Children's feet are fascinating and play a pivotal role in their growth and development. Babies are born with a soft, flexible structure in their feet known as cartilage. This gradually transforms into bones as they grow. Flat feet are a common occurrence in early childhood, and the arches generally develop in the teenage years. Children have 26 bones in each foot, with most of these bones not fully formed until their late teenage years. Surprisingly, children’s feet can grow up to two sizes in a year, which is why frequent shoe fittings are essential. Watching children walk on their tiptoes is quite normal, as it's a natural part of their gait development. Learning about these fun facts can deepen our understanding of the intricate journey of children's feet as they take their first joyful steps into the world. If you would like more information about the development of children’s feet, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can provide you with the knowledge you are seeking.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact one of our podiatrists of Advanced Foot & Ankle Care Centers. Our doctors 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 offices located in Nashville, Smyrna, Spring Hill, Columbia, Dickson, Fairview, Hohenwald, TN and the Middle Tennessee community . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Properly caring for aging feet is crucial for maintaining a senior's health. Wearing properly fitted shoes, washing and moisturizing the feet daily, and conducting regular foot checks are all essential practices. Trimming the nails is also important, as well as seeking assistance from caregivers, family members, or other professionals for help if needed. Minimizing foot injuries is vital to prevent further issues. Participating in regular exercise will also keep the feet in good condition. Embracing nutritious diets promotes overall health. Resting the feet and avoiding high heels can further safeguard them. Special care is needed for seniors with diabetes to prevent complications. If you are a senior or you take care of one, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to obtain daily professional care. 

If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists of Advanced Foot & Ankle Care Centers. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.

It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.

Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities. 

Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.

Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Nashville, Smyrna, Spring Hill, Columbia, Dickson, Fairview, Hohenwald, TN and the Middle Tennessee community . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Heel spurs are commonly misunderstood and usually do not cause heel pain. In fact, most heel pain is attributed to plantar fasciitis, a condition where the ligament on the bottom of the foot, termed the plantar fascia, becomes chronically inflamed. It then can get calcified where it attaches to the heel bone. It may even appear as a heel spur on an X-ray. The pain stems from the strain on the plantar fascia, due to overuse or repetitive exertion, and often is made worse by wearing inadequately supportive footwear. Symptoms include discomfort on the bottom of the heel, which occasionally extends into the arch. Surgical removal of heel spurs is largely considered unnecessary, as relief from the pain can often occur without addressing the spur itself. Wearing shoe inserts and incorporating simple stretches can lead to significant relief from this type of heel pain. Proper arch support and cushioning are often effective ways to relieve heel pain. So, while heel spurs may appear concerning, they may not be the main cause of discomfort. Instead, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can conduct imaging tests and identify the cause and suggest the appropriate treatment measures. 

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 Advanced Foot & Ankle Care Centers. 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 feel free to contact our offices located in Nashville, Smyrna, Spring Hill, Columbia, Dickson, Fairview, Hohenwald, TN and the Middle Tennessee community . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Flat feet, a common condition among adults, occur when the arches of the feet collapse, leading to the entire foot making contact with the ground. While the majority of babies are born with flat feet, others develop this condition later in life, and several factors can contribute to adult-onset flat feet. Overpronation is a common cause of flat feet. This is an abnormal inward rolling of the foot while walking, often caused by muscle imbalances or improper foot structure. Trauma to the foot or ankle, such as fractures or ligament damage, can alter the foot's structure and also lead to flat feet. Aging can contribute to flat feet, as the ligaments and tendons lose elasticity, weakening the foot's arch support. People who are obese may notice their feet are flat, as a result of the stress that is placed on the feet from the added weight. Genetics and certain medical conditions can cause flat feet, including rheumatoid arthritis and nerve disorders. Understanding the causes of adult flat feet can aid in early detection and prompt intervention, ensuring better foot health in the long run. If you have flat feet, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot & Ankle Care Centers. 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 Nashville, Smyrna, Spring Hill, Columbia, Dickson, Fairview, Hohenwald, TN and the Middle Tennessee community . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.