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Congenital foot deformities are conditions present at birth that affect the structure and alignment of a child's feet. Metatarsus adductus involves inward bending of the front part of the foot. Clubfoot causes the foot to turn inward and downward. Calcaneovalgus results in an upward and outward positioning of the foot, while congenital vertical talus creates a rigid flatfoot with the sole facing outward. These deformities can impact walking, balance, and comfort, if not treated early. A podiatrist can diagnose these conditions through physical examination and imaging, then develop a treatment plan that may include stretching, casting, bracing, or surgical correction. If you notice unusual positioning or movement in your child's feet, it is strongly suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist to ensure early intervention and healthy development.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Itasca Foot & Ankle. 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 offices located in Itasca and Hoffman Estates, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A broken toe is commonly caused by trauma, such as stubbing the toe, dropping a heavy object, or sports injuries. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking or wearing shoes. In some cases, the toe may appear deformed. Risk factors include weak bones, high-impact activities, and poorly fitting footwear. If left untreated, a broken toe can lead to improper healing and long-term discomfort. A podiatrist can assess the severity of the fracture, provide appropriate treatment, prescribe protective footwear, and ensure proper healing. If you suspect a broken toe, it is suggested that you seek care from a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment..

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Itasca Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Itasca and Hoffman Estates, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Flat feet, also known as pes planus, occur when the arches of the feet are low or absent, causing the entire sole to touch the ground. This condition may be present from childhood or develop over time due to injury, aging, or medical conditions that affect the tendons and ligaments. Flat feet can lead to discomfort, swelling, fatigue in the feet and legs, and problems with walking or standing for long periods. Poor alignment may also contribute to knee, hip, or lower back pain. A podiatrist can assess your foot structure, gait, and symptoms. Treatment options include supportive footwear, custom orthotics, exercises, or further medical care to help relieve pain and improve foot function. If you have flat feet and are experiencing chronic discomfort or acute pain, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief and management tips.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Itasca Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Itasca and Hoffman Estates, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Reconstructive foot surgery is performed to restore the shape and function of the foot when bones, joints, or soft tissues have been damaged due to trauma, disease, or deformity. Common causes include serious injuries, birth defects like clubfoot, infections, or complications from diabetes and vascular disease. A podiatrist may recommend reconstructive foot surgery when the anatomy of the foot is severely affected and conservative options are no longer effective. Procedures may involve removal of dead or infected tissue, skin grafts, or the use of tissue flaps that include skin, muscle, or bone. Tendon transfers and lengthening may be used to improve foot movement. In some cases, loss of limb may be discussed when reconstruction is not appropriate. Not everyone is a candidate for this surgery, particularly those with widespread infection, severe circulation problems, or poor overall health. A podiatrist can help determine whether surgery is appropriate and explain the options. If you are a candidate for reconstructive foot surgery, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Itasca Foot & Ankle. Our doctors 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 offices located in Itasca and Hoffman Estates, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.