Club foot is a condition that begins when the baby is inside the womb. It is considered to be a rare foot condition and is noticeable as the feet turn in and point down. It happens as a result of a short Achilles tendon and can affect one or both feet. Club foot is generally not painful to babies despite the difficulty in walking if it is not treated. An ultrasound can be performed during the pregnancy, and it can give the parents the opportunity to speak with their doctor about specific treatment methods. A common treatment is referred to as the Ponseti method, and this provides gentle manipulation that stretches the feet into a better position. This is followed by having the baby wear a cast, and the method is repeated approximately every eight weeks. Minor surgery may be necessary to perform on the Achilles tendon when the feet have straightened out, and this can be helpful in loosening this tendon. If you have questions about club foot, it is strongly advised that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can perform the necessary treatment options that can benefit your child. 

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact Matthew McQuaid, DPM of Lake Mendocino Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

• Freiberg’s disease
• Kohler’s disease
• Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Lakeport and Ukiah, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.