Congenital foot problems are differences in the structure, function, or appearance of a child’s foot that are present at birth. These deformities can range from mild to severe and may affect mobility as a child grows. They can involve the bones, muscles, or tendons of the foot. Common examples include clubfoot, webbed toes, and cleft foot. Clubfoot causes the foot to point downward and inward. Webbed toes occur when two or more toes are joined by skin, tissue, or bone. Some congenital foot deformities develop because of genetic factors, while others may be related to development or positioning in the womb.

The effects of congenital foot deformities vary depending on the type and severity. Diagnosis often begins with a physical examination after birth, although certain deformities can be identified during a prenatal ultrasound. Imaging may also be used to examine the bones and joints. Some children have little or no difficulty with walking, while other conditions can interfere with comfortable movement. Clubfoot may affect one or both feet and can cause long-term mobility problems without treatment. Cleft foot is a rare deformity that creates an abnormal split in the middle of the foot and may involve missing toes.  

A podiatrist can evaluate a child’s foot structure and help determine how a congenital deformity may affect movement and development. Treatment depends on the specific condition and its severity. Orthotic devices, specialized footwear, or other professional care may be recommended to improve alignment and function. Some children may require surgery when a deformity significantly affects mobility or comfort. Early evaluation can help create an appropriate treatment plan as the child grows and their needs change. The goal of care is to support comfortable walking. If your child has a congenital foot problem that may be affecting movement or development, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact David Lambarski, DPM of Northeast Foot Care. 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 offices located in Amsterdam and Clifton Park, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ankle fusion surgery is used to join the bones of a damaged ankle joint so they heal into one stable connection. This procedure is also called ankle arthrodesis. The goal is to reduce severe pain and improve stability when an ankle has become badly damaged. Fusion does not restore normal ankle motion, but it can make walking more comfortable by removing painful movement. This surgery is generally considered when other treatments have not provided enough relief.

Ankle arthritis is a common reason for fusion surgery. It can develop after an injury, repeated stress, or years of joint wear. Severe joint damage from inflammatory arthritis or previous fractures may also cause ongoing pain. Symptoms include ankle stiffness, swelling, and pain while walking. A podiatrist or podiatric surgeon will evaluate the ankle and use imaging tests to determine whether fusion is appropriate.

There are two main approaches to ankle fusion. Open ankle fusion uses an incision that allows the surgeon to directly access the joint, remove damaged cartilage, and prepare the bones for healing. Arthroscopic ankle fusion uses a camera and specialized instruments through smaller incisions. The surgeon removes damaged cartilage and positions the bones so they can fuse together. The choice depends on joint damage, anatomy, and the podiatric surgeon's assessment. Screws or other fixation devices may be used to hold the bones securely while they heal.

After surgery, careful protection of the ankle is important. A podiatrist may prescribe a cast or boot and provide instructions for limiting weight on the surgical foot. Follow-up visits and imaging tests help monitor bone healing and alignment. Pain management and incision care are also part of recovery. The podiatrist will explain when it is safe to gradually increase activity. If you have ankle pain that may require ankle fusion surgery, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if this type of surgery is right for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact David Lambarski, DPM of Northeast Foot Care. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Amsterdam and Clifton Park, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Morton’s neuroma develops when tissue surrounding a nerve in the ball of the foot becomes thickened and irritated. It usually affects the area between the third and fourth toes, although it can develop between other toes. The condition can cause burning pain, tingling, or numbness in the ball of the foot and toes. Some patients describe the feeling as having a small pebble inside the shoe. Pain can become more noticeable when walking or placing pressure on the front of the foot. Wearing tight shoes and high heels can squeeze the toes together and place added pressure on the irritated nerve.

Several factors can contribute to Morton’s neuroma. Foot structure can affect how pressure is distributed across the front of the foot. Flat feet, high arches, and bunions can increase stress in this area. Activities that repeatedly place pressure on the ball of the foot can also irritate the nerve. A podiatrist can examine the painful area and evaluate how the foot moves when walking. X-rays can help rule out other problems, including arthritis or a stress fracture. Ultrasounds or other digital imaging can provide a closer look at the soft tissues when the diagnosis is uncertain.

Treatment from a podiatrist focuses on reducing pressure around the affected nerve and relieving pain. Custom orthotics can improve foot support and redistribute pressure away from the painful area. A podiatrist can also recommend changes in shoe style and fit to provide more room across the toes. Persistent or severe symptoms may require surgery to remove damaged nerve tissue or release structures that are placing pressure on it. Treatment depends on the location and severity of the problem. If you have symptoms of Morton's neuroma, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact David Lambarski, DPM of Northeast Foot Care. Our doctor 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 Amsterdam and Clifton Park, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis that develops when uric acid builds up in the blood and forms sharp crystals in a joint. These crystals can trigger sudden inflammation, making gout extremely painful. Gout commonly affects the big toe because the joint is relatively cool and receives repeated pressure from walking. Lower temperatures can encourage crystal formation. Recognizing gout symptoms can help you seek care before pain becomes difficult to manage.

A gout attack often begins suddenly, sometimes during the night. The big toe may become intensely painful, swollen, and extremely tender. Even light contact from bedding or a shoe can feel uncomfortable. Some people notice shiny skin around the affected joint. Without treatment, an attack may last for days. Repeated flares can damage the joint and contribute to the formation of tophi, which are firm deposits of uric acid crystals beneath the skin.

Several factors can increase gout risk. High uric acid levels are the main cause, but kidney problems can make it harder for the body to remove uric acid. Family history can also play a role. Certain medications, dehydration, and a diet high in purine-rich foods may increase risk. Obesity and some metabolic conditions can further contribute. A podiatrist can review your symptoms and examine the foot. Testing may also help confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment depends on the severity and frequency of attacks. A podiatrist may recommend rest, supportive footwear, and measures that reduce pressure on the painful joint. Medication may help control inflammation and pain during an acute flare. Long-term care may focus on lowering uric acid levels and preventing future attacks with guidance from your healthcare provider. If you have intense pain in your big toe, or other symptoms of gout, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this painful condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact David Lambarski, DPM from Northeast Foot Care. 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 offices located in Amsterdam and Clifton Park, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.