Foot and Ankle Deformities
The human foot is a complex structure, with 26 bones, 33 joints, and over 100 muscles, tendons and ligaments. All of these structures work together to bear your body weight, transmit force and allow your body to walk and run!
With such an intricate structure, the slightest imbalance or change from the standard foot structure can lead to pain or discomfort. Some of those sources of pain can come from a bunion, plantar fasciitis, tendonitis or much more.
At Serenity Foot and Ankle Specialists we strive to remedy your pain so that you can get back to the activities you want to pursue to live a healthy and fulfilling life. We do this by offering a range of treatment options, from conservative treatment for managing your symptoms to reconstructive surgery. We see treating a patient as a team approach and will include you in the decision making process and will choose the treatment plans that best suit your needs and goals.
Types of Foot Deformities
Hammertoe
There are many causes of hammertoes, however, they are usually caused by an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, and ligaments of the leg and feet. They start out as flexible deformities but can become rigid over time. Most patients find it irritating or painful when the tops of their toes rub on shoe gear. These hammertoes can also become painful themselves because of the shape of the toe changes.
Bunions
Often referred to as a “bump” on the side of the foot, it is often caused by a tight gastroc soleus muscle belly, that leads to overpronation, thus unlocking the midtarsal joint and allowing your first metatarsal to rotate out, causing the bunion.
A similar situation can occur on the 5th metatarsal and is referred to as a tailor’s bunion.
Flat Feet
A flat foot is when you lack or have a decrease in the arch of your foot. A flatfoot can affect the way weight and forces are distributed across your feet as you ambulate. Flatfeet or fallen arches can be very painful and cause a myriad of symptoms and pathologies. Some of these include but are not limited to – heel pain, posterior tibial tendonitis, peroneal tendonitis, bunions, hallux rigidus, and much more! Flatfeet can even cause knee, hip, and back pain!
High Arches
Flat feet are not the only cause of foot pain, high arches can cause pain as well! A high arch, or a cavus foot type can cause pain because body weight and forces are being distributed across the heels and balls of the feet. This is where people with high arches will have most of their pain.
The Earlier You Start Your Treatment, The Better!
Foot and ankle pathologies in their earlier stages tend to be easier to treat and influence than those deformities that have become more rigid. The sooner you see us for treatment, the sooner you will be able to get back to the activities you love to do! But don’t be alarmed! Chronic conditions are treatable as well! Make an appointment today!