Flat feet, or pes planus, is a common condition where the arches of the feet are either low or completely absent, causing the soles to make full contact with the ground. The causes of flat feet can vary widely, including genetic predisposition, muscle imbalances, and injuries that affect the ligaments and tendons. In some cases, flat feet can develop during childhood as the arches form, while others may experience it as adults due to wear and tear or medical conditions. There are two primary types of flat feet, which are known as flexible and rigid. Flexible flat feet are characterized by arches that appear when sitting but flatten when standing, usually causing minimal discomfort. Rigid flat feet maintain a flat appearance regardless of position and can lead to pain and difficulty with movement. Flat feet can cause pain and discomfort. If you have this condition, iti is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you relief tips, and guide you on what type of shoes to wear.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Princeton Foot & Ankle Associates. 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 Princeton, and West Windsor, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The Achilles tendon is a strong, fibrous band that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It enables you to walk, run, and jump. When overstressed, the Achilles tendon can tear or rupture. This causes a sharp pain at the back of the leg or ankle, often accompanied by a snapping sound. Patients may experience trouble standing on their toes, walking, or climbing the stairs. Swelling and bruising surrounding the ankle or foot are other symptoms. Achilles tendon injuries commonly occur during sports involving sudden directional changes, such as basketball or tennis. A diagnosis is usually made through a physical exam, but imaging, like an MRI scan, may be required. Treatment varies based on the severity and may involve a splint, boot, or surgery. A podiatrist can evaluate the extent of the Achilles tendon injury and recommend a treatment plan to promote proper healing and prevent re-injury. If you have ruptured your Achilles tendon, it is suggested that you schedule an immediate appointment with a podiatrist.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Princeton Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Princeton, and West Windsor, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Wearing high heels can significantly alter foot biomechanics, leading to various issues over time. The elevated position of the heel shifts body weight forward, increasing pressure on the forefoot and contributing to the development of bunions. This misalignment forces the big toe to deviate, causing painful deformities. Additionally, high heels can result in ankle inversion injuries, as the instability and lack of support increase the risk of rolling the ankle during movement. Prolonged wear can also lead to osteoarthritis, particularly in the joints of the feet, due to the excessive strain placed on them. Understanding these potential consequences is essential for people who frequently wear high heels. If you have developed a foot condition from wearing high heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment methods and guide you on choosing different shoe options.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Princeton Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Princeton, and West Windsor, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.