Flat feet is a condition where the arch of the foot is absent or significantly lowered, causing the entire sole to come into contact with the ground. Flat feet can develop due to genetics, injury, aging, or weakening of the tendons that support the arch. Symptoms include foot pain, fatigue, swelling along the inside of the ankle, and difficulty standing or walking for long periods of time. Risk factors include obesity, repetitive strain, and certain medical conditions that affect connective tissue. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, assess gait, and provide supportive treatments. Among them are custom orthotics, strengthening exercises, and proper footwear guidance. If you have discomfort from flat feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Imaze Marian Davis, DPM from Marian Davis, DPM, PA. Our doctors 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 Miami, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Regaining strength after spraining an ankle is essential for stability and prevention of repeat injuries. A sprain stretches or tears ligaments, the strong bands that hold the joint together, leading to weakness and poor control of movement. Early recovery focuses on improving range of motion, meaning how well the ankle can move in different directions. As healing progresses, strengthening exercises target the muscles and tendons that support the joint. This helps the ankle handle weight and movement again. Balance training is also important, as it improves coordination and reduces the risk of chronic sprains. A podiatrist can guide this process by evaluating joint function, recommending supportive bracing, and prescribing custom orthotics to improve alignment and reduce strain. They may also design a structured rehabilitation plan to rebuild strength safely and effectively. If you have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Imaze Marian Davis, DPM from Marian Davis, DPM, PA. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

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

Muscle imbalance in the feet can lead to a variety of physical problems and altered patterns of movement over time. When certain muscles are weaker or tighter than others, the foot may not function properly during walking or standing. This imbalance can place abnormal stress on the joints of the foot, which may affect gait and lead to discomfort or instability. As movement patterns change, additional strain can develop in the ankles, knees, hips, and lower back. Risk factors may include wearing poor footwear, overuse, injury, or structural issues. Without proper care, these imbalances can worsen and interfere with daily activity. A podiatrist can help by evaluating foot function, correcting imbalances, and providing targeted treatment. If you have foot pain, discomfort, or changes while walking, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer appropriate treatment solutions.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Imaze Marian Davis, DPM from Marian Davis, DPM, PA. Our doctors 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 Miami, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A chronic autoimmune condition that causes hardening and tightening of the skin and connective tissues, affects the feet and impairs mobility. This condition, called progressive systemic sclerosis, can lead to painful joints, stiffness, and reduced foot functionality, making daily activities challenging. Risk factors include female gender, age between 30 and 50, and a family history of autoimmune disorders. Other symptoms include Raynaud's phenomenon, skin changes, and gastrointestinal difficulties. Relief is often achieved by improving foot functionality through exercises, wearing  proper footwear, orthotics, and targeted therapies. A podiatrist can assess structural changes, recommend customized treatments, and monitor foot health to reduce pain and improve mobility. If you have symptoms of this condition, it is suggested that you seek care from a  podiatrist who can offer you a proper diagnosis and appropriate care.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact Imaze Marian Davis, DPM of Marian Davis, DPM, PA. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

• Freiberg’s disease
• Kohler’s disease
• Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

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