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Podiatry Services
Foot Care
Valley Podiatry offers services for general foot care, diabetic care, in-office surgery, sports medicine, orthotics and many other complications associated with foot health or injuries. With a team of experienced specialists, we are here to look after your foot care needs.
For more information on some common foot care problems listed below please click on the topic to see more details.
A bunion, sometimes referred to as Hallux Abducto Valgus or HAV, is the bump that develops along the big toe joint. Over time the long bone of the big toe starts to shift and protrude, which can also cause the big toe to go sideways and sometimes under the second toe.
Bunions form through many factors; however, foot structure and genetics are the most common. Unfortunately, when a bunion becomes painful, few non-surgical options help. Wider shoes and avoiding activities that cause the bunion to be painful can help. Custom orthotics can be used to alleviate pain and stop the progression of the bunion. If these solutions do not relieve the symptoms, then surgery may be recommended.
Over the years bunion surgery has continued to improve. Today, surgery is successful with less painful recovery times. Depending on the individual case, Dr. Kearl can recommend a personalized treatment that will correct the bunion and have you back on your feet in just a few weeks after surgery.
A hammer toe causes the toe to bend at the first joint, which is called the proximal interphalangeal joint. The problem usually begins with a muscle imbalance. When a muscle gets too weak, it can put pressure on the tendons of the toe. This can eventually cause the joint to become deformed, and unable to be straightened. Wearing ill-fitting or pointy-toed shoes is one of the most common causes of a hammer toe. High heels can also cause the condition, because the heel pushes the front of the foot down, forward, and against the shoe.
Certain risk factors increase the likelihood of developing hammer toe. People with unusually long toe bones, a history of toe injuries, and rheumatoid arthritis are more at risk of developing hammer toe.
Custom orthotics can be used to alleviate painful pressure caused by the hammer toe and slow its progression or lifting more. Corrective surgery for hammertoe is highly effective in correcting the angle of the toe and straightening the tendons. This procedure is a day surgery.
A neuroma is a painful condition, also referred to as a “pinched nerve” or a nerve tumor. It is a benign growth of nerve tissue frequently found between the third and fourth toes. It brings on pain, a burning sensation, tingling, or numbness between the toes and in the ball of the foot. Dr. Kearl can diagnose the cause of the neuroma, and help relieve pain through proper lifting of the foot, or other therapeutic treatment including injections, or excision by the use of orthotics.
Ingrown nails occur when the skin around the toenail begins to grow over the side of the nail. This can cause pain, and sometimes lead to infection. Depending on the severity of the condition, treatment can range from a professional trim, to in office surgery. The surgical procedure is done by numbing the toe, then trimming the nail away, down to the root. Dr. Kearl then uses a special technique and medicine to permanently remove the root of the nail, and prevent its regrowth.
Plantar warts are very common, and easily treatable by a Podiatrist. Dr. Kearl uses a specific method of debriding the callus, then using strong medication, to get rid of the wart. This procedure is not painful, and is highly effective. Usually it requires 2 visits over a month.
Painful callus and corns also require debridement, and can be alleviated through foot support and cushioning through the use of custom orthotics.
Sports Medicine
Dr. Kearl has a unique passion for aiding athletes in their sporting pursuits. Whether it be team or individual sports, Dr. Kearl wants to help you maximize your full potential. Improper biomechanics can cause abnormal pressure and strain on the feet, ankles, knees and hips, as well as your back, which can lead to injury. It can also cause inefficiency of the muscles firing, causing premature tiredness to the lower extremity.
Minor Surgery
Dr. Kearl is board certified through the College of Podiatric Surgeons of British Columbia. He has many years’ of experience in a variety of surgical procedures. All surgery is done using local anesthetic and completed at VPI offices.
Diabetic & Palliative Care
Diabetic foot care is a very important part of the health for individuals with Diabetes. Foot sensitivity and circulation decreases as the disease progresses. This can lead to sores under the foot and other foot pain. Thick nails need to be carefully trimmed by a professional to reduce injury and infection.
Custom Orthotics
Orthotics are an excellent way to handle numerous causes of foot, ankle, knee pain, hip pain and back pain. Correct alignment of the feet is essential to properly maintain a functioning and healthy foot.