Club foot, or talipes equinovarus, is a congenital foot and ankle deformity that affects some babies. This condition causes the foot to point downward at the ankle with the heel turned inward, making it challenging to put the sole of the foot flat on the ground. While the exact cause is unclear, both genetic factors and the position of the baby's foot in the womb may contribute to developing club foot. The Ponseti method has become the preferred treatment for talipes. This involves gentle manipulation of the foot into a corrected position, and using plaster casts for mobilization. This method has shown to have positive long-term results for most children, though a small number may still require surgery. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for successful correction, and adherence to wearing a post-treatment brace is essential to prevent a recurrence. If you have a child born with club foot, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can begin treatment as soon as possible.

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.

The foot condition that is known as Morton’s neuroma is painful. It is caused by wearing shoes that do not have enough room in the toe area and it affects the nerve between the third and fourth toes. High heels can fall into this category, and women can develop this condition if high heels are worn often and for long periods of time. Patients may feel this affected nerve can be malignant, however, it is considered to be a benign growth. The pain is often felt in the ball of the foot, and it may be difficult to walk. Temporary relief may be found when wider shoes with lower heels are worn. There may be swelling that accompanies this ailment, and it can be helpful to elevate the feet. In severe cases, some patients may choose surgery that can remove the nerve, and normal activities may be resumed. If you have foot pain from for Morton’s neuroma, it is strongly suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose and offer the correct treatment methods. 

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Afsha Naimat-Shahzad, DPM of Leander Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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 care needs.

Studies show that many workman compensation cases involve the feet. The various injuries targeting the feet and ankles can be classified into two groups. Mishaps that happen from punctures, lacerations, and crushing is one category, while the other group results from slips, trips, and falls. Common injuries that happen can be crushed or broken feet as a result of falling objects or moving vehicles, and punctures on the bottom of the feet caused by sharp metal or glass objects. Wearing appropriate shoes may help to prevent many of these types of injuries. It is beneficial for employers to educate their employees about foot injury prevention policies. This can include the types of shoes that should be worn for the specific job. If you would like more information about additional foot protection while working, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can provide you with helpful tips.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Afsha Naimat-Shahzad, DPM from Leander Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

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.

A hairline crack in a foot bone it's also known as a stress fracture. Frequently participating in running and jumping activities may cause stress fractures, which can happen from the repetitive force. A stress fracture can gradually occur, and many people choose to ignore the dull ache that accompanies this injury. When the pain becomes severe medical attention is often sought, and relief tactics are begun. Swelling may accompany a stress fracture, and walking can become difficult. A bone scan or an MRI can be performed to determine the extent of the fracture, as it may not be visible on an X-ray. Additionally, people who have osteoporosis or who consistently run on hard surfaces may be prone to getting a stress fracture. Treatment can begin by temporarily stopping the activity that caused the fracture, and elevating the affected foot may reduce the swelling. It may help to wear a protective boot that can provide the necessary stability as it heals. If you have a stress fracture of the foot, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose and treat this condition.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, 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.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

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 care needs.

It is crucial to purchase the right type of running shoes for the specific type of running that is desired. This is true of all types of runners, ranging from beginners to people who have run marathons. The most important factor to look for is a shoe that fits the foot perfectly. Each type of running shoe is designed with various features based on the activity level. Running shoes that have added motion control may benefit people who overpronate, which is when the foot rolls inward as it strikes the ground. These types of shoes tend to be stiff and can provide the necessary support as running is practiced. People who enjoy running marathons may benefit from wearing shoes that have extra cushioning, as the heel consistently hits the ground. There are many different types of running shoes, and it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can guide you on the best pair to purchase for your needs.

If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, 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.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.

• Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
• Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
• Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.

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.