August 2022

There are several foot conditions that may require surgery for permanent relief. Hammertoe is an ailment that affects the toes causing the joints of the second and third toes to bend upward, which pushes the toes downward. This condition is a deformity and surgery may be needed for the toes to be permanently straightened. Patients who have conditions like rheumatoid arthritis may opt for a different type of surgery. A tendon transfer can be successful when the tendon is attached to the bone and across the affected joint. This can pull the toes into a straighter position and may improve the overall appearance of the foot. A type of surgery known as a fusion may improve hammertoe by removing parts of the joints so the bones can grow together. This is often effective in reducing existing pain. Amputation can be a last resort and may be done when no other type of treatment is effective. If you have hammertoe and are interested in learning about the different types of surgery to treat this condition, please consult with a podiatrist.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Integrative Foot & Ankle Centers of Washington. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Kirkland, Everett, and Renton, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that is found on the sole of the foot, and connects the heel to the toes. An injury or repetitive stress may cause this area of tissue to become inflamed, and this is known as plantar fasciitis. Many people who are afflicted with this have severe pain and discomfort, and it is often difficult to walk. Symptoms can include a stabbing pain in the heel, which may be worse upon arising in the morning. When simple stretches are frequently practiced, they may help to reduce some of the discomfort caused by plantar fasciitis. A calf stretch is effective in strengthening the calf muscles. This is done by standing on a step, and lowering one heel at a time until a gentle stretch is felt. Some people find mild relief by placing the sole of their foot on a tennis ball, and rolling it for several seconds over the ball. Additionally, a towel crunch is practiced by placing a towel on the floor, and picking it up with the toes. If you would like more information about stretches to help reduce the pain from plantar fasciitis, please speak with a podiatrist. 

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists  from Integrative Foot & Ankle Centers of Washington. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Kirkland, Everett, and Renton, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

It is recommended that proper foot care is maintained as a daily habit. It is important to practice everyday foot care during the aging process, as this can help in mobility and range of motion. This is needed to enjoy walking, shopping, and generally being active. Wearing comfortable shoes is important to the overall health of the body, and it can be beneficial to alternate the shoes that are worn with a second pair. Additionally, it can help to refrain from walking barefoot, as this can prevent athlete’s foot and blisters. The shoes that are worn can help to improve balance, and decrease the risk of falling.  A good time  to purchase shoes is at the end of the day when the feet are at their largest, and they should feel comfortable from the moment they are tried on. Some patients wear custom made orthotics with existing medical conditions that can consist of arthritis and chronic foot ailments. Trimming the toenails correctly can possibly prevent an ingrown toenail from developing, and corns may be prevented by weaning shoes that have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. If you would like more information about the importance of maintaining elderly foot care, please consult with a podiatrist. 

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Integrative Foot & Ankle Centers of Washington. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Kirkland, Everett, and Renton, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Prefabricated orthotics is another name for over-the-counter (OTC) orthotics. Custom orthotics are constructed to the precise specifications of your foot. With certain foot conditions, such as plantar fasciitis or flatfoot, there is evidence that prefabricated or custom orthotics help. They are not considered to help as much for overuse injuries like tendonitis or stress fractures. Rigid, or very stiff orthotics, can help control the foot position during walking but must exert force against the plantar part of the foot that is three to four times one’s body weight. Rigid orthotics are not particularly comfortable either, and less of this type of orthotic is used. Most often, one wears semi-rigid or accommodative orthotics, and they act almost like a bed for the foot spreading the weight more evenly across the surface of the footwear. When there is an abnormality of the foot, custom orthotics are thought to be better. Know that no orthotic—custom or OTC—will be able to treat all foot problems. Consult with a podiatrist to see which type is best for your condition.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact one of our podiatrists from Integrative Foot & Ankle Centers of Washington. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Kirkland, Everett, and Renton, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Many people have swollen feet and it is a rather common condition. It is easily noticed and can be uncomfortable. An injury is a common cause of this ailment which may disappear after the injury has healed. Additionally, there may be underlying health conditions that may cause the feet to swell and it can be a reason to seek prompt medical attention. Many pregnant women experience swollen feet, which is known as edema. Relief can come from frequently elevating the feet and from reducing salt intake. Various lifestyle factors may contribute to the development of swollen feet including sitting down for the majority of the day, wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, and being overweight. Edema may happen as a side effect of taking certain medications including antidepressants, hormones, or blood pressure medications. Many people have found effective methods that can help to control swollen feet. These can consist of drinking fresh water daily, staying active, losing an appropriate amount of weight, and consuming a healthy diet. If you suffer from swollen feet and would like to be properly diagnosed, please consult with a podiatrist who can guide you toward the correct treatment options.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Integrative Foot & Ankle Centers of Washington. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Kirkland, Everett, and Renton, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Many people have swollen feet and it is a rather common condition. It is easily noticed and can be uncomfortable. An injury is a common cause of this ailment which may disappear after the injury has healed. Additionally, there may be underlying health conditions that may cause the feet to swell and it can be a reason to seek prompt medical attention. Many pregnant women experience swollen feet, which is known as edema. Relief can come from frequently elevating the feet and from reducing salt intake. Various lifestyle factors may contribute to the development of swollen feet including sitting down for the majority of the day, wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, and being overweight. Edema may happen as a side effect of taking certain medications including antidepressants, hormones, or blood pressure medications. Many people have found effective methods that can help to control swollen feet. These can consist of drinking fresh water daily, staying active, losing an appropriate amount of weight, and consuming a healthy diet. If you suffer from swollen feet and would like to be properly diagnosed, please consult with a podiatrist who can guide you toward the correct treatment options.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Integrative Foot & Ankle Centers of Washington. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Kirkland, Everett, and Renton, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.