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Clubfoot is a congenital condition in which a baby' s foot is twisted out of its normal position. The medical term, talipes, refers to this deformity, and one common form is talipes equinovarus, where the foot points downward and inward. In equinus, the foot is fixed in a downward position, while varus describes the inward turning of the heel. Causes may include genetic factors, abnormal fetal positioning, or neuromuscular conditions. Early diagnosis is essential to promote proper development and mobility. A podiatrist can evaluate the deformity, coordinate corrective treatment, and monitor progress throughout growth. If your child has been born with a clubfoot, it is strongly suggested that you include a podiatrist on your healthcare team to ensure healthy foot alignment and long-term function.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Jeffrey Parrett, DPM of Parrett 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 Waxahachie, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Cracked heels are a common foot condition that develops when the skin surrounding the heel becomes dry and thickened, unable to stretch normally. A primary cause is a lack of moisture which leads to reduced skin flexibility. Repetitive pressure and friction from walking, standing, or wearing ill-fitting footwear place added stress on the heel, causing the skin to split. The buildup of dead skin cells can further harden the area making cracking more likely. Certain medical conditions such as diabetes, eczema, and poor circulation may also weaken the skin and delay healing. A podiatrist can evaluate the underlying causes safely, remove hardened skin, recommend effective moisturizing treatments and manage related medical concerns. If you have developed cracked heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and 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 Jeffrey Parrett, DPM from Parrett 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 Waxahachie, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe when the joint becomes misaligned and pushes outward. This condition can cause pain, swelling, stiffness and difficulty wearing shoes. Bunion surgery may be needed when conservative care no longer relieves discomfort, or when the bunion interferes with walking and daily activities. It is performed by realigning the bone and joint to restore proper position and function. The benefits include relieving pain, improving foot stability, allowing more natural walking, and enhancing the appearance of the foot. A podiatrist can determine the right treatment approach and guide recovery. If you have bunion pain that limits your comfort or mobility, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can discuss whether bunion surgery is a viable option for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Jeffrey Parrett, DPM of Parrett Podiatry. 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 Waxahachie, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Swollen feet and ankles during pregnancy can develop when the body holds extra fluid as the growing uterus places pressure on blood vessels that support circulation in the lower legs. This shift can lead to puffiness around the toes, arches, and ankles, especially later in the day or after standing for long periods of time. Some women also notice their feet feel tight in shoes that lack adequate support, like flip-flops, which can add to discomfort. While gradual swelling is often linked to normal physical changes, a sudden increase in swelling in the feet or ankles can signal a problem that requires prompt evaluation. A podiatrist can assess foot structure, check circulation, and recommend safe options, including supportive footwear or orthotics. If you have excessive swelling in your feet and ankles, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Jeffrey Parrett, DPM from Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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