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Why the Right Shoes Matter for Children’s Foot Health

Children’s feet are still growing and developing, making proper foot care and well-fitting shoes essential. Common foot issues in children include flat feet, toe walking, in-toeing, and heel pain, often from Sever’s disease. These problems can be caused by genetics, wearing improper footwear, or overuse during sports and play. Symptoms include limping, frequent tripping, uneven shoe wear, or complaints of foot, ankle, or leg pain. Shoes that are too tight, too loose, or lack support can worsen these issues or cause blisters, calluses, and posture problems. A podiatrist can assess your child’s foot development and walking pattern, recommend proper footwear, and provide custom orthotics, if needed. Early intervention is key to preventing long-term problems and supporting healthy growth. If you suspect your child is having foot issues, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment solutions.

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 New Tampa Foot & Ankle. 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 office located in Wesley Chapel, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Gout Pain Can Be Managed

Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.

When Your Ankles Will Not Let You Move With Ease

Ankle pain can interrupt daily life, whether it stems from an old injury, overuse, arthritis, or a sudden twist. It may appear as swelling, stiffness, or sharp discomfort when walking or standing. Without the right care, even mild symptoms can worsen over time and limit mobility. Rest, elevation, and wearing supportive footwear may help in the short term, but lasting relief depends on identifying the cause. A podiatrist can assess whether the pain is due to joint damage, ligament strain, or another issue entirely. Treatment might include custom orthotics or bracing to support healing. Because ankles play such a key role in balance and movement, ongoing pain should not be ignored. If your ankle remains sore or unstable, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist to find the right treatment and keep your steps steady and pain-free.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from New Tampa Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

  • Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
  • Ankle sprains
  • Broken ankles
  • Achilles tendonitis
  • Achilles tendon rupture
  • Stress fractures
  • Bursitis
  • Tarsal tunnel syndrome
  • Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Wesley Chapel, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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Custom Orthotics Seasonal - Any Season

Rain or shine, snow or sleet, Custom Orthotics have your feet covered! As the seasons change, ensure your steps remain comfortable and supported. Custom Orthotics adapt to your footwear, from summer sandals to winter boots, providing consistent relief and alignment. Don't let the changing weather dictate your foot comfort. Step confidently year-round and experience the difference with Custom Orthotics. Call today for more information.

Treatment for a Fractured Toe

A broken toe occurs when one of the small bones in the toe sustains a fracture, typically due to trauma or repetitive stress. Symptoms of a fractured  toe include pain, swelling, bruising, or redness, along with difficulty bearing weight or moving the toe. A visibly deformed or angled toe can suggest a more severe break. Diagnosis usually involves a physical exam and imaging, such as an X-ray, to confirm the fracture and assess alignment. In some cases, more detailed imaging like an MRI scan may be required to detect stress fractures or ligament injuries. Treatment depends on the type and severity of the break. Supportive measures include buddy taping, splinting, or the use of a hard-soled shoe or walking boot to stabilize the toe during healing. Surgery may be necessary for displaced fractures or joint damage, and can involve pins or wires to maintain alignment. If you injure a toe or think it may be broken, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from New Tampa Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

  • Throbbing pain
  • Swelling
  • Bruising on the skin and toenail
  • The inability to move the toe
  • Toe appears crooked or disfigured
  • Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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

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