July 2023

When babies are born, their foot bones are not fully developed and act more like cartilage. The significant milestone of standing occurs when their feet, legs, hips, and core can support their weight, typically between nine to 18 months of age. Once they start walking, running and jumping will quickly follow. Although foot structure is usually developed by age two, complete development continues until the teen years. Given the crucial role of feet in standing and movement, parents need to care for their children's feet from an early age to avoid potential motor skill and ability issues in the future. Parents often wonder when it is appropriate to introduce shoes to their babies. Initially, shoes are unnecessary as they can hinder foot growth and movement. However, once walking is mastered, shoes become relevant. Keep in mind that rapid growth necessitates frequent changes in shoe size. As children get older, the speed of foot growth slows down. It is crucial to invest in well-fitting, durable shoes that support movement, balance, and coordination. Regularly checking shoe fit and promptly replacing them when outgrown is recommended by experts. On average, a child's shoes need to be changed every three to four months. If you have additional questions about your toddler’s feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide valuable information.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Dr. Blake Zobell of Utah. Our doctor 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 one of our offices located in Richfield and Ephraim, Utah . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Orthotics are medical devices that are worn inside the shoe. People who have foot pain or an abnormal foot structure may benefit from wearing orthotics, which may aid in completing daily activities. Custom-made orthotics may help patients who have diabetes, plantar fasciitis, or arch pain. These are designed and fitted by podiatrists and many benefits can be associated with wearing these types of orthotics. These can include improving the gait, or walking style, maintaining body alignment, and possibly relieving foot pain from arthritis. Wearing orthotics may reduce existing ankle pain, and it may be easier to walk. If you have foot pain for any reason, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can discuss the benefits of wearing custom-made orthotics and determine if this is the right choice for you.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Dr. Blake Zobell from Utah. 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 contact one of our offices located in Richfield and Ephraim, Utah . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

It typically takes about six weeks to heal from a broken toe, but the actual time frame depends on the severity of the fracture, the age of the person, and pre-existing medical conditions. Symptoms of a broken toe include pain, swelling, and bruising, and it can be difficult to walk. Additionally, a bone may protrude through the skin and the toe may look deformed. Treatments involve taping the broken toe to the toe next to it which provides stability, splinting the toe, or surgery may be necessary for more severe breaks. Resting and elevating the affected foot will help reduce swelling and pain. Simple treatment usually suffices in the healing of a broken toe, however, it is important to seek treatment if pain is severe or walking becomes increasingly difficult. If you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an examination and treatment recommendations.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Blake Zobell from Utah. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Richfield and Ephraim, Utah . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

If you have flat feet and also engage in physical activities that involve walking or running, finding the right shoes can be challenging. Flat feet is a condition where the arch has collapsed and the sole of the foot lies flat on the ground while standing. A normal foot arch allows the weight to be evenly transferred from the toes to the heels with each step. Patients who have flat feet are unable to do this, which can present problems in the feet, hips, and back, especially in active people. A number of shoes that have arch support may help to eliminate the symptoms of having flat feet, but these one-size-fits-all inserts may not be enough. Custom orthotics are another option that many patients consider. A podiatrist can examine the feet and create an insole that can best counter the effects of flat feet, and can fit well into any shoes that are purchased.  An impression of the feet will be taken, and an orthotic device can be constructed which can give provide adequate arch support. If you enjoy running and have flat feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist, who can help you with relief options.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. Blake Zobell from Utah. 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 one of our offices located in Richfield and Ephraim, Utah . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.