Children’s feet grow and change quickly, and sometimes issues appear that can affect comfort and movement. Flat feet, in-toeing, out-toeing, and toe walking are a few concerns parents may notice. Other common problems include heel pain from activity, ingrown toenails, or warts on the soles of the feet. While many conditions improve as a child grows, some may cause pain, difficulty walking, or poor balance, if left untreated. Because children may not always explain what they feel, parents should watch for signs such as limping, avoiding play, or wearing out shoes unevenly. Supportive shoes, proper nail care, and encouraging healthy activity can help protect young feet. Regular foot checks are also important as part of a child’s overall health. If you notice changes in your child’s feet or walking, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for evaluation and expert guidance.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Jennifer Swan, DPM of Right Step Foot Care. 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 Westerville, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar fasciitis is a common overuse injury that occurs when the plantar fascia, the ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot, is damaged due to repetitive stress. This condition is frequently seen in athletes and those who work on their feet, but can affect anyone. Plantar fasciitis causes heel and arch pain that can range from mild to severe. Treatments for plantar fasciitis will depend on the severity and duration of the symptoms. Resting the affected foot by limiting its movements is usually the first line of treatment. Your podiatrist may recommend avoiding certain sports or prolonged periods of standing. Changing footwear and taking anti-inflammatory medications can reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation. Your podiatrist may also suggest wearing orthotic inserts in your shoes to better support your feet, taping the foot, wearing a night splint, and doing light stretching exercises. Surgery can be considered in severe cases where conservative treatments have failed. If you have pain from plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you seek the care of a podiatrist. 

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Jennifer Swan, DPM  from Right Step Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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

Orthotics are defined as insoles that fit inside the shoe. They are designed to correct abnormal foot structures that can come from genetic traits, or from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. Orthotics are helpful in supporting fallen arches, and can successfully distribute weight evenly throughout the foot. To ensure a proper fit, your foot is placed into a mold so that the exact size and shape of your foot can be determined. After the orthotics are constructed, a final fitting is done before being placed inside the shoe. Many patients realize the benefits of wearing orthotics, and it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly fit you with these types of insoles.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Jennifer Swan, DPM from Right Step Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

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

Falling is a common occurrence among seniors that can inhibit completing everyday activities. An effective falls prevention technique is to exercise frequently, as this can help to keep the muscles strong and flexible. Additionally, it is beneficial to install grab bars in the toilet and shower area, and using a bath mat may aid in preventing unnecessary falls as well. Research has indicated it is proactive to get regular physician examinations, where existing medications and eyewear can be checked and updated when necessary. Some patients may have medical conditions that make them more prone to falling, including diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, and certain types of arthritis. If you are over sixty-five years old and would like to learn about how falling can affect the feet, please consult with a podiatrist who can also offer your additional prevention techniques.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Jennifer Swan, DPM from Right Step Foot Care. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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