Flat feet occur when the arches of the feet collapse, causing the entire sole to touch the ground. This condition can lead to pronation issues, foot and leg pain, reduced shock absorption, and muscle fatigue during daily activities. While flat feet can create challenges, there are effective ways to improve comfort and function. Supportive footwear, strengthening exercises, and a consistent stretching routine can reduce strain. Orthotic inserts provide added support and help correct alignment. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity of flat feet, recommend personalized treatment options, and guide long-term care to prevent complications. If you have discomfort from flat feet, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can provide effective relief and treatment solutions.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Charles Oehrlein, DPM from Hoover Foot Care. Our practitioner 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 Hoover, Oneonta, and Munford, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ankle arthritis is a condition where the cartilage in the ankle joint wears down, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness that limit mobility. When conservative treatments are not effective, ankle surgery may be recommended. Ankle arthroscopy uses small instruments to remove damaged tissue and smooth the joint. Ankle fusion joins the bones of the ankle to eliminate pain and increase stability. Additionally, joint replacement replaces the damaged joint with an artificial implant to restore movement. A podiatrist can assess your condition, recommend the best treatment, and provide exercise  guidance for long term success. If arthritis is affecting your ankles, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to explore whether surgical options are right for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Charles Oehrlein, DPM of Hoover Foot Care. Our practitioner will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Stress fractures in the feet are hairline cracks in the bone that often develop from repetitive force, rather than a single traumatic event. Stress fractures generally occur in the long bones of the foot, which endure significant impact during walking, running, and jumping. Overtraining, sudden increases in activity, or inadequate rest between workouts raise the risk. Foot structure also plays a role, with flat feet, high arches, or rigid arches contributing to uneven distribution of pressure that can stress certain bones. People with osteoporosis or low bone density are at higher risk, and nutritional deficiencies, such as inadequate calcium or vitamin D, may weaken bone strength. A podiatrist can confirm a diagnosis through examination and imaging, recommend appropriate footwear or orthotics, and advise whether surgery is required in severe cases. If you have symptoms of stress fractures in your feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Charles Oehrlein, DPM from Hoover Foot Care. Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Hoover, Oneonta, and Munford, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.