Items filtered by date: December 2023

Newborns are a marvel of nature, but they can also exhibit a range of physical characteristics, including some common foot deformities. One of the most frequently encountered conditions is metatarsus adductus, where a baby's feet curve inward. This condition often corrects itself over time, but in severe cases, medical intervention may be required. Another common newborn foot deformity is congenital vertical talus, characterized by an upward bending of the foot's arch. This condition typically necessitates early treatment to ensure proper foot development. Clubfoot is another condition where the baby's feet point inward and downward, making it challenging for the child to walk. Fortunately, early intervention with casting and corrective footwear can help normalize the foot position. Understanding these common newborn foot deformities is essential, as early diagnosis and treatment can make a significant difference in a child's long-term foot health and overall well-being. Podiatrists play a vital role in addressing these issues and guiding parents through the necessary steps for proper management and treatment. If your child has a congenital foot deformity, it is strongly suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can begin the correct treatment method.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Edward Fryman, DPM, FACFAOM of Seaford Foot Care Center. 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 Seaford, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Morton's neuroma, a nerve disorder affecting the ball of the foot, manifests through distinctive symptoms that can disrupt daily life. Characterized by a thickening of the tissue surrounding the nerves leading to the toes, this condition triggers a variety of discomforts. Individuals with Morton's neuroma commonly experience a sensation of having a pebble or fold in their shoe, coupled with pain or numbness in the toes. Pain typically intensifies during weight-bearing activities, such as walking or standing, and wearing tight or narrow shoes may exacerbate symptoms. The discomfort may radiate from the ball of the foot to the toes, and some individuals describe a burning or tingling sensation. As the condition progresses, affected individuals may notice an increase in the frequency and duration of symptoms. If you have pain between the toes, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat Morton’s neuroma.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Edward Fryman, DPM, FACFAOM of Seaford Foot Care Center. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, or CRPS, in the foot is a condition where foot pain becomes intense and persistent, often after an injury or surgery. It can make your foot extremely sensitive to touch, and even the slightest contact may cause severe pain. Additionally, your foot may change in appearance, becoming swollen or discolored. You may find it challenging to move your foot and use your muscles properly. CRPS in the foot can be diagnosed through a physical examination and tests such as X-rays or nerve tests. While it is a complex condition, there are treatments available. If you are experiencing unusual or severe foot pain, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to create a personalized plan to regain comfort and function in your foot, which may involve exercises and pain management techniques.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact Edward Fryman, DPM, FACFAOM of Seaford Foot Care Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

• Freiberg’s disease
• Kohler’s disease
• Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Seaford, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
 

Swelling in the feet and ankles, a common concern can be attributed to various factors rooted in the body's intricate balance. One primary cause is fluid retention, often associated with prolonged periods of standing or sitting, as gravity impedes the return of blood and fluids from the lower extremities. Injuries, such as sprains or fractures, can trigger swelling as the body responds to the trauma. Poor circulation, a result of conditions like peripheral artery disease, may contribute to fluid accumulation. Additionally, systemic issues such as heart, kidney, or liver diseases can manifest in swollen feet and ankles due to compromised fluid regulation. Hormonal changes, particularly in pregnancy, may also play a role. Lifestyle choices, including a diet high in sodium, can exacerbate fluid retention. If your feet and ankles have become swollen, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is and offer appropriate relief techniques.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Edward Fryman, DPM, FACFAOM of Seaford Foot Care Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Seaford, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.