Flat feet in children, often referred to as pediatric flatfoot, is a condition in which the arch of the foot does not fully develop. This causes the entire sole to come into contact with the ground. This is common in infants and younger children, as the arch typically forms gradually as muscles strengthen and bones mature. In many cases, flat feet resolve naturally with growth. However, when the condition persists or begins to cause symptoms, it may affect posture, balance, and overall movement patterns. A clear understanding of flat feet can help parents determine when observation is appropriate and when professional evaluation is needed. The symptoms of flat feet in children can range from mild to more noticeable concerns. Some children remain symptom free, while others may report aching in the feet, heel discomfort, or fatigue after activity. Parents may observe that the ankles roll inward, a pattern known as overpronation, or that shoes wear unevenly over time. Children may also avoid physical activities that involve running or prolonged standing due to discomfort. These signs can indicate that the structure of the foot is influencing stability and alignment.

There are several causes and risk factors associated with pediatric flatfoot. Genetics is one of the most common influences, as children may inherit flexible foot structures or low arches from family members. Additional contributors include ligament laxity, muscle weakness, or differences in bone development. Excess body weight can increase stress on the feet and contribute to arch flattening. In some cases, flat feet may be linked to underlying neurological or developmental conditions that affect coordination and muscle control.

While flat feet are often a normal part of early development, ongoing symptoms should not be overlooked. Early recognition and evaluation can support proper alignment and help prevent long-term strain on the feet and lower extremities. If your child is experiencing discomfort or difficulty with movement, it is suggested you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and guidance on appropriate care and management.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Larry J. Kipp, DPM from Coastal Podiatry Center. 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 New Port Richey, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete's foot is a fungal skin infection that usually begins between the toes. A fungus is a tiny living organism that grows best in warm, damp environments. The infection can spread to other parts of the foot, and, in some cases, to the toenails. Symptoms include itching, burning, and peeling skin. Some people also develop redness, cracking, or small blisters. The skin can become sore and uncomfortable while walking, especially when the infection worsens. Because several skin conditions have similar symptoms, an accurate diagnosis is important. A podiatrist carefully examines the affected skin and determines whether another condition is causing the problem. In some cases, a small skin sample is examined to confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment.

Athlete's foot spreads through direct contact with the fungus or by touching contaminated surfaces. Places like locker rooms, public showers, and swimming pool areas can increase the chance of exposure. The infection is also more likely to develop when feet remain warm and moist for long periods. Wearing shoes that lack proper support can increase pressure on irritated skin, making walking more uncomfortable, although these shoes do not cause the infection itself. Without proper treatment, athlete's foot can spread to other areas of the foot or lead to bacterial infections. A bacterial infection develops when harmful bacteria enter cracked skin, causing increased redness, swelling, and pain.

A podiatrist provides treatment based on the severity and location of the infection. Care includes confirming the diagnosis, prescribing medications to eliminate the fungus, and monitoring the skin as it heals. If the infection has spread to the toenails or becomes persistent, additional treatment helps prevent further damage. Prompt care also lowers the risk of complications and reduces the chance of the infection returning. Professional podiatric treatment helps restore healthy skin and allows people to return to normal daily activities with greater comfort and confidence. If you have symptoms of athlete's foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment tips, which may include prescribed medication.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Larry J. Kipp, DPM from Coastal Podiatry Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, instead of growing straight outward. This most often affects the big toe and can lead to pain, swelling, and irritation along the nail border. An ingrown toenail can range from mild discomfort to a more serious infection if not properly treated. One of the most common causes of an ingrown toenail is improper nail trimming. Cutting toenails too short or rounding the edges can encourage the nail to grow into the skin. Wearing tight-fitting shoes or shoes with a narrow toe box can add pressure and increase the likelihood of nail misdirection. Repetitive trauma, such as running or kicking activities, may also contribute to the development of this condition. In some cases, genetics plays a role, as certain individuals naturally have curved or thicker nails that are more prone to becoming ingrown.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Larry J. Kipp, DPM of Coastal Podiatry Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

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

A small growth on the bottom of the heel bone may indicate a heel spur. Patients who have plantar fasciitis may have heel spurs, and this affects the tendon that runs along the bottom of the foot. People who are afflicted with heel spurs often notice heel pain after arising in the morning, and mild relief may be found while walking. The pain may become worse if running or participating in sporting activities, and it is beneficial to rest and elevate the affected foot. It may be helpful to take anti-inflammatory medications which may partially reduce existing pain. If you have the symptoms of a heel spur, it is strongly suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can recommend the correct treatment options for you, which may include custom-made orthotics.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Larry J. Kipp, DPM from Coastal Podiatry Center. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

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