traction and cushioning. Proper warm-up and stretching exercises, focusing on the feet and ankles, can help prepare the body for the game. Additionally, paying attention to the course's condition and avoiding rough or uneven areas can minimize injury risk. Regular foot strengthening and flexibility exercises can also enhance resilience and prevent common golf-related foot and ankle problems. If you have endured a foot or ankle injury while playing golf, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions and educate you on proper injury prevention techniques while playing golf.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of APEX Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Fort Myers, Shellpoint, and Naples, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.