Foot deformities are structural changes that affect the shape or function of the feet and ankles. Some are present at birth, while others develop during childhood or adulthood. Congenital deformities can cause the forefoot to curve inward, the heel or ankle to sit abnormally, or the foot to point upward or downward, which may interfere with early walking patterns. In children and adults, deformities like flat feet, high arches, or inward-rolling ankles can alter balance and place added stress on joints. Deformities that mainly appear in adulthood often involve toe alignment, including bunions and hammertoes. Widening of the forefoot or limited ankle motion that changes gait are other factors.  A podiatrist can assess alignment, joint movement, muscle strength, and walking mechanics to identify the type of deformity you may have. For help in dealing with a foot deformity, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of out podiatrists from Alta Ridge Foot Specialist. 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 Mars Hill, Spruce Pine, and Boone, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A broken foot refers to a fracture in one or more bones of the foot that disrupts normal movement and weight-bearing. Healing time can vary depending on the location and severity of the fracture, overall health, and how well the foot is protected during recovery. Common symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, tenderness, and difficulty standing or walking. Causes often involve falls, sports injuries, repetitive stress, or direct impact. Risk factors include osteoporosis, overuse, wearing improper footwear, and high-impact activities. A podiatrist can accurately diagnose the injury using a physical examination and imaging, create a personalized treatment plan, and monitor healing progress. If you have symptoms of a broken foot, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact one of out podiatrists from Alta Ridge Foot Specialist. Our doctors 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 offices located in Mars Hill, Spruce Pine, and Boone, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot pain can develop for many reasons, and body weight is just one factor that may affect comfort during standing and walking. The feet support the body throughout the day, and additional weight can increase stress on joints, soft tissue, and arches over time. This may contribute to heel pain, arch strain, joint stiffness, or soreness in the ball of the foot. Extra pressure can also affect circulation and lead to swelling, which may change how shoes fit and feel. These changes are not a reflection of effort or lifestyle alone, as genetics, age, medical conditions, and activity level all play a role. Wearing supportive footwear, proper foot care, and attention to early symptoms can make a meaningful difference in comfort. Addressing foot pain early helps maintain mobility and quality of life. If foot discomfort becomes persistent or limits your daily activities, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact one of out podiatrists from Alta Ridge Foot Specialist. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Obesity and Your Feet

Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.

Problems & Complications

Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.

Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.

Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Mars Hill, Spruce Pine, and Boone, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel and arch discomfort that can interfere with daily movement and comfort. Targeted exercises can help relieve pain by improving flexibility, strength, and support in the foot and lower leg. The gastrocnemius stretch is performed by standing with one leg behind the other and gently leaning forward to stretch the upper calf, which helps reduce strain on the heel. The soleus stretch is done in a similar position with the back knee slightly bent to target deeper calf muscles that affect walking mechanics. Additionally, a plantar fascia stretch can be performed by pulling the toes back toward the shin while seated to stretch the tissue along the bottom of the foot. Strengthening exercises such as the short foot exercise involve gently lifting the arch without curling the toes, while marble pick ups require grasping small objects with the toes to improve muscle control. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately plantar fasciitis, and guide you toward additional pain-relieving techniques.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of out podiatrists from Alta Ridge Foot Specialist. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctors to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Mars Hill, Spruce Pine, and Boone, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.