One foot condition parents may encounter in their child’s feet is known as metatarsus adductus, recognizable when a child’s foot looks like it’s forming a C shape. Known by other names, such as metatarsus varus or pes adductus, it is a condition your child might have from birth. The front part of the foot, or the forefoot, points inward toward the back part of the foot. This makes the inside edge of the foot look curved and the outside edge look more rounded. Metatarsus adductus can be confused with other foot problems like skewfoot, which has a bump on the outside edge, or clubfoot, where the whole foot is turned inwards and down. Sometimes, this condition fixes itself as your child grows, but regular check-ups with a podiatrist are essential for monitoring progress. This medically trained foot doctor can suggest simple stretching exercises to help the foot align correctly. In addition, your podiatrist can prescribe custom shoe inserts for extra support and help correct the foot’s shape. In more severe cases, your child’s foot might be gently cast to guide it into the right position. Surgery may be suggested in extreme cases. With the right care and guidance, your child can have happy, healthy feet. If your child exhibits intoeing, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a complete examination and a treatment plan.
Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of PA Foot & Ankle Associates. 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 Allentown, Easton, Northampton, and Chew Street in Allentown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Congenital Foot Problems
