Times Colonist

Foot pain is not something you have to live with

- DR. KENT BUTLER, DPM, BSC

A fter graduating from high school in his hometown of Kamloops, Dr. Butler studied sciences at the University of Calgary for three years. He took a four-year program at the California College of Podiatry Medicine and graduated with honours.

Butler received his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree. Next, he completed a one-year surgical residency. His training continued in biomechani­cs with a one-year fellowship at Pacific Coast Hospital in San Francisco. This residency was the only biomechani­cs program offered in North America, and the education received has been an invaluable asset to his practice.

After these nine years of post secondary education, Butler returned to Canada where he has practiced podiatry for 27 years in Victoria.

The focus of Dr. Butler’s practice is the conservati­ve care of foot and leg pathologie­s. Watching patients walk and analyzing how their feet and legs function is one of the most important examinatio­ns he performs. Dr. Butler is the only podiatrist who handcrafts every step of each custom orthotic himself. Maintainin­g control over orthotic constructi­on helps facilitate better treatment outcomes.

Foot pain is not something you have to live with. Most foot problems can be treated successful­ly. Happy feet allow you to enjoy an active and healthier life. BUNIONS

Bunions are a common foot problem, and are often passed on from one generation to the next. The term ‘bunion’ refers to the bone enlargemen­t of the big toe joint.

The process occurring in the big toe joint is wear and tear arthritis (also known as degenerati­ve joint disease, or osteoarthr­itis). Every step taken can contribute to the progressiv­e breakdown of the big toe joint.

Big toe joint arthritis can often lead to joint pain, shoe gear irritation and toes over-lapping. We commonly associate bunions with older people, but they often can be seen in children. Orthotics can be very successful in treating bunions. Using the right shoes and orthotics can slow down and stop bunions from worsening as well as eliminate joint pain. Dr. Butler’s office is located at 3980

Shelbourne St. Phone: 250-472-0212.

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