Items filtered by date: August 2024

Clubfoot, or talipes, is a congenital condition where a newborn's foot is twisted out of shape or position, typically pointing downward and inward. It occurs in about one in 1,000 births, making it a relatively common birth defect. The exact cause is unknown, though it may be linked to genetic factors and occurs more frequently in boys than girls. Clubfoot can affect one or both feet, and while it does not cause pain in infants, if left untreated, it can lead to difficulties in walking and discomfort later in life. Diagnosis is usually made at birth through a physical examination, although it can sometimes be detected during a prenatal ultrasound. Treatment should begin shortly after birth and often involves using the Ponseti method, which includes gentle manipulation and casting of the foot, followed by bracing to maintain the correction. In some cases, surgery may be required. If your child is born with clubfoot, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for early and appropriate treatment, as most children born with clubfoot can lead active, normal lives.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Family Foot Health Center. Our doctors 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 Rogers and Berryville, AR . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Laser therapy is emerging as a promising treatment for diabetic neuropathy, a condition caused by nerve damage that can lead to pain, tingling, and numbness, especially in the feet. Laser therapy involves using light to stimulate the damaged nerve cells, which promotes regeneration and potentially alleviates symptoms. Some studies have shown positive results, particularly with deep-tissue laser therapy. However, there remains debate over its overall effectiveness due to variations in research methods and laser types. Deep-tissue lasers, with their ability to penetrate further into the body, have been noted for their potential in reducing pain for diabetic neuropathy patients. However, more extensive research is needed to establish definitive guidelines for laser therapy's application in neuropathy. A podiatrist can evaluate individual cases and recommend the most suitable laser treatment options. They can also guide patients on the number of sessions required and discuss cost considerations, which can vary based on treatment specifics. If you have foot problems caused by diabetic neuropathy, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to find out if laser therapy is right for you.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with one of our podiatrists from Family Foot Health Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Rogers and Berryville, AR . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gout, a form of arthritis caused by excess uric acid in the body, results in sudden and severe symptoms such as pain, redness, and swelling, often affecting the big toe. These gout symptoms can emerge rapidly and typically occur at night or early morning. Without treatment, gout can progress through three stages. Asymptomatic hyperuricemia is where uric acid crystals begin forming. Acute intermittent gout causes periodic symptoms. Chronic tophaceous gout happens when uric acid crystals accumulate, causing persistent inflammation and long-term complications like joint deformity and restricted movement. Gout attacks can vary in intensity and if left unmanaged, recurrent episodes can lead to severe complications. To prevent these outcomes and improve your quality of life, timely diagnosis and treatment are essential. If you are experiencing symptoms of gout, it is suggested that you add a podiatrist to your medical team to help manage this condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Family Foot Health Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Rogers and Berryville, AR . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot blisters are caused by friction, excessive moisture, or from wearing ill-fitting shoes. While it may be tempting to pop them, it is best to let blisters heal naturally to prevent infection. To care for blisters at home, start by cleaning the area with mild soap and water. Apply an antiseptic and cover the blister with a sterile bandage or blister pad to protect it from further irritation. Keeping the blister dry is important for faster healing. Wear moisture-wicking socks and properly fitting shoes to reduce friction. If the blister is painful, cushion it with moleskin or a soft bandage to alleviate pressure. Avoid activities that exacerbate the blister, and allow your feet to rest and recover. If blisters do not heal, recur frequently, or cause significant pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide professional care and address underlying issues.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of Family Foot Health Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Rogers and Berryville, AR . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.