Clubfoot is a congenital condition where one or both feet are twisted out of their normal position, making walking difficult, if left untreated. It may have a possible genetic component and can occur alongside other medical conditions. Symptoms include an inward turning of the foot, stiffness, and abnormal foot shape present at birth. Types of clubfoot include idiopathic, which occurs without other health issues, neurogenic, related to nerve disorders, and syndromic, associated with genetic syndromes. A podiatrist can work with specialists to create a treatment plan involving stretching, casting, bracing, or surgery, when necessary. If your child has been born with clubfoot, it is strongly suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can be included on the healthcare team.
Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact David Reynolds, DPM of First Podiatry. 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 Evansville, IN. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Sever’s disease is a common cause of heel pain in children and adolescents, occurring when the growth plate in the heel becomes inflamed. It is often caused by repetitive stress from activities like running or jumping, especially during growth spurts. Risk factors include participation in high-impact sports, wearing unsupportive footwear, flat feet, or having tight calf muscles. Symptoms include heel pain that worsens with activity, swelling, and tenderness at the back of the foot. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition, recommend rest, stretching exercises, proper footwear, and supportive devices to relieve pain and promote healing. If your child is experiencing persistent heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can provide effective relief tips.
Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see David Reynolds, DPM from First Podiatry. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.
Sever’s Disease
Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.
Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.
Symptoms
Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.
Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Evansville, IN. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
During pregnancy, foot problems often arise due to weight gain, fluid retention, and hormonal changes. The hormone relaxin, which loosens joints to prepare for childbirth, also affects the feet by weakening ligaments and flattening arches. This can lead to fallen arches, overpronation, and heel or arch pain. As the body’s weight increases, more pressure is placed on the feet, sometimes resulting in plantar fasciitis or general foot fatigue. Swelling in the feet and ankles, particularly in the later months, is also common due to increased blood volume and fluid accumulation. Toenail growth may change, and swelling can contribute to the development of painful ingrown toenails. These issues may make walking or standing uncomfortable and increase the risk of balance problems. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, provide custom orthotics, and offer safe and effective treatment options to address pain or pressure. If you have foot problems during pregnancy, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment options.
Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with David Reynolds, DPM from First Podiatry. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?
One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward. This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.
Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages.
How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?
Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
Wear shoes with good arch support
Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
Elevate feet if you experience swelling
Massage your feet
Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Evansville, IN. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
