Items filtered by date: October 2025

Orthotics are custom-made shoe inserts designed to support and align the feet, improving comfort and overall function. They help correct abnormal walking patterns and relieve pressure caused by plantar fasciitis, flat feet, bunions, and arthritis. By enhancing foot and ankle stability, orthotics can reduce pain, prevent injuries, and improve posture and balance. A podiatrist can perform a detailed evaluation to determine the best type of orthotic for your specific needs, ensuring a precise fit and maximum benefit. Whether for daily wear or athletic activity, orthotics can make a significant difference. If you have a specific foot or ankle condition, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for a personalized assessment and expert guidance to see if orthotics are right for you.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact one of our podiatrists from Ankle and Foot Centers of Missouri, P.C.. Our doctors 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 offices located in Gladstone, MO, Albany, MO, Leavenworth, KS, Hiawatha, KS, and Liberty, MO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle are stretched or torn, usually due to twisting or rolling the foot. Ankle sprains are grouped into grades, depending on the severity. Grade 1 symptoms include mild pain, and generally no bruising. A grade 2 sprain consists of moderate pain and joint instability. Additionally, loss of function and range of motion can accompany a grade 3 sprain. Temporary relief can be found by resting the ankle, applying compression with an elastic bandage, and elevating it to reduce swelling. A podiatrist can evaluate the injury, recommend targeted exercises, and provide support to prevent future sprains. If you have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can determine the severity and provide effective treatment solutions.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Ankle and Foot Centers of Missouri, P.C.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Gladstone, MO, Albany, MO, Leavenworth, KS, Hiawatha, KS, and Liberty, MO . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Pain on the outer side of the foot, known as lateral foot pain, can result from a variety of conditions that affect the bones, tendons, and ligaments in this area. A common cause of lateral foot pain is peroneal tendonitis. This develops where the tendons running along the ankle and foot become inflamed due to overuse or injury. Ankle sprains are another frequent source, often occurring when the ankle twists inward. This action can cause tearing of the supporting ligaments and leads to swelling and instability. Fractures of the fifth metatarsal, sometimes called dancer’s fractures or Jones fractures, may arise from repetitive stress or acute trauma. A podiatrist can evaluate the exact cause of lateral foot pain, provide diagnostic imaging to confirm, and recommend the most effective treatment. If the outer side of your foot hurts, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Ankle and Foot Centers of Missouri, P.C.. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Gladstone, MO, Albany, MO, Leavenworth, KS, Hiawatha, KS, and Liberty, MO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gout is a form of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, most commonly affecting the big toe. It leads to sudden attacks of severe pain, redness, swelling, and tenderness. Causes include high levels of uric acid in the blood, often linked to diet and metabolism. Risk factors involve family history, obesity, kidney disease, and excessive alcohol intake. Foods to avoid include red meat, shellfish, organ meats, and sugary drinks, while foods that help include cherries, whole grains, vegetables, and low fat dairy. A podiatrist can help by diagnosing gout, managing flare ups, and offering guidance for prevention. If you have symptoms of gout, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this painful condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Ankle and Foot Centers of Missouri, P.C.. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Gladstone, MO, Albany, MO, Leavenworth, KS, Hiawatha, KS, and Liberty, MO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.