Flexible flat feet are common in children. They occur when the arches flatten while standing, but return when the child sits or rises onto the toes. Some children have no symptoms, while others may develop foot pain, tired legs, or discomfort after activity. Flexible flat feet can affect comfort and movement, especially when children participate in sports or walk for long periods. A podiatric evaluation can determine whether treatment is needed.

Several factors can increase the risk of developing flexible flat feet. Family history, ligament flexibility, and certain foot structures may contribute. Rapid growth can also change how a child stands and walks. Children with flexible flat feet may experience heel or arch discomfort, ankle fatigue, or changes in walking patterns. Although flat feet do not always cause problems, consistent pain or difficulty with activities warrants podiatric attention.

Orthotics can provide support for children whose flexible flat feet cause discomfort or affect movement. A podiatrist may first examine foot structure, walking patterns, and tenderness. The podiatrist may then recommend supportive shoes or custom orthotics. Properly fitted orthotics can help support the arch, improve alignment, and increase comfort during everyday activities. Follow-up visits allow the podiatrist to check fit, comfort, and treatment response.

Supporting healthy feet can help children stay active. Orthotics are not necessary for every child with flexible flat feet, so treatment should be based on symptoms and examination findings. A podiatrist may also recommend activity adjustments, footwear changes, and routine monitoring, when needed. Parents should seek evaluation if a child has persistent pain, fatigue, or difficulty keeping up with peers. If your child has pain from having flat feet and you want to consider insoles, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what type of orthotic is the most beneficial.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Lesly Honore, MD, DPM from New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

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

Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, affects the blood vessels that carry blood to the legs and feet. It develops when arteries in the legs become narrowed, reducing the amount of blood that reaches nearby tissues. A common cause is atherosclerosis, which occurs when fatty material called plaque builds up along artery walls. Reduced circulation means the muscles may not receive enough blood and oxygen during activity. As PAD becomes more severe, circulation can remain limited even while a person is resting. Diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol can increase the risk of developing PAD.

Poor circulation from PAD can cause noticeable symptoms in the lower legs and feet. Pain, aching, or burning may occur during walking or exercise and improve after several minutes of rest. Some people develop numbness in the legs or feet while resting. The affected foot may also feel cool or appear pale. As the condition progresses, pain may begin with less activity and eventually occur at rest. Severe PAD can cause slow-healing sores on the feet or toes. Skin discoloration and changes in the toenails may also develop. These symptoms are important because reduced circulation can make it harder for damaged tissues to heal properly.

A podiatrist can examine the feet for signs that may be associated with poor circulation and determine when further medical evaluation is necessary. An examination may reveal a weak pulse, skin changes, or slow-healing sores. PAD can be evaluated with tests that compare blood pressure in the arms and legs or examine blood flow through the arteries. Because severe PAD can lead to serious complications, changes such as new foot sores should not be ignored. A foot that suddenly becomes cool, pale, or numb also requires medical attention. If poor circulation is causing persistent foot pain or noticeable changes in your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate care options.

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Lesly Honore, MD, DPM of New York. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
• Pain
• Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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

A broken toe occurs when one of the bones in a toe becomes fractured. This can happen after a direct impact, a fall, or an accident that places too much force on the toe. Pain and swelling can develop soon after the injury. Bruising can also appear, and the toe may be difficult to move. Some patients have trouble putting weight on the foot because movement can increase discomfort. The severity of a broken toe depends on which bone is affected and the type of fracture. A podiatrist can examine the toe and determine whether the injury needs additional evaluation or treatment.

A podiatrist can assess the injured toe and determine whether the bone is positioned correctly. Some broken toes can heal with support that keeps the toe stable while the bone heals. A more serious fracture can require a different treatment approach. A podiatrist can also monitor healing during follow-up visits and check for problems with movement, pain, or swelling. Most broken toes heal within several weeks, although the exact healing time depends on the injury. Follow-up care can help confirm that the toe is healing properly and that its position remains stable.

Certain symptoms can signal a more serious problem with a broken toe. Severe pain, a toe that becomes pale or cool, or changes in color should receive prompt evaluation. Numbness, tingling, or weakness can also indicate that the injury is affecting normal nerve function. Increasing pain and swelling can be another reason to have the toe examined. A podiatrist can evaluate these symptoms and determine the appropriate course of treatment. Professional care can also help address problems that could affect the toe’s movement or function. If you have fractured your toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Lesly Honore, MD, DPM from New York. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Hempstead, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Pronation is the natural inward rolling motion of the foot as it lands while running. This movement absorbs shock and helps the foot adjust to the ground. Problems can develop when the foot rolls inward too far, called overpronation. The foot can also roll inward too little, known as underpronation or supination. Either pattern can change how force travels through the feet, ankles, and legs. Some runners experience no symptoms, while others develop arch, heel, or ankle pain. These may also affect the knees or shins as the body adjusts to poor foot movement.

Several factors can contribute to pronation problems in runners. Flat feet, high arches, and weak foot muscles can affect how the feet move. Running form and training habits can also place added stress on areas. Shoes that lack proper support or do not match a runner’s foot type can worsen discomfort. Signs include uneven shoe wear, repeated foot injuries, and pain after exercise. However, shoe wear alone cannot confirm an abnormal gait. A podiatrist can watch the patient walk or run and examine the foot’s structure. This evaluation can show whether pronation contributes to pain or another condition is responsible.

Treatment depends on symptoms, foot structure, and activity level. A podiatrist can recommend supportive running shoes with suitable cushioning. Custom orthotics may be prescribed to improve foot alignment and distribute pressure more evenly. The podiatrist can also assess training patterns and suggest safe changes to running distance or intensity. When an injury is present, treatment can focus on reducing pressure and protecting the area. Follow-up visits allow the podiatrist to check whether symptoms and movement have improved. Addressing pronation problems can help runners move efficiently and reduce stress on the feet. It can lower the risk of repeated pain that interrupts training. If you have foot pain during or after running, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Lesly Honore, MD, DPM from New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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