Children who are involved in sports can place repeated stress on feet and ankles that are still developing. Overuse injuries occur when activity strains bones, tendons, or ligaments faster than the body can recover. Risk rises when a child practices daily, plays on several teams, or suddenly increases training. Pain may begin slowly instead of following one clear accident. Other signs include swelling, tenderness, and a change in the way the child walks. 

Several overuse injuries affect active children. Achilles tendonitis causes irritation in the tendon that joins the calf muscle to the heel. Calcaneal apophysitis, also called Sever’s disease, affects the growth area at the back of the heel. It can cause pain when running or jumping. Plantar fasciitis is an irritation of the strong band of tissue beneath the foot associated with overuse. Stress fractures are tiny cracks caused by repeated force without time to recover. Foot pain is not a normal part of sports and should not be ignored. Continuing to play through pain can worsen an injury. It can also change how a child moves, placing extra stress on the knees, hips, or lower back.

A podiatrist can examine the painful area, watch the child stand and walk, and assess foot structure. X-rays or other imaging tests can help identify a stress fracture. Treatment is based on the type of injury and its severity. A podiatrist can recommend temporary activity limits, supportive devices, or changes to athletic shoes. Prevention starts with properly fitted shoes that are specifically made for the child’s activity. Training should increase gradually, and children need enough recovery between practices and games. Sport demands should also match the child’s age, ability, and stamina. Early care can protect developing feet and prevent a short-term problem from becoming a lasting one. If your child has foot, ankle, or toe pain related to sports activities, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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 Barry University Foot and Ankle Institute. 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 North Miami Beach, Miami, and Tamarac, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Falls are sudden events that cause a person to lose balance and land on the floor or another surface. Foot and ankle problems can make falling more likely, especially when pain changes how someone walks. Osteoarthritis of the feet and ankles is one possible contributor. This condition develops when cartilage within a joint breaks down. Symptoms may include joint pain, stiffness, and tenderness. Joint stiffness may also make steps feel less secure.

Several risk factors can increase the chance of falling. Previous falls, poor balance, and vision problems can affect stability. Osteoarthritis may add another concern because joint damage can make the feet and ankles less flexible. Pain may cause shorter steps or uneven weight distribution. Stiff joints can also make it harder to adjust quickly on uneven surfaces. Weak footwear support, cluttered walkways, and poor lighting can further increase fall risk. Other risks include unsuitable shoes and hazards.

Preventing falls starts with addressing problems that affect safe movement. A podiatrist can examine the feet and ankles, review walking patterns, and order imaging tests when joint damage needs evaluation. Treatment may include wearing supportive footwear, custom orthotics, or recommendations for activity changes. A podiatrist may also review current medications and suggest discussing possible side effects with the prescribing provider. At home, removing loose rugs, improving lighting, and clearing clutter may help to prevent falling.

If a fall causes foot or ankle pain, swelling, or difficulty bearing weight, prompt evaluation is important. A podiatrist can determine whether the injury involves a sprain, fracture, or another condition. Treatment may include protection, immobilization, or medication guidance. Preventive care can reduce future risks. If you have foot or ankle pain from falling, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and additional guidance on fall prevention tips.

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 one of our podiatrists from Barry University Foot and Ankle Institute. Our doctors 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 offices located in North Miami Beach, Miami, and Tamarac, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot or ankle pain can develop even when no clear injury has occurred. Repeated strain from work or exercise can irritate muscles, joints, and connective tissues. Changes related to aging can affect foot shape, joint movement, and nail health. Wearing shoes that lack proper support or do not fit can add pressure to these areas. Symptoms vary and can include aching, stiffness, or swelling. Some patients notice burning and tingling, numbness, or changes in skin colour. Pain can affect the toes, heel, or ankle, and may make standing or walking difficult.

