Some children are born with foot shapes that look different or affect how the foot functions as they grow. Common examples include calcaneovalgus, where the foot bends upward and outward, clubfoot, where the foot turns inward and downward, and metatarsus adductus, a condition in which the front part of the foot curves inward. Some problems are noticeable at birth, while others become clearer once a child begins standing or walking. Signs may include unusual foot positioning, difficulty with shoes, changes in walking, or discomfort, over time. A podiatrist can evaluate the condition, determine its severity, and recommend treatment based on the child's age and needs. Care may include monitoring, stretching, bracing, casting, or other supportive treatment to encourage healthy development. If your child has unusual foot positioning or walking concerns, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for expert guidance in managing the existing condition.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Bryan Sullivan, DPM of Mississippi Foot Center . 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 office located in Jackson, MS . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete's foot is a skin infection that affects the feet and is often caused by fungi that thrive in warm, and moist areas. Three common types of athlete's foot infections are interdigital, moccasin, and vesicular athlete’s foot. Interdigital athlete's foot develops between the toes and causes redness, peeling, and itching. Moccasin type affects the sole and sides of the foot, resulting in thickened, dry, and cracked skin. Vesicular type includes small fluid-filled blisters that may be painful. Causes include contact with contaminated surfaces, wearing tight-fitting shoes, and excessive sweating that creates a damp environment. The infection can spread through direct contact or shared spaces like pools or gyms. A podiatrist can confirm the diagnosis and provide medical treatment to clear the infection and protect the skin. If you have symptoms of athlete's foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Bryan Sullivan, DPM from Mississippi Foot Center .  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Jackson, MS . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A broken toe is a fracture in one of the small bones of the toe, often caused by dropping a heavy object on the foot or forcefully stubbing it. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, and sometimes a clearly deformed appearance. While it may be tempting to continue normal activities, running with a broken toe is not recommended. The repeated impact places added stress on the injured bone, which can worsen pain, delay healing, and increase the risk of improper alignment. Even if discomfort seems manageable, continuing to run can prolong recovery time, which is typically about six weeks with proper care. Risk factors include sports activities and not wearing protective footwear. A podiatrist can evaluate the injury, provide stabilization, and guide safe healing. If you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, and guide you on an appropriate time frame to resume running.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Bryan Sullivan, DPM from Mississippi Foot Center . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

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

Plantar warts are growths that develop on the bottom of the foot due to infection from the human papillomavirus, or HPV. They often appear as small, rough lesions with a grainy surface and may have tiny black dots within them, which are clotted blood vessels. Unlike other warts, they tend to grow inward because of pressure from walking or standing. Pain may increase with direct pressure, especially on weight-bearing areas, such as the heel or ball of the foot. These warts can spread through direct contact or from walking barefoot in shared spaces. A podiatrist can identify plantar warts and distinguish them from callouses or other skin conditions. Treatment includes topical medications, careful removal of thickened skin, or in-office procedures designed to eliminate the wart tissue. Addressing the condition early can reduce discomfort and limit spread. If you think you have a plantar wart, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment. 

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Bryan Sullivan, DPM from Mississippi Foot Center . Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Jackson, MS . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.