February 2025

Long walks can lead to foot pain due to overuse, wearing improper footwear, or lack of preparation. Common issues include blisters from friction, arch pain from inadequate support, and heel pain caused by plantar fasciitis. Without proper care, these minor discomforts can turn into chronic problems. To prevent pain, wear supportive, well-fitted shoes designed for walking. Use moisture-wicking socks to reduce blisters and consider orthotic insoles for added cushioning and arch support. Stretch your feet and calves before and after walking to maintain flexibility and circulation. If pain persists or worsens, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can identify underlying issues, such as misalignment or overpronation, and recommend tailored solutions like custom orthotics or specific treatments.

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.

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis that occurs when uric acid builds up in the bloodstream, leading to the formation of sharp crystals in the joints. This condition is often triggered by a high intake of purine-rich foods, alcohol consumption, dehydration, or certain medications. Gout most commonly affects the feet, particularly the big toe, causing sudden and intense pain, redness, and swelling. The affected joint may become hot to the touch, and movement may be severely limited. The pain from gout attacks can be debilitating, often occurring at night and lasting for several days. While the big toe is most commonly affected, other joints such as the ankles and knees can also be involved. Managing gout typically involves medications to reduce inflammation and pain, as well as lifestyle changes like diet modifications and staying hydrated to prevent future flare-ups. If you have had one or more gout attacks, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief and treatment tips.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Kirk Sherris from Liberty Bay Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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 sprains occur when the ligaments surrounding the ankle are stretched or torn. They can range from mild to severe, depending on the extent of the damage. There are three main grades of ankle sprains. A Grade 1 sprain involves slight stretching of the ligaments, often causing mild pain and swelling. A Grade 2 sprain indicates a partial tear, resulting in moderate pain, swelling, and difficulty walking. A Grade 3 sprain is the most severe, where the ligament is completely torn, leading to significant pain, swelling, and instability. Several risk factors can increase the likelihood of an ankle sprain, including engaging in sports that involve jumping, running, or sudden changes in direction. Wearing improper footwear and having weak or imbalanced muscles are other risk factors. Symptoms of an ankle sprain typically include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving the ankle. If you have ankle pain and feel you may have sprained your ankle, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, 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.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

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

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further 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.

As people age, the risk of falling increases due to a variety of factors that affect balance, strength, and coordination. Seniors may experience muscle weakness, reduced flexibility, and slower reaction times, all of which contribute to a higher chance of falling. Additionally, certain medications can cause dizziness or drowsiness, further increasing the risk. To help prevent falls, seniors should regularly review their medications with a healthcare provider to ensure they are not contributing to balance problems. It is also important to discuss any previous falls, as this information can help identify underlying causes and take preventive measures. Evaluating health conditions, such as vision problems or neurological issues, is another key step in reducing the risk of falls. Staying active by engaging in exercises that improve strength, balance, and flexibility can help seniors maintain better mobility and confidence in their daily activities, ultimately lowering the risk of falling. If you have endured a foot or ankle injury from falling, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and offer additional fall prevention tips.

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.