Adult flat feet occur when the arches of the feet collapse or flatten, leading to a lack of natural arch support. One common cause is excessive body weight, which places extra pressure on the feet and can weaken the arch over time. Foot or ankle injuries, such as fractures or sprains, can also damage the structures supporting the arch, leading to flat feet. Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, is another contributor, as the inflammation it causes can affect the joints in the feet, leading to a collapse of the arch. As people age, the tendons and ligaments in the feet naturally weaken, making flat feet more common. Symptoms of adult flat feet include foot pain, swelling, and fatigue, particularly after prolonged standing or walking. If you have flat feet, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Paul Hutchison, DPM from Hutchison Foot Clinic. 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 Memphis, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Football and soccer players are prone to various ankle injuries due to the fast-paced, high-impact nature of the sport. A common injury is a lateral ligament sprain, which occurs when the ligaments on the outside of the ankle stretch or tear, often from sudden twists or turns. Osteochondral lesions, which involve damage to the cartilage or bone in the ankle joint, can result from repeated trauma or heavy impacts. Ankle impingement occurs when soft tissues or bone structures in the joint become compressed, leading to pain and restricted movement. Similarly, soft tissue impingement happens when tendons or other tissues become pinched within the ankle, causing inflammation and discomfort. Proper conditioning, warm-up exercises, and wearing appropriate footwear can help prevent these injuries. If you play football or soccer and have sustained a foot or ankle injury, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat various foot conditions.

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 Paul Hutchison, DPM from Hutchison Foot Clinic. Our doctor 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 feel free to contact our office located in Memphis, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Moccasin-type athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the soles of the feet, often causing dry, itchy, and thickened skin. Unlike the classic form of athlete’s foot, which typically appears between the toes, or a type that causes blisters on the sole of the foot, moccasin-type covers the bottom and sides of the foot, resembling the fit of a moccasin. This type can cause scaling, cracking, and even a rough texture that may extend to the heels. Moccasin-type athlete’s foot is stubborn and can be difficult to treat, as the fungus may penetrate deeper skin layers. People with sweaty feet, compromised immune systems, or a history of foot infections are at higher risk. Treatment often involves topical antifungal creams or, in persistent cases, oral antifungals. To prevent recurrence, keeping feet clean, dry, and wearing breathable shoes is essential. If you have developed what seems to be a fungal infection on your feet, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for care.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Paul Hutchison, DPM from Hutchison Foot Clinic. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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