Flat feet occur when the arches along the inside of the feet are low or flatten when standing. The arches help distribute body weight and support efficient movement while walking or standing. Some people have flat feet from childhood, while others develop them later in life. Changes in muscles or tendons that support the arch can contribute to flattening. Age, injury, and repeated stress on the feet can also play a role. Some people with flat feet have no discomfort. Others experience foot pain, tired feet, or swelling near the ankle. Pain can also develop in the heel or arch. Flat feet can affect how weight moves through the feet, which can change the way a person stands and walks.

A podiatrist can evaluate flat feet by examining the arches and observing how the feet function while standing and walking. An examination can include checking foot flexibility, ankle movement, and areas of tenderness. The podiatrist can also assess how the heels and ankles are positioned when weight is placed on the feet. Treatment depends on the patient's symptoms and how flat feet affect daily activities. Custom orthotics can provide added support and help improve the way pressure is distributed across the feet. A podiatrist can also recommend appropriate shoes that provide support and fit the patient's foot structure. Targeted exercises can be prescribed to improve strength and flexibility in the feet and lower legs.

Flat feet can make prolonged standing, walking, and physical activity uncomfortable for some patients. Changes in foot movement can also place added stress on the ankles, knees, or lower legs. A podiatrist can identify these movement patterns and develop a treatment plan focused on reducing discomfort and supporting better foot function. Care can be adjusted according to the patient's activity level and response to treatment. Improving support and pressure distribution can help the feet function more efficiently during everyday activities. Treatment can also address related problems that develop because of changes in foot mechanics. If you have symptoms of flat feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Darron Barrus, DPM from Shelby Podiatry. 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 office located in Alabaster, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A broken foot, also called a foot fracture, occurs when one or more bones in the foot crack or break. It can happen after a fall, direct impact, or repeated stress. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the foot. Some people hear a snap or grinding noise when the injury happens. Walking may become difficult or impossible, especially when pressure is placed on the injured area.

Several factors can increase the risk of a broken foot. Sports activities, falls, and weakened bones can make fractures more likely. Wearing improper footwear may also increase injury risk during certain activities. Stress fractures can develop gradually from repeated impact, particularly after sudden changes in exercise. A podiatrist can evaluate the injury, review how it happened, and foot movement. X-rays or other imaging tests may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment depends on the location and severity of the fracture. A podiatrist may recommend immobilization with a cast or walking boot to protect the injured bones. Some fractures may require crutches or limited weight-bearing while healing. More serious breaks may need surgical treatment to realign and stabilize the bones. Follow-up appointments help monitor healing and ensure that the foot remains properly aligned. Avoid returning to strenuous activity until the foot has recovered.

Many broken feet heal in about four to six weeks, although recovery can take longer depending on the severity of the fracture and overall health. Following weight-bearing instructions is important for proper healing. Keep the foot protected and report increasing pain, swelling, or color changes promptly. Gradually returning to normal activity can help prevent reinjury and help restore safe, comfortable movement. If you have broken your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Darron Barrus, DPM from Shelby Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Alabaster, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ankle injuries are common in skateboarding as the result of quick direction changes, jumps, and sudden landings. One frequent injury is an ankle sprain, which occurs when ligaments that support the ankle stretch or tear. Inversion sprains happen when the foot rolls inward, placing stress on the outer ankle ligaments, and eversion sprains occur when the foot rolls outward and strain the inner ligaments. Sprains are also classified by severity. A Grade I sprain involves mild ligament stretching, while a Grade II sprain includes partial ligament tearing. A Grade III sprain involves a complete ligament tear and significant instability. Risk factors include uneven landings, improper footwear, and previous injuries. A podiatrist can evaluate ankle stability and guide recovery. If you enjoy skateboarding and have injured your ankle, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Darron Barrus, DPM of Shelby Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Alabaster, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ingrown toenails are a common foot problem seen by podiatrists, often affecting the big toe. They occur when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin instead of over it. The area may be red, swollen, or even infected, sometimes with drainage or overgrown skin. It often feels sore at first, then progresses to sharp pain, throbbing, and discomfort when walking or wearing shoes. Causes include improper nail trimming, tight footwear, and genetics. A podiatrist can help from the start by properly diagnosing the condition and ruling out infection or other nail disorders. Treatment may begin with gentle nail care and inflammation control, then move into in-office procedures to remove the ingrown portion of the nail. Ongoing care may include prevention guidance, nail correction, or permanent solutions when needed. Early treatment helps prevent infection and ongoing pain. If you have a painful ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Darron Barrus, DPM of Shelby Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Alabaster, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.