Items filtered by date: December 2022

Congenital foot problems are known as birth defects, and they occur before a baby is born. Clubfoot is defined as the foot and ankle being twisted out of their normal position. There are two categories of clubfoot, consisting of positional and true. The former happens from being in an awkward position in the uterus and can be corrected after birth by immobilizing the joints. Additionally, manipulation can be performed that can help to stretch the foot and ankle.  True clubfoot is an abnormally structured foot, which happens during the baby’s development.  This is often corrected by performing surgery, which can be complex. Metatarsus adductus is a congenital foot condition that is noticeable as the foot turns inward, and wearing corrective shoes or splints may accelerate correction. When the bottom of the foot is turned inward, it raises the arch, and this is indicative of metatarsus varus. This generally develops as a result of unusual positioning in the womb. If you would like additional information about congenital foot disorders, please consult a podiatrist who can provide you with the information you are seeking.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Afsha Naimat-Shahzad, DPM of Leander Foot & Ankle. 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 Leander, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Podiatrists are foot specialists that work in a variety of practice areas. Many podiatrists, after undergoing a rigorous training regimen, will open up their own practice. Others may work on a team or for another organization like the military. Podiatrists in the military play a very important role. Individuals in the military need healthy, vibrant feet to function well and properly perform their duties. When a serviceman or woman is having an issue with the health of their feet, a military podiatrist will help them identify and treat the problem. Military podiatrists can work in hospitals that are located both on land and also on ships, depending on the specific position. If you are interested in learning more about podiatrists, reach out to your local podiatrist today.

If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to contact Afsha Naimat-Shahzad, DPM from Leander Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

Someone would seek the care of a podiatrist if they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems, etc.

Podiatric Treatment

A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:

• Physical therapy
• Drugs
• Orthotic inserts or soles
• Surgery on lower extremity fractures

A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans are available.

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

There are various reasons why patients can develop heel pain. These can include uncomfortable foot conditions such as plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, or an Achilles tendon injury. Diabetic patients may be prone to developing heel pain, and bursitis may cause this pain to become worse. Mild relief may be found from heel pain by frequently elevating the affected foot, wearing shoes that fit correctly, and performing gentle exercises and stretches. Many patients choose to wear soft insoles in their shoes, in addition to wrapping an elastic bandage around the ankle which may provide extra support. Heel pain is often indicative of an existing medical condition, and it is strongly urged that you contact a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can accurately determine the cause and provide effective treatment options.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Afsha Naimat-Shahzad, DPM of Leander Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Leander, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Onychomycosis, which is the medical name for toenail fungus, can be unsightly. It is a fungus that affects the nail from underneath and can happen frequently from visiting places where it lives and thrives. These can include public swimming pools, locker rooms, and shower room floors. The fungus enters the body through small cracks in the skin and it is suggested to wear appropriate shoes while in these areas. Common symptoms that many patients experience with toenail fungus can include toenails that have become brittle and yellowed, and in severe cases, the nail may fall off. There are certain groups of people who may be prone to developing toenail fungus. These can consist of patients who have diabetes, poor circulation, or who are over sixty-five years of age. If you have symptoms of toenail fungus, it is advised that you visit a podiatrist who can extract a sample of the nail and helps determine a correct diagnosis. This is followed by applying the correct treatment methods which may include prescription medications.

For more information about treatment, contact Afsha Naimat-Shahzad, DPM of Leander Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

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

The tarsal tunnel is a structure within the foot that runs along the ankle bones and protects the posterior tibial nerve. When this nerve becomes squeezed and exposed to pressure, a condition known as tarsal tunnel syndrome (TTS) can develop where the nerve is compressed within a small space. Activities that can cause the tibial nerve to become compressed include spraining one’s ankle because such an injury can sometimes produce swelling around the nerve. Certain types of diseases, like diabetes, can sometimes cause TTS because diabetics can experience swelling of the feet, which may put pressure on the tibial nerve. Additionally, the presence of abnormally sized structures within the tarsal tunnel can also cause TTS. For example, large veins, cysts, bone spurs, or swollen tendons can put pressure on the tibial nerve. If you believe that you have TTS, contact a podiatrist today to schedule an appointment.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Afsha Naimat-Shahzad, DPM of Leander Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

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