Items filtered by date: January 2025

Barefoot walking offers many advantages for children, particularly in helping them develop essential skills for movement and coordination. By walking without shoes, children strengthen the muscles and tendons in their feet, which supports their ability to walk properly as they grow. The natural movement of the feet also promotes better alignment of the body, which can lead to improved posture. In addition to the physical benefits, barefoot walking supports brain and nervous system development. The soles of the feet are rich in sensory receptors that help send signals to the brain, enhancing sensory processing and motor function. This sensory feedback helps children improve their balance, coordination, and spatial awareness, contributing to cognitive development. If you would like to learn about additional benefits from having your child walk barefoot, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can monitor your child’s foot health, and discuss whether this is a viable option for your lifestyle.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Dr. James D. McAlexander of Gig Harbor Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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

Plantar fasciitis affects the band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel bone to the toes. This is known as the plantar fascia, and can become strained and inflamed due to repetitive stress and is a leading cause of heel pain. People with plantar fasciitis frequently experience discomfort along the sole of the foot and heel, especially during the first steps in the morning or after prolonged sitting. This pain may worsen with activities like climbing stairs or standing for long periods. A podiatrist can examine your feet, assess your gait, and identify specific pain points. This foot doctor may use diagnostic tools to confirm plantar fasciitis and recommend stretches to improve flexibility in the plantar fascia and calves. Customized orthotics and supportive footwear may be prescribed to reduce strain and enhance mobility. If you have foot or heel pain linked to plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. James D. McAlexander from Gig Harbor Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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