Children's feet are a critical part of their development. Children's feet continue to mature until about age 13. For that reason, providing them with appropriate shoes from an early age is important for their natural development. Kids experience rapid growth, with up to nine size changes in their first three years. Regular measurements and well-fitted shoes are necessary during this period to prevent deformities. Moreover, children's feet endure about three times more stress than adults due to their high activity levels, making shoes with shock absorption, proper footbeds, and durability vital. Additionally, it is important to recognize that foot problems in adulthood often stem from childhood issues, like ill-fitting shoes, emphasizing the importance of proper footwear. Furthermore, arch support for children differs from that of adults, as children's arches develop later. Look for shoes that provide arch support or high-quality footbeds. Breathable materials like leather and canvas are ideal, while shoes made of plastics should be avoided. The right shoe size matters as shoes that are too small or too large can lead to discomfort and hinder proper growth. In the debate between soft and hard sole shoes, both sides have valid points, but hybrid options offer a balanced solution. If you would like to ensure the best foot health for your child, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to have your child’s feet examined and to heed recommendations made by this expert.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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

In the world of rugby, players frequently grapple with the physical demands of their sport, including that associated with tackles and rapid bursts of running. These actions place immense strain on the feet and ankles, crucial for balance and propulsion in scrums or while evading tackles. Proper form is paramount, especially when deadlifting and squatting. In junior and adolescent rugby, common foot related issues include Osgood-Schlatter's and Sinding-Larsen-Johansson syndrome, which cause knee pain, as well as Sever's disease, leading to heel discomfort. Shin splints and ankle sprains are also prevalent. Senior rugby players encounter additional concerns such as forefoot pain, calf and hamstring tears, and conditions that can include plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendon pain. Preventing and treating these issues involves assessments, tailored treatments, and analyzing movement patterns. It is also beneficial to address structural problems, and incorporate strength programs and balance training. Treatments range from strapping and having footwear assessments to orthotics and advanced rehabilitation techniques. If you or your child plays rugby, and especially if either one of you has endured a foot or ankle injury, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for further advice and necessary treatment.

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 one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. Our doctors 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 Brunswick, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Shockwave therapy is a potential treatment for chronic foot pain problems, including plantar fasciitis and calcific tendonitis. It uses shockwaves delivered to the body to stimulate healing in affected tissues. There are high-energy and low-energy forms of this therapy. Low-energy shockwave treatment involves a series of sessions that are not very painful. In contrast, high-energy shockwave treatment is typically done in one session and can be quite painful, often requiring anesthesia. This therapy induces microtrauma to the affected tissue, triggering a healing response, increased blood vessel formation, and nutrient delivery to the area. It can relieve pain and promote tissue repair. Shockwave therapy is noninvasive, making it an attractive option for more challenging conditions. There are studies that support its effectiveness, particularly for calcific tendonitis and plantar fasciitis, with minimal reported complications. While more conservative measures may be tried first, it is considered a safe alternative to surgery for patients with chronic plantar fasciitis who have not responded to standard treatments. If you are at a point where more traditional treatments have not relieved pain from chronic foot conditions and surgery is being considered, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss whether shockwave therapy might be a possible alternative for you.

Shockwave therapy is a treatment commonly used to treat various injuries and conditions, particularly plantar fasciitis in the feet. To learn more, consult with one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy is a new treatment option designed to treat bone conditions such as tennis elbow, shoulder pain, and others. Shockwave therapy uses high intensity sound waves that are directed to the affected tissues of the body with pinpoint accuracy. The effects are very beneficial, leading to a production of collagen fibers, eliminating inflammation.

Who Benefits from Shockwave?

Shockwave is recommended for patients suffering from heel pain and associated problems. Heel pain is a common condition which can be caused by obesity, overexertion, and spending a substantial amount of time on hard floors with your feet exposed and unsupported.

Fast and Easy

The therapy is actually a simple process that can leave patients feeling better the very next day. Shockwave therapy is not as dramatic as it sounds. It enables more blood flow to effected areas, addressing the source of the problem and allowing treatment to last for a long time.

Treatment & Recovery Time

Shockwave treatment will enable your feet to recover quickly. This is especially important since surgery is not required. It is cost effective and does not require the use of anesthesia. This treatment is a better option to surgery, since it is proven safe.

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