The location and type of discomfort can offer clues about its cause. Sharp pain beneath the heel can point to plantar fasciitis, which is irritation of the strong band of tissue supporting the arch. Pain behind the heel may involve the Achilles tendon or nearby tissue. Joint redness, warmth, and sudden severe pain can occur with gout. Bunions, flat feet, and arthritis can also lead to pain without a recent injury. Skin and nail problems are another possible source. Corns, athlete’s foot, and ingrown toenails can cause tenderness or burning. Nerve problems and poor circulation may cause tingling, temperature changes, or reduced feeling.

A podiatrist can determine why the pain is occurring and create a treatment plan based on the findings. The exam includes a review of symptoms, health history, and activities. The podiatrist examines the skin, nails, and way the feet move. X-rays can help identify bone or soft-tissue problems. Treatment options include custom orthotics to improve support, padding to reduce pressure, or guidance on fitting shoes. A podiatrist can provide care for skin and nail conditions. Persistent pain should not be ignored, especially when it limits movement or appears with redness, swelling, or loss of feeling. Early diagnosis can prevent a problem from becoming difficult to treat. If you have foot or ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Barry University Foot and Ankle Institute. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in North Miami Beach, Miami, and Tamarac, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Burning on the bottom of the feet can feel like heat, pins and needles, or prickling. This sensation is often called paresthesia and may develop after activity. Symptoms can range from mild irritation to discomfort that affects walking. Common causes include nerve irritation, fungal infections, and forefoot pressure. Risk factors include diabetes, excessive sweating, and standing. Identifying the cause is important because burning feet can require different treatments.

A fungal infection can cause burning when irritated skin develops between the toes. Other symptoms may include itching, scaling, and cracking. Peripheral neuropathy affects nerves that carry signals between the feet and brain. It may cause burning, numbness, or sensitivity. Diabetes is an important risk factor. Morton’s neuroma involves irritation of a nerve between the toes. It may cause burning pain, tingling, or a pebble-like feeling inside the shoe. Tight shoes and forefoot pressure can increase risk.

A podiatrist begins by reviewing your symptoms, health history, and footwear. The feet may be examined for skin changes, nerve sensitivity, and pressure points. Testing may be recommended when symptoms suggest neuropathy or another underlying condition. Treatment depends on the cause and may include antifungal medication, footwear changes, or medication recommendations for nerve discomfort. A podiatrist may monitor healing and address contributing foot problems to reduce irritation and protect healthy skin.

Burning feet should not be ignored when symptoms persist, worsen, or interfere with daily activities. Early evaluation can help identify the cause. Keeping feet clean and dry, choosing properly fitted shoes, and checking the skin regularly can support foot health. Many causes can be managed effectively and safely with proper treatment. If you have a burning sensation on the bottom of your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Barry University Foot and Ankle Institute. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in North Miami Beach, Miami, and Tamarac, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

High heels can change how weight is distributed across the feet and affect the way a person stands and walks. When the heel is raised, more body weight shifts toward the front of the foot. This places added pressure on the ball of the foot and nearby joints, which can contribute to pain and stiffness. High heels can also affect balance, posture, and overall foot function. The higher the heel, the more unstable the foot may become, increasing the risk of ankle sprains and other injuries.

Regularly wearing high heels may also affect the toes, heels, and supporting tissues. Narrow or pointed shoes can force the toes into an unnatural position and may contribute to the formation of hammertoes or bunions. High heels also keep the Achilles tendon in a shortened position. This may cause the tendon to become stiff and can contribute to Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis. Pressure and rubbing around the back of the heel may lead to a bony enlargement known as Haglund’s deformity. Because high heels alter normal walking mechanics, their effects can extend beyond the feet and place additional stress on other parts of the body.

A podiatrist can evaluate foot pain related to high-heeled shoes and identify the structures that may be affected. An examination can help determine whether symptoms are connected to joint pressure, tendon problems, or changes in toe alignment. A podiatrist can also assess walking patterns and determine whether an injury or developing foot deformity requires treatment. Addressing persistent symptoms may help reduce the risk of long-term pain and additional foot problems. Professional care is especially important when discomfort begins interfering with walking, work, or other daily activities. If wearing high heels is causing ongoing foot or ankle pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment 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 Barry University Foot and Ankle Institute. 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 North Miami Beach, Miami, and Tamarac, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.