Items filtered by date: November 2024

Idiopathic congenital clubfoot is a birth defect in which a baby is born with one or both feet twisted inward and downward. The term idiopathic means that the exact cause of the condition is unknown, although it is believed to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. The affected foot or feet may appear deformed, with the heel pointing downward and the toes turning inward, making it difficult for the child to stand or walk normally. Clubfoot can occur in isolation or as part of a broader condition, but in most cases, it does not affect other parts of the body. Early treatment is essential and usually involves methods, such as the Ponseti technique, which includes gentle manipulation and casting of the foot to gradually correct the deformity. In some cases, surgery may be required if other treatments do not work. If your child has been born with clubfoot, it is strongly suggested that a podiatrist is included on the healthcare team who can effectively monitor this condition.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Barbara J. Aung, DPM of Aung Foot Health Clinic . 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 Tuscon, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Congenital Foot Problems
Tuesday, 19 November 2024 00:00

Causes and Prevention Tips for Cracked Heels

Cracked heels are a common foot issue that can be both uncomfortable and unsightly. Several factors contribute to this condition, including dry skin, prolonged standing, and exposure to harsh environmental conditions. Wearing open-back shoes can accelerate the problem by failing to provide adequate support. To prevent cracked heels, it is essential to keep the feet well-hydrated by using thick moisturizers regularly, especially after bathing. Wearing well-fitting, supportive footwear can reduce stress on the heels and prevent dryness. Additionally, exfoliating the feet weekly can help remove dead skin buildup, promoting healthier skin. Maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals also supports skin health. Cracked heels can be painful and unsightly, and may cause difficulty completing daily tasks. If you have this condition, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can prescribe medication as part of a successful treatment plan.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Barbara J. Aung, DPM from Aung Foot Health Clinic . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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

Read more about Solutions for Cracked Heels
Tuesday, 12 November 2024 00:00

Dangers of Peripheral Artery Disease

Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, occurs when blood flow to the feet and legs is restricted due to narrowed arteries. This condition can significantly impact the health of your feet. One of the primary symptoms of peripheral artery disease is muscle cramping or pain during physical activity, but it often affects the feet in more critical ways. People with PAD may notice that cuts, scrapes, or blisters on their feet are slow to heal. In fact, they may not heal at all. Prolonged inadequate blood flow can result in tissue damage, resulting in ulcers or even gangrene. Poor circulation caused by PAD also can lead to a decreased skin temperature in the feet, making one foot feel much colder than the other. Other visible signs include poor nail growth or the loss of hair on the toes and lower legs. A podiatrist can help to manage PAD by monitoring blood circulation in the feet and implementing treatment that enhances blood flow and promotes healing. If you have foot problems caused by peripheral artery disease, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with Barbara J. Aung, DPM from Aung Foot Health Clinic . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

  • Claudication (leg pain from walking)
  • Numbness in legs
  • Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
  • Paleness of the skin
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
  • Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

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

Read more about Peripheral Artery Disease
Friday, 08 November 2024 00:00

Are You Suffering From Ingrown Toenails?

If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!

Tuesday, 05 November 2024 00:00

Exploring Surgery for Flat Feet

Flat feet, or pes planus, occur when the arches of the feet are flattened, causing the entire sole to make contact with the ground. This can result in pain and cause difficulties with walking. In some cases, people with flat feet may benefit from surgical correction. Flat foot reconstruction aims to reshape the foot by repairing or realigning the bones, tendons, and ligaments to support the arch. The specific technique used can vary, based on such factors as the patient’s anatomy and the severity of their symptoms. While flatfoot surgery often results in improved mobility and relief from pain, the recovery process can take several months and may require the use of a cast or orthopedic boot. A podiatrist can determine if non-surgical treatments are still viable or if surgery is the best course of action. If you have foot problems related to flat feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Barbara J. Aung, DPM of Aung Foot Health Clinic . Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

  • Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
  • Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
  • Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

  • Bunionectomy for painful bunions
  • Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
  • Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Read more about Foot Surgery

Connect With Us