Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, occur when the arches of the feet collapse, causing the entire sole to touch the ground. This condition can be present from birth or develop over time due to injury, aging, obesity, or certain medical conditions. Symptoms include foot pain, swelling, fatigue, or difficulty standing or walking for long periods. Some people experience knee or back discomfort as well. Relief often comes from wearing supportive shoes, custom orthotics, or stretching exercises. A podiatrist can evaluate the structure of your feet, identify the underlying cause, and recommend a personalized treatment plan. If you have flat feet and have persistent foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and improved foot function.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Darlyne Cange, DPM from Cange Podiatry, DPM, 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

• 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 Glen Burnie and Ellicott City, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Clubfoot is a congenital condition where a newborn's foot is twisted out of its normal position. The foot turns inward and downward, affecting one or both feet. The exact cause is not always known, but genetic factors and conditions affecting fetal development may play a role. Symptoms include visible foot deformity, limited range of motion, and differences in leg length or muscle tone. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to avoid long-term disability. A podiatrist can offer guidance by recommending or overseeing corrective treatments, such as casting, bracing, or, in some cases, surgery. If your infant has signs of clubfoot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist and include this type of doctor on your healthcare team to ensure the best outcome.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Darlyne Cange, DPM of Cange Podiatry, DPM, PA. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.

What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?

A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.

What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?

Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:

• Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
• Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
• Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
• Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
• Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
• Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Treatment and Prevention

While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Glen Burnie and Ellicott City, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Many people experience soreness near the base of the foot, especially after waking up or standing for long periods ot time. This discomfort often results from strain in the connective tissue that helps support the arch. When this tissue becomes stressed, small tears and inflammation can develop, leading to pain with each step. It can feel sharp, aching, or deep in the heel. This issue is more likely to occur in those who walk often on hard surfaces, wear unsupportive shoes, or have foot structure concerns. Ignoring the early signs may lead to longer recovery times. Simple stretches, footwear changes, or activity adjustments can help manage the condition. If you have pain near your heel or arch, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and more advanced treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Darlyne Cange, DPM of Cange Podiatry, DPM, PA. Our doctor 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 our offices located in Glen Burnie and Ellicott City, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.