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Foot pain while walking is a common concern that can affect mobility, balance, and daily comfort. This type of pain may develop gradually or appear suddenly, depending on the underlying cause. The foot is a complex structure made up of bones, ligaments, tendons, and nerves, all of which must work together to support movement. When one part becomes irritated or injured, it can lead to discomfort with each step. Understanding the causes of walking related foot pain can help identify when evaluation and treatment may be necessary.

Several conditions are known to contribute to foot pain during walking. Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes. It involves inflammation of the thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot. It often leads to sharp heel pain, especially with the first steps in the morning. Morton neuroma affects the nerves between the toes, causing burning pain, tingling, or the sensation of stepping on a small object. Turf toe is a sprain of the joint at the base of the big toe. It is typically caused by repetitive push off movements or sudden force and results in pain and limited motion.

Risk factors for these conditions vary but often include overuse, wearing improper footwear, high-impact activities, and biomechanical imbalances. Individuals who spend long periods of time standing or walking on hard surfaces may be more prone to plantar fasciitis. Tight shoes or high heels can increase pressure on the forefoot, raising the risk of Morton neuroma. Turf toe is commonly seen in athletes who engage in sports that involve running or quick directional changes. Recognizing these risk factors can help guide prevention and early management strategies.

It is important to understand that foot pain while walking should not be ignored, as it may signal an underlying condition that requires attention. Early intervention can increase comfort and prevent further complications. If you have foot pain while walking, it is suggested you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Loren Hansen, DPM from Ankle & Foot Medical Center. Our doctor 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 office located in Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Babies do not always need shoes right away, but once they begin standing and walking, proper footwear becomes important for healthy development. Early shoes should be lightweight with flexible soles that allow natural movement. A correct fit is essential, as tight shoes can restrict growth and lead to discomfort or changes in foot shape. Non-skid soles help provide stability as babies learn balance and coordination. When shoes are too stiff or poorly fitted, they may interfere with normal walking patterns and cause strain on small joints. Parents may notice redness, fussiness, or uneven steps if there is a problem. A podiatrist can assess foot development, ensure proper fit, and recommend appropriate shoe types for each stage. If your child has foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment tips and guide you on what type of shoes to purchase.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Loren Hansen, DPM of Ankle & Foot Medical Center. 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 our office located in Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

An ankle sprain is an injury that occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle are stretched or torn. It often happens during a sudden twist, misstep, or awkward landing that forces the joint out of its normal position. This condition may appear with swelling, bruising, tenderness, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot. Some people feel instability or a popping sensation at the time of injury. While sprains can range from mild to severe, proper evaluation is important to rule out fractures or long-term damage. A podiatrist can assess the severity through a physical examination and imaging tests, then guide treatment to support healing and restore stability. Early care helps prevent chronic weakness or repeated injury.  If you have symptoms of an ankle sprain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Loren Hansen, DPM from Ankle & Foot Medical Center. Our doctor 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 office located in Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Cracked heels develop when the skin along the edge of the heel becomes dry and thick, causing it to split open. This often begins with dryness that leads to callus formation, which can eventually crack under pressure. Standing for long periods, walking barefoot, and carrying excess body weight can increase stress on the heel and worsen the problem. Other risk factors include aging skin, wearing poorly fitting shoes, and certain medical conditions that affect hydration or circulation. Cracked heels may start as mild roughness, but can progress to painful fissures that make walking uncomfortable. A podiatrist can remove thickened skin, treat deeper cracks, and address underlying causes to prevent recurrence. It is suggested that if you notice signs of cracked heels, you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Loren Hansen, DPM from Ankle & Foot Medical Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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

Toenail fungus affects the nail and surrounding tissue, often beginning subtly and then progressing. In the early stage, the nail may show mild discoloration or small white or yellow spots. As it moves into a moderate stage, the nail can become thicker, brittle, and more noticeably discolored. In advanced stages, the nail may crumble, separate from the nail bed, and cause discomfort. Causes include fungal exposure in warm, moist environments. Risk factors include aging, diabetes, and poor circulation. Without treatment, the condition may worsen. A podiatrist can diagnose the infection and provide effective treatment options. If you notice nail changes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat toenail fungus, which may include prescribed medication. 

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Loren Hansen, DPM of Ankle & Foot Medical Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.