A newborn’s foot is soft, flexible, and still developing. At birth, the bones are not fully formed and are mostly made of cartilage, which allows the foot to adapt and grow. It is normal for baby feet to appear flat because the arches have not yet developed. Toes may be curled or turned slightly due to their position in the womb, and in most cases, these resolve naturally over time. Gentle movement, barefoot time, and avoiding tight shoes or socks help promote healthy development. While most newborn foot shapes and positions are harmless, certain conditions like clubfoot or metatarsus adductus may require early treatment. Regular check-ups can help ensure your baby’s feet are growing as expected. If you notice stiffness, unusual shape, or difficulty with movement, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper evaluation and peace of mind.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Barry University Foot and Ankle Institute. 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 Miami, North Miami Beach, Miami Beach, and Tamarac, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Rheumatoid arthritis in the feet can lead to a range of symptoms that affect daily movement and comfort. This autoimmune condition often targets the metatarsophalangeal, or MTP,  joint, along with joints in the toes, resulting in pain, stiffness, and swelling. Over time, such joint damage can alter foot structure, causing the arches to collapse and leading to flat feet. The shifting alignment of the toes may also contribute to the development of bunions and hammertoes. As pressure points change, thickened skin such as calluses may form on the soles or sides of the feet. These symptoms can make walking painful and reduce stability. Early recognition of these signs is essential for managing rheumatoid arthritis. If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious and painful condition.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Barry University Foot and Ankle Institute. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

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

Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, is a condition in which narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the limbs, most commonly affecting the legs and feet. It occurs due to a buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries, a process known as atherosclerosis. Symptoms often include leg pain or cramping during walking, known as claudication, which improves with rest. Other signs may include numbness, weakness, slow-healing wounds, and a change in skin color or temperature. Causes of this condition include smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol, which contribute to artery damage. Poor circulation from this disease increases the risk of infections and complications. If you have symptoms of this condition, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can guide you toward relief and treatment tactics.

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with one of our podiatrists from Barry University Foot and Ankle Institute. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

• Claudication (leg pain from walking)
• Numbness in legs
• Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
• Paleness of the skin
• Erectile dysfunction
• Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
• Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Miami, North Miami Beach, Miami Beach, and Tamarac, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A condition known as trigger toe affects the movement of the big toe, often causing pain and difficulty in extending it. Trigger toe is most common among dancers, particularly when they engage in repetitive motion. Trigger toe occurs when the flexor hallucis longus, or FHL, tendon becomes irritated or inflamed, and is unable to glide smoothly within its sheath. This tendon runs along the inside of the ankle, passes behind the bony bump on the inner ankle, and continues along the sole of the foot to attach at the base of the big toe. It helps point the big toe and is used in movements like rising onto the toe. Symptoms of trigger toe include pain, stiffness, or a catching feeling in the toe. A podiatrist can conduct a physical exam and order imaging tests to diagnose the problem. Recovery may take four to six weeks, involving targeted stretches, supportive devices, and limited activity. In extreme cases, surgery may be needed to release the affected tendon. If you are experiencing difficulty extending your big toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and appropriate treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Barry University Foot and Ankle Institute. 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 feel free to contact our offices located in Miami, North Miami Beach, Miami Beach, and Tamarac, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Heel pain can be incredibly debilitating, impacting daily activities and mobility. Common causes include plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and heel spurs. Symptoms often include sharp or dull pain in the heel or the underside of the foot, particularly after periods of rest. Effective treatment options involve exercises to reduce discomfort and inflammation. Wearing supportive footwear with proper cushioning can also help provide relief. However, obtaining an accurate diagnosis from a podiatrist is essential for a tailored treatment plan. They can recommend specific exercises or, in more severe cases, corticosteroid injections. If heel pain persists or worsens, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. Their expertise ensures you receive targeted care and a treatment plan that addresses the root cause of your discomfort.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Barry University Foot and Ankle Institute. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Miami, North Miami Beach, Miami Beach, and Tamarac, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.