Parents often hope for their newborn infant to have 10 fingers and toes. This hope is realized more often than not. The two most common foot deformities in newborns are metatarsus adductus and calcaneovalgus. Both conditions develop from how the baby’s feet have been positioned inside the uterus. Happily, these two problems usually improve on their own, without treatment. Metarsus adductus is a curve in the middle of the foot that happens when the feet are folded inward. The crookedness of the foot means how flexible it is and whether it can be straightened when pushed into its normal position. When the feet are stiff and do not correct themselves, they may benefit from casting, but this is usually not necessary. Calcaneovalgus is the opposite of metatarsus adductus. It is when the foot is pushed up and out. It may be difficult to point an infant’s foot down all the way. With both conditions, stretching the newborn's foot while feeding or during diaper changes could not hurt. If you are expecting a baby or are a parent of a newborn, consulting with a podiatrist can help deal with possible foot problems at birth, in addition to answering any questions you may have, and helping to ensure the health of your child’s feet.
Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Summit Podiatry. 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 one of our offices located in Wilmington, Whiteville, and Wallace, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
