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Pachyonychia congenita, or PC, is a rare genetic condition that affects the nails, skin, and sometimes the mucous membranes. For the feet and ankles, it often leads to thickened nails, painful calluses, and blisters, especially on weight-bearing areas like the soles. These calluses and blisters can make walking and daily activities extremely uncomfortable, significantly impacting mobility and quality of life. The condition arises from mutations in specific keratin genes, causing the skin and nails to grow abnormally. Pressure from shoes and physical activity worsens symptoms, making proper foot care essential. Treatment focuses on reducing discomfort, such as filing thickened nails, softening calluses, and wearing custom footwear to minimize pressure. A podiatrist can play a vital role in managing PC. If you suffer from this affliction, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with this foot specialist who can offer specialized care and advice to improve comfort and mobility.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact one of our doctors of Kitsap Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

• Freiberg’s disease
• Kohler’s disease
• Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bremerton and Port Orchard, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
 

Stretching and strengthening the feet are essential components of effective foot care. Regular stretching improves flexibility, reduces tension, and helps prevent conditions like plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinitis, while strengthening exercises improve stability, balance, and endurance. These practices are especially beneficial for those with flat feet, high arches, or foot pain from activities like running, walking, or prolonged standing. A podiatrist plays an important role in guiding patients on safe and effective foot exercises tailored to their specific needs. They assess foot mechanics, identify areas of weakness or stiffness, and recommend personalized stretching and strengthening routines. Podiatrists may also use therapeutic tools like resistance bands and balance exercises to improve foot function. If you would like to improve the health of your feet, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for guidance on such exercises that can reduce pain, prevent injuries, and improve mobility.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with one of our doctors from Kitsap Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.

Great ways to stretch your feet:

• Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
• Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
• Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle

Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.

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

Measuring feet correctly using a Brannock device ensures that shoes fit properly, providing comfort and reducing the risk of foot problems. Begin by having the person stand upright with their weight evenly distributed on both feet. Place the Brannock device under the feet with the heel against the heel cup. Slide the arch gauge so that it rests just under the arch of the foot, ensuring it is snug but not tight. The length measurement is taken by sliding the heel piece to the back of the heel and reading the number on the scale. For width, use the sidebars to measure across the widest part of the foot, typically around the ball. Repeat the process for both feet, as one foot may be slightly larger than the other. These accurate measurements help in selecting the right shoe size for optimal fit and comfort. Wearing shoes that do not fit correctly can cause foot pain. If this has happened to you, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you treatment solutions and guide you on how to obtain the right shoe size.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact one of our doctors from Kitsap Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

• Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
• Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
• Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
• Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bremerton and Port Orchard, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.