Clubfoot is a congenital condition where a baby’s foot or feet are twisted inward and downward, making them appear abnormal in shape and position. The exact cause of clubfoot is not fully understood, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. It may occur when the tendons in the foot are too tight or shortened, causing the foot to rotate. In some cases, it can be associated with other conditions such as spina bifida or cerebral palsy. Symptoms of clubfoot include the foot appearing rotated, with the sole facing inward and the heel pointing downward. The affected foot may be smaller than normal, and the calf muscles may appear underdeveloped. If your child has been born with clubfoot, it is strongly suggested that you include a podiatrist on your healthcare team for effective treatment results.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Priyanka Mude, DPM of North Canton 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 North Canton, Ohio . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Cracked heels are a common foot condition that can lead to discomfort and even pain if left untreated. They often develop when the skin surrounding the heels becomes dry and thick, leading to splits or fissures. Prolonged standing on hard surfaces can put extra pressure on the feet, causing the skin to expand and crack. As people age, their skin loses moisture and elasticity, making it more prone to dryness. Wearing open-heeled shoes or sandals exposes the heels to air and friction, which can further dry out the skin. Obesity can also contribute to cracked heels, as the increased weight places added pressure on the heel area. Cracked heels can be uncomfortable, and may cause difficulty in completing daily activities. If you have this condition, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Priyanka Mude, DPM from North Canton Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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

Instinct tells us to land on our feet during a fall, but that does not always mean it is safe. The force of impact can send shockwaves through the feet, ankles, and legs, leading to serious injuries like fractures, sprains, and even long-term joint damage. Heel fractures, known as calcaneal fractures, are particularly common when landing from a height. The intense pressure can also damage the metatarsals or overstretch the Achilles tendon. Even if bones remain intact, the sudden impact can cause soft tissue injuries that lead to chronic pain or instability. Proper footwear, balance training, and strengthening exercises can help reduce fall risks. If you do fall, rolling or distributing impact across the body can lessen injury severity. When in doubt, it is suggested you get checked by a podiatrist, as what seems like a minor ache can turn into a long-term mobility issue.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Priyanka Mude, DPM from North Canton Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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