February 2023

Moles typically appear as small, dark brown spots on the skin due to clusters of pigmented cells. They can be anywhere, including the soles of the feet. Moles can change over time or can vanish completely. While moles on the bottom of the feet can be uncomfortable, they are seldom serious, especially if they are small, one color, and are painless. If the mole becomes large, bumpy or has uneven edges, and is various shades of brown, medical attention should be sought. It is possible that a simple mole on the sole of the foot could be a melanoma. Signs that such a mole could be more serious is when it is of asymmetrical shape, has irregular borders, and varies in color.  If you have a mole on the bottom of your foot, even if you think it is non-cancerous, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an examination. It is always better to be safe than sorry.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. Kirk Sherris from Liberty Bay Foot & Ankle. 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 Poulsbo, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Falls are especially threatening to the elderly and can interfere greatly with their independence. Falls can cause hip fractures, cuts, and severe head and brain injuries. Statistics show that if a person falls once, their chances of falling again double. However, just because one ages, does not mean falls are inevitable. There are ways to prevent falls at any age. Checking one’s environment for fall hazards is critical. Slippery floors, unstable stairs, and ignored electrical cords are common causes of falls. It is recommended that clutter be kept down, tripping hazards repaired or removed, and grab bars and handrails be installed. Make sure the home and surrounding areas are well-lit. Wear shoes rather than socks, which are more apt to cause slips. Exercise can keep one strong and flexible and improve balance, thus making a person less prone to falls as well. If you are older or looking after someone who is, consult with a podiatrist on additional ways to prevent falls.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Dr. Kirk Sherris from Liberty Bay Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

Ankle injuries are certainly no fun for anybody who develops them. Whether it is a sprained ankle, a broken ankle, or a stress fracture, ankle injuries can significantly reduce mobility and cause the patient discomfort. However, many patients are interested in knowing the difference between a sprained ankle and a broken ankle. The answer is complicated. If the pain from the injury gets worse as time goes on, it is possible that you have a sprained ankle. Broken ankle pain is typically felt immediately. Additionally, if the pain is felt most seriously over a bone, then this might be a sign that what you are experiencing is a broken ankle and not a sprained ankle. If you have pain of any kind in the ankle area, please consider contacting a podiatrist for treatment today. 

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Kirk Sherris from Liberty Bay Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
•  Swelling around the area
•  Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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

Research has shown the foot condition that is known as clubfoot affects approximately one in 1,000 babies. Clubfoot develops in the womb, and it is speculated that the bones and ligaments develop improperly in utero. Additionally, studies have indicated that smoking while pregnant may increase the chances of delivering a baby who has clubfoot. This foot condition will force the infant’s foot to turn in at the ankle while pointing downward. An X-ray may be taken soon after birth to determine its severity, and it is generally followed by starting an effective treatment technique. The Ponseti method uses several plastic casts that can gently stretch and gradually turn the foot. The casts are replaced weekly, and are worn for approximately 12 weeks. This is followed by wearing a brace for several hours each day, which is done for approximately four years. When proper treatment is started as early as possible, the chances of walking and running normally may increase, and the child may lead a healthy life. If your child has clubfoot, it is strongly urged that you consult with a podiatrist who can guide you toward the correct treatment method for it.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Kirk Sherris of Liberty Bay Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.

What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?

A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.

What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?

Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:

• Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
• Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
• Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
• Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
• Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
• Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Treatment and Prevention

While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Poulsbo, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.