Some children are born with foot shapes that look different or affect how the foot functions as they grow. Common examples include calcaneovalgus, where the foot bends upward and outward, clubfoot, where the foot turns inward and downward, and metatarsus adductus, a condition in which the front part of the foot curves inward. Some problems are noticeable at birth, while others become clearer once a child begins standing or walking. Signs may include unusual foot positioning, difficulty with shoes, changes in walking, or discomfort, over time. A podiatrist can evaluate the condition, determine its severity, and recommend treatment based on the child's age and needs. Care may include monitoring, stretching, bracing, casting, or other supportive treatment to encourage healthy development. If your child has unusual foot positioning or walking concerns, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for expert guidance in managing the existing condition.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Lexington Foot and Ankle Center, PSC. 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 Harrodsburg, Frankfort, Georgetown, and Lexington, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Swollen feet and ankles can signal more serious problems than simple fluid retention. This condition, called edema, occurs when fluid collects in the soft tissues and causes visible puffiness. The skin may appear stretched, shiny, or feel tight. Some people notice discomfort or stiffness while walking. Swelling can affect one or both feet and may be linked to blood flow, veins, or internal organs like the heart or kidneys. It can also develop after an injury or infection, especially if inflammation occurs. When swelling appears suddenly or continues without a clear reason, it should not be ignored. A podiatrist can evaluate the feet, check circulation, and look for signs of underlying conditions using imaging and other tests. If you have unexplained swelling in the feet or ankles, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Lexington Foot and Ankle Center, PSC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Harrodsburg, Frankfort, Georgetown, and Lexington, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A diabetic foot ulcer is an open sore that develops on the foot due to poor circulation. It can be missed because of reduced sensation associated with diabetes. These ulcers often form from pressure, minor injuries, or irritation that goes unnoticed. Risk factors include high blood sugar levels, nerve damage, poor footwear, and limited blood flow. Antibiotics are not typically used for uninfected ulcers, as they are intended to treat bacterial infections rather than promote healing. Proper wound care, pressure relief, and monitoring are essential for recovery. A podiatrist can assess the ulcer, provide specialized treatment, and help prevent complications. Early care can protect foot health and reduce risks. If you have diabetes and have developed a foot wound or ulcer, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and management solutions.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with one of our podiatrists from Lexington Foot and Ankle Center, PSC. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Harrodsburg, Frankfort, Georgetown, and Lexington, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A foot stress fracture is a small crack in a bone caused by repetitive force rather than a single injury. It commonly occurs in the metatarsal bones of the forefoot, although it can also affect the heel or midfoot. Symptoms include localized pain that worsens with walking or activity, swelling, and tenderness. Causes include overuse, high-impact activities, or a sudden change in running surface or intensity. Abnormal foot structure can increase strain on specific bones. Risk factors include inadequate footwear, low bone density, and rapid increases in activity levels. A podiatrist can diagnose the injury, order imaging to confirm the diagnosis, and provide treatment and recovery guidance. If you have symptoms of a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions. 

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Lexington Foot and Ankle Center, PSC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Harrodsburg, Frankfort, Georgetown, and Lexington, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.