Syndactyly is a congenital condition in which two or more toes are joined together at birth by skin or soft tissue, creating a webbed appearance that varies in extent from person to person. In many individuals it causes no discomfort and does not interfere with walking, but some may notice pressure where the toes meet or difficulty finding shoes that feel comfortable. In certain cases, the joined toes can influence balance or the way weight is distributed across the foot during movement. Management depends on how the toes function and whether the connection limits mobility or creates irritation. A podiatrist can assess the structure of the foot, determine the type of syndactyly present, and discuss whether monitoring, footwear guidance, or surgery may be helpful. Once this problem is noticed, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Advanced Foot Specialists. 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 Rockwall, Greenville, Dallas, Sachse, and Lewisville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A high ankle sprain is an injury to the ligaments that connect the lower leg bones above the ankle joint, and help stabilize the ankle during movement. These injuries are described as mild, moderate, or severe based on ligament damage and joint stability. High ankle sprains often occur from sudden twisting of the leg, especially during sports or uneven footing. Common symptoms include deep ankle pain, tenderness, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight, which may worsen with walking or rotation. Risk factors include athletic activity, prior ankle injury, wearing poorly fitting footwear, and high-impact movements. A podiatrist can provide an accurate diagnosis, imaging when needed, and a personalized treatment plan that may include bracing therapy or advanced care. If you have ankle pain or feel you may have sprained your ankle, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide effective relief and treatment solutions. 

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Rockwall, Greenville, Dallas, Sachse, and Lewisville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Morton’s neuroma is a painful condition caused by thickening of the nerve tissue between the toes, most often between the third and fourth toes. It develops when the nerve is irritated or compressed, leading to burning pain, numbness, or the feeling of a pebble in the shoe. Causes include repeated pressure on the forefoot, tight shoes, and activities that involve high impact. Risk factors include flat feet, high arches, bunions, and hammertoes, which can all change how weight is distributed across the foot. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition, relieve pressure on the nerve, recommend proper footwear, and provide targeted treatment to reduce symptoms. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. 

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Advanced Foot Specialists. Our doctors 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 offices located in Rockwall, Greenville, Dallas, Sachse, and Lewisville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Turf toe is a painful sprain of the joint at the base of the big toe, often caused by a sudden push off, quick change of direction, or intense pressure on the front of the foot. The injury stretches or tears the soft tissues surrounding the joint, leading to swelling, stiffness, and difficulty bending the toe. Some people notice bruising or a sharp ache when pushing off when walking or during sports. Early care focuses on reducing irritation by limiting activities that stress the toe, using supportive footwear, and protecting the joint from further bending. Elevation can ease discomfort, while taping or stiff soled shoes can help control motion as the area heals. Recovery time varies, depending on how severe the injury is and how quickly it is addressed. A podiatrist can confirm the diagnosis, monitor healing, and recommend specific treatments. If your toe pain persists or worsens after injury, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Advanced Foot Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Rockwall, Greenville, Dallas, Sachse, and Lewisville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.