Items filtered by date: October 2024

Webbed toes, or syndactyly, occur when two or more toes are fused together due to incomplete separation during fetal development. This condition is largely congenital but in some cases can form without a known cause. Webbing can vary from a simple fusion of skin and soft tissue to a more complex connection involving bones or joints. Webbed toes do not always affect function or mobility, but surgical correction may be considered if there is pain, limited movement, or for cosmetic reasons. The surgical approach depends on the severity and type of fusion involved. Recovery may include casting and bracing to promote proper healing. A podiatrist can evaluate the extent of the toe webbing and provide guidance on surgical options if needed. Early intervention can ensure better outcomes and reduce potential complications. If your child has a toe deformity, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Adriana Strimbu, DPM of Complete Foot & Ankle 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 office located in Hallandale Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, and gout are two distinct forms of arthritis that can cause significant foot pain. RA is an autoimmune condition that leads to swelling, stiffness, and inflammation in the joints, including those in the feet. This inflammation can result in joint damage if left untreated. Gout occurs when uric acid crystals accumulate in the joints, often causing sudden and intense pain, redness, and swelling. It typically causes painful flare ups in the big toe. While RA tends to cause more generalized joint discomfort, gout pain is more localized and can be severe during flare-ups. Both arthritic conditions can limit mobility and interfere with your daily activities. A podiatrist can evaluate your symptoms and suggest treatment that helps manage pain, reduce inflammation, and prevent further joint damage. Included are certain medications, targeted exercises and lifestyle or diet adjustments. If you have inflammatory pain in your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and the appropriate treatment.

When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly.  If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact Adriana Strimbu, DPM from Complete Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.

Systemic Diseases of the Feet

Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable.  Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.

Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.

Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.

Diabetes of the Feet

Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.

Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet. 

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

If you suffer from arthritis in your feet and ankles, incorporating gentle foot exercises into your routine can help alleviate symptoms like joint stiffness and pain. One effective stretch involves placing a book on the floor and standing on it with just the balls of your feet, keeping your heels on the ground. Lean forward while keeping your knees straight until you feel a stretch in your calves and hold it for 15 to 30 seconds. For ankle mobility, sit in a chair, lift one foot slightly off the ground, and trace the letters of the alphabet in the air. Repeat with the other foot. These exercises can improve flexibility and reduce discomfort. It is also beneficial to get personalized advice. For additional stretches and a tailored exercise plan, confer with a podiatrist. It is suggested that you schedule an appointment with this type of doctor to get professional guidance to keep your feet and ankles in optimal condition.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Adriana Strimbu, DPM from Complete Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

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