Clubfoot is a congenital condition that causes a baby’s foot to turn inward or downward, affecting one or both feet. The heel and calf on the affected side are often smaller, and, in severe cases, the foot may appear twisted and almost upside down. Although clubfoot is not painful for babies, it prevents normal walking, if left untreated. Genetics appears to play a role in this condition, as risk increases when there is a family history. Other contributing factors include smoking during pregnancy or reduced amniotic fluid in the womb. A podiatrist can diagnose clubfoot soon after birth, and, in some cases, it may even be detected on prenatal imaging. Treatment often begins within weeks of delivery. It may involve gentle stretching with casting and a gradual repositioning of the foot. Surgery is considered when the deformity is severe. If your baby has a clubfoot deformity, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist, including this type of doctor on your healthcare team. 

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Gerard Skaziak, DPM of Lakeview Family Foot Care. 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 offices located in Guntersville and Albertville, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Living with diabetes requires careful attention to the health of the feet and ankles. Small cuts or blisters can progress into more serious wounds because circulation may be reduced and sensation often diminished. One type of wound seen in diabetic patients is a neuropathic ulcer, which develops when pressure and friction go unnoticed due to nerve damage. Ischemic ulcers may also appear when poor blood flow prevents proper healing. Infections are another concern, beginning as minor sores and quickly advancing without timely care. Even something as simple as a shoe rubbing against the skin can create an opening that lingers. Recognizing changes early is essential, yet many patients overlook small issues until they worsen. Professional evaluation offers the best chance for recovery. If you notice any wounds on your feet or ankles it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat foot wounds.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Gerard Skaziak, DPM from Lakeview Family Foot Care. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Guntersville and Albertville, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.