Items filtered by date: November 2023

Skew foot, also known as serpentine foot, is a complex foot deformity often identified at birth or in childhood. It is characterized by a combination of abnormalities that affect the alignment and function of the foot. This condition involves a combination of forefoot abduction, where the front part of the foot turns outward, and hindfoot varus, where the heel turns inward. These alterations lead to a zigzag appearance of the foot, hence the name skew foot. Individuals with skew foot may experience difficulties in walking, balance, and may have discomfort or pain due to the abnormal pressure distribution on the foot. Treatment options vary depending on the severity and underlying cause of the condition. Conservative management includes wearing orthotic devices and special footwear to support and realign the foot. In more severe cases, surgical intervention may be required to correct the deformity and improve function. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential in preventing progression and maintaining mobility and quality of life. If your child has what appears to be skew foot, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist as quickly as possible for treatment.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Michael Bess, DPM of Florida. Our podiatrist 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 West Palm Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis, a common ailment that affects the feet, reveals itself as an inflammation of the plantar fascia, which is the band of tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes. This vital ligament plays a pivotal role in supporting the arch of the foot and absorbing shock during movement. The onset of plantar fasciitis often stems from repetitive stress or overuse, manifesting in micro-tears that lead to inflammation and pain. Contributing factors can include excessive standing, walking, or running, especially on hard surfaces, as well as wearing ill-fitting footwear that fails to provide adequate support. Tight calf muscles and abnormal foot mechanics can also contribute to the strain on the plantar fascia. Understanding the definition and causes of plantar fasciitis enables individuals to adopt preventive measures. If you have developed plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can help you with effective treatment methods, in addition to providing you with relief techniques for this painful condition.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Michael Bess, DPM  from Florida. Our podiatrist can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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

Stress fractures, those tiny cracks in the bones of the feet, are a common concern for athletes, dancers, and anyone who spends a significant amount of time on their feet. These fractures are usually a result of repetitive stress and overuse, rather than sudden trauma. One primary cause of stress fractures is overexertion, often seen in athletes who increase their training intensity too quickly. Wearing Improper footwear or a sudden change in physical activity can also put undue stress on the bones. Inadequate nutrition and underlying conditions such as osteoporosis may weaken bones, making them more susceptible to fractures. Symptoms of a stress fracture typically include localized pain, swelling, and tenderness in the affected area. The pain usually worsens with activity and eases with rest. Left untreated, stress fractures can progress to chronic pain and complications, so early intervention is essential. Understanding the causes and recognizing these symptoms allows for prompt diagnosis and proper care, reducing the risk of more severe injuries and ensuring a quicker return to an active, pain-free lifestyle. If you have developed a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can effectively treat this condition.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Michael Bess, DPM from Florida. Our podiatrist 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 feel free to contact our office located in West Palm Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Corns on the feet are most commonly caused by excessive pressure on the toe or bottom of the foot from wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes. When painful corns on your feet become unbearable and conservative treatments no longer work, surgery is a viable option. Corns, known medically as heloma, can become excruciating, making even the simplest daily activities a painful ordeal. The surgical procedure involves making a small incision over the affected toe to access the corn. The foot doctor removes the corn, repairs any tendon that may be involved, and closes the incision. Various numbing options, including general anesthesia, a spinal block, or local anesthesia with sedation, are offered based on the severity of the procedure. Surgery for painful corns addresses the root causes of discomfort and can provide a permanent solution. If persistent corn-related pain affects your life, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. This foot doctor can assess the need for surgery or offer other treatment options as needed. 

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Michael Bess, DPM of Florida. Our podiatrist will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:

• Well-fitting socks
• Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
• Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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