Running places repeated stress on the feet and ankles with every step. The impact from training, racing, and long-distance running can lead to foot problems that interfere with performance and comfort. Some runners develop plantar fasciitis, which causes pain along the bottom of the heel. Others experience stress fractures, which are small cracks in the bone caused by repeated force. Tendon injuries can also occur when the tissues that connect muscles to bones become irritated or inflamed. Foot pain may begin gradually or appear after a change in training intensity. Running on uneven surfaces can also increase strain on the feet. Shoes that do not fit properly or footwear that lacks adequate support can place additional pressure on certain areas of the foot and increase the risk of injury.

Symptoms vary depending on the condition involved. Runners may notice heel pain, arch pain, or pain in the ball of the foot. Swelling, tenderness, and stiffness can also develop. Some people experience pain only while running. Others continue to feel discomfort after activity has ended. Stress fractures frequently cause pain that becomes worse with repeated activity. Tendon problems often create soreness near the ankle or along the top of the foot. Changes in running form can also contribute to foot problems by placing excess stress on muscles, tendons, and joints. Ignoring symptoms can allow an injury to worsen and make recovery more difficult.

A podiatrist can identify the cause of running-related foot pain through a detailed examination and diagnostic testing. X-rays and other imaging studies help detect bone injuries and soft tissue damage. Treatment includes activity modifications, custom orthotics, and stretching or strengthening exercises designed to improve foot function. Some runners benefit from gait analysis, which evaluates how the foot moves while running. A podiatrist can also recommend appropriate shoes based on foot structure and running style. If you have foot pain during or after running, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate relief and treatment solutions.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Monique Mitchell, DPM of Family Foot Centre. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries? 
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

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

Ingrown toenails are a painful foot condition that occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin. This problem most often affects the big toe. As the nail presses into the skin, irritation develops and the area becomes inflamed. Common causes include trimming the nails incorrectly, wearing tight-fitting shoes, and repeated pressure on the toes. Some people are born with nails that curve more than usual. This can increase the risk of developing an ingrown toenail. Athletes and others who spend long hours on their feet are also more likely to experience this condition. An ingrown toenail can begin as a minor problem, but it can quickly become more painful when the nail continues to grow into the skin.

Symptoms of an ingrown toenail include tenderness, redness, and swelling along the side of the nail. Pain is usually more noticeable when wearing shoes or when walking. As the condition worsens, the skin around the nail can become warm and increasingly sensitive. In some cases, drainage develops and a bacterial infection can occur. This can lead to additional swelling and discomfort. People with diabetes or circulation problems face a greater risk of complications from an infected ingrown toenail. Prompt evaluation by a podiatrist is important because the condition can become more serious when left untreated.

A podiatrist can diagnose an ingrown toenail through a careful examination of the affected toe. Treatment depends on the severity of the condition. Mild cases may respond to professional care that relieves pressure around the nail. More advanced cases may require a surgical procedure to remove part of the nail and prevent it from growing into the skin again. A podiatrist can treat infection and prescribe medication to reduce inflammation. Early treatment can help relieve pain and improve comfort while walking. If you have a painful ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Monique Mitchell, DPM of Family Foot Centre. 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 Garden Hills, Nassau, Bahamas . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Flat feet is a common condition where the natural arch of the foot is either low or absent, leading to increased ground contact and altered movement patterns. This condition can be present from childhood or develop later. Factors include injury, weight gain, or repetitive stress. When the arch is not properly supported, the foot may struggle to absorb shock efficiently. This can affect posture and contribute to discomfort in the lower body. Understanding how to support the foot correctly is essential for maintaining long-term mobility and comfort.

Symptoms associated with flat feet include aching in the arches or heels, stiffness in the feet, and discomfort that worsens with activity. Some individuals may also experience knee or lower back strain due to improper alignment. Risk factors include family history, ligament laxity, prolonged standing, and footwear that lacks adequate support. Over time, these factors can place added stress on the feet and surrounding joints, making proper support a key part of symptom management.

Arch-support insoles are specifically designed to contour to the foot and provide targeted support beneath the arch. This helps reduce overpronation and promotes better alignment during walking and standing. These insoles can be especially beneficial for individuals experiencing pain or instability. Flat insoles, on the other hand, focus on cushioning and shock absorption without correcting arch position. While they may improve comfort in the short term, they do not address the underlying mechanics of flat feet.

In general, arch-support and flat insoles serve different purposes, but individuals with flat feet often benefit more from structured support. Selecting the right insole can improve comfort, reduce strain, and support overall foot health. If you have pain from flat feet and are considering insoles, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for guidance on the proper insoles to wear.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Monique Mitchell, DPM from Family Foot Centre. Our doctor 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 feel free to contact our office located in Garden Hills, Nassau, Bahamas . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot pain in older adults can come from several conditions that affect bones, joints, and soft tissue. A stress fracture is a small crack in a bone that may occur after a fall or repeated pressure, often causing swelling and sharp pain with movement. Plantar fasciitis is irritation of the thick band along the bottom of the foot, leading to heel pain that feels worse with the first steps in the morning. Additionally, arthritis involves joint inflammation that can cause stiffness, aching, and reduced mobility over time. Risk increases with age, balance changes, and long term wear on the feet. A podiatrist can identify the source of pain, confirm diagnoses with imaging, and create a treatment plan to improve comfort and mobility. If you have developed foot pain as you age, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer appropriate relief and treatment solutions.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Monique Mitchell, DPM from Family Foot Centre. Our doctor 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 our office located in Garden Hills, Nassau, Bahamas . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.