Items filtered by date: December 2025

Flat feet occur when the arches of the feet collapse, causing the entire sole to touch the ground. This condition can lead to pain in the feet, ankles, and even the lower legs. Strengthening and stretching exercises are important for helping people with flat feet because they improve the function of the muscles that support the arch. Weak or imbalanced muscles, such as the posterior tibial muscle, can increase stress on the arch and contribute to plantar fasciitis, a painful inflammation of the band of tissue that connects the heel to the toes. Exercises designed to build strength in the foot and ankle help improve alignment, stability, and flexibility, allowing the feet to absorb impact more efficiently. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, recommend specific exercises, and suggest supportive footwear or custom orthotics to help manage pain. If you often have foot pain linked to flat feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and effective relief tips.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Frederick Matthews, DPM from Innovative Foot and Ankle Care. 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 Plano, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A hammertoe deformity develops when a toe bends abnormally at the middle joint, creating a fixed Z-shaped position that makes it difficult to straighten. The second toe is most commonly affected, although the third or fourth toes may also be involved. A hammertoe deformity typically develops from tendon imbalances that pull the toe into the bent position. Contributing factors include unusually long toe or metatarsal bones, improper alignment of joints in the foot, inflammatory conditions like arthritis, and years of wearing shoes with a tight or narrow toe box. Because part of the affected toe sits higher than normal, constant friction against footwear can cause corns, calluses, or open sores. Pain is often noticed while walking, and some people also feel pressure in the ball of the foot. A podiatrist can evaluate the deformity, provide effective treatment, and discuss whether surgery is necessary. If you notice changes in the structure of your toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and  appropriate treatment.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Frederick Matthews, DPM from Innovative Foot and Ankle Care. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

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