Items filtered by date: December 2023

Congenital foot deformities, occurring at birth, present a spectrum of conditions that impact the structure and function of the feet. One notable congenital deformity is clubfoot, a condition where the foot is twisted inward and downward. This malformation results from a combination of genetic and environmental factors influencing the development of tendons, muscles, and bones in the foot during pregnancy. In clubfoot, the Achilles tendon is often shorter than usual, exacerbating the inward rotation of the foot. While the exact cause remains elusive, early identification and intervention are pivotal. Advances in medical understanding and technology continue to enhance treatment outcomes, providing hope for those born with congenital foot deformities. Those born with clubfoot can lead active and fulfilling lives with proper care and intervention. If your child has been born with clubfoot, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can immediately begin appropriate treatment.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Warren Levy, DPM of Armitage Podiatry Center. 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 Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

While it is common knowledge that mobility declines as an individual ages, not enough attention is paid to the role of the feet in the aging process and movement. The foot is a flexible system that can adjust and help one move better depending on what is being done. With a better understanding of how the feet work in older individuals, proper treatments and exercises can be dispensed to improve movement and the maintenance of activity. If you are elderly and have mobility issues, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can access your feet and gait to allow for an individualized plan to help you with mobility.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Warren Levy, DPM from Armitage Podiatry Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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

Blisters, characterized by fluid-filled bubbles on the skin, often arise from friction or injuries like burns, spider bites, or pinching, and are occasionally due to infections. In most instances, managing blisters at home is feasible. Small, intact blisters, even blood blisters, generally heal naturally. Foot blisters in children should not be disturbed if unbroken. The exception is covering it with a bandage or moleskin pad and having the child avoid activities that provoke the blister formation. If your child has a blister that ruptures, persists, causes pain, or appears infected, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for proper care.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Warren Levy, DPM of Armitage Podiatry Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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

Gout, a form of arthritis, manifests when urate crystals accumulate in the joints, causing intense pain and inflammation. While anyone can develop gout, certain factors increase susceptibility. Men, particularly those over 40 years old, are more prone, as are postmenopausal women. A family history of gout raises the risk, indicating a genetic predisposition. Lifestyle choices also play a pivotal role, and a diet rich in purines found in red meat, seafood, and alcohol can contribute to elevated uric acid levels. Obesity and medical conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes amplify the likelihood of gout. Dehydration and certain medications may also tip the balance towards crystal formation in joints. The intricacies of gout's causes underscore the importance of proactive measures, including dietary adjustments, hydration, and lifestyle modifications. By understanding the factors and vulnerabilities associated with gout, individuals can take informed steps towards prevention and better management of this often painful condition. If you have developed gout, it is strongly suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can guide you toward effective management and pain relief techniques. 

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Warren Levy, DPM from Armitage Podiatry Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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