Flat feet occur when the arches of the feet collapse or never fully develop, causing the entire sole to touch the ground. While some people experience no pain, others may develop foot fatigue, aching, or imbalance, especially after long periods of standing or walking. Flat feet can be inherited or result from injury, obesity, or medical conditions that weaken tendons and ligaments. Wearing supportive footwear and custom orthotics helps improve alignment, reduce strain, and relieve discomfort. Stretching and strengthening exercises for the feet and calves can also enhance stability and mobility. In severe cases, surgical correction may be necessary. Flat feet can affect posture and lead to pain in the knees, hips, or back. If you experience ongoing discomfort, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for proper diagnosis and personalized treatment to restore comfort and prevent future complications.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Barry University Foot and Ankle Institute. 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 Miami, North Miami Beach, Miami Beach, and Tamarac, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Strong and flexible ankles are essential for volleyball players to prevent sprains and maintain performance. Simple stretches like the ankle alphabet, where you trace letters in the air with your toes, can improve mobility and strengthen stabilizing muscles. Ankle rolls help warm up the joints, while dorsiflexion stretches the muscles at the front of the ankle to enhance range of motion. Additionally, inversion stretches target the inner ankle, promoting balance and flexibility. Performing these exercises regularly can reduce the risk of injury during jumps and quick movements. A podiatrist can assess ankle strength, recommend customized exercises, and provide support for recovery. If you have injured your foot or ankle while playing volleyball, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions and guide you on additional injury protection tips.

Why Stretching Is Important for Your Feet

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet 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.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first to determine if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

• Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
• Similar to the previous exercise, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
• Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
• Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising to ice and rest the foot. It is advised that you then see a podiatrist for help.

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

Soccer players put their feet under constant stress, which can lead to several common problems. Scrapes may occur from contact with the ground or another player. Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that thrives in damp shoes, causing itching and redness. Blisters form from friction between the skin and cleats, while calluses develop as thickened skin from repeated pressure. Ingrown toenails can result from improper nail trimming or tight footwear, causing pain and swelling. Prevention includes wearing well-fitted cleats, keeping feet clean and dry, and trimming nails correctly. A podiatrist can diagnose and treat these issues, while offering personalized advice for prevention. If you enjoy playing soccer, and have developed foot or ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can treat various issues of this nature. 

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, 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.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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

Falls are a leading health concern for older adults, and many causes can be traced to the feet and ankles. Painful conditions such as bunions, hammertoes, or arthritis may affect balance and stability, while neuropathy can reduce sensation, making it harder to feel the ground when walking. Age-related changes, including weaker foot and ankle muscles, can also contribute to instability and increase the risk of falling. Poor circulation or swelling in the feet may alter gait and cause frequent stumbling. Wearing shoes that lack adequate support, high heels, or backless styles like flip-flops can reduce stability and increase the likelihood of a slip or fall. A podiatrist can evaluate the feet for underlying issues, provide supportive devices such as orthotics, recommend proper footwear, and, when necessary, perform surgery to correct deformities that interfere with safe walking. If you are at risk for falling or have recently fallen several times, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and appropriate treatment.

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