Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is a group of inherited connective tissue disorders that affect collagen, a protein that provides strength and flexibility to joints, skin, and supportive tissues. In the feet, this condition can lead to joint instability, flat feet, frequent sprains, and chronic pain due to increased ligament laxity. The condition is caused by genetic changes that alter normal collagen formation. Symptoms include hypermobile joints, soft or stretchy skin, fatigue, and repeated joint injuries. Risk factors are primarily related to family history, since the disorder is inherited. Diagnosis is based on medical history, physical examination, and sometimes genetic testing. A podiatrist can help manage symptoms through custom orthotics, supportive footwear guidance, and stability-focused care. If your child has symptoms of this condition, it is suggested that you include a podiatrist on your healthcare team for effective treatment and management solutions.

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.

An ankle fracture is more than a broken bone. It affects how the ankle moves, bears weight, and stays stable. Treatment today focuses on restoring normal mechanics so the joint can function well long term. Fixing the back part of the ankle helps support the joint surface and improves overall stability. The syndesmosis, which connects the two lower leg bones, must be properly stabilized to keep the ankle aligned during walking. Repairing the deltoid ligament on the inner ankle may be needed when the joint remains unstable after bone repair. In some cases, the fibula on the outer ankle can be stabilized from the inside with a nail, which may reduce soft tissue disruption. Early, protected weightbearing is sometimes encouraged to promote healing and stiffness prevention. Because each fracture behaves differently, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for individualized treatment planning.

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Cracked heels are a common foot condition in which the skin surrounding the heel becomes dry, thickened, and split. This occurs when the skin loses moisture and elasticity, making it less able to withstand pressure when standing and walking. Weather changes, especially cold or dry climates, can worsen dryness and contribute to skin breakdown. Symptoms include rough skin, flaking, itching, discomfort, and, in more severe cases, painful fissures that may bleed. Risk factors include prolonged standing, wearing open back footwear, obesity, and underlying medical conditions that affect skin health. A podiatrist can assess the severity, provide professional treatment, and recommend proper skin care. If you have cracked or bleeding heels, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Bryan Sullivan, DPM from Mississippi Foot Center . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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.

A bunion develops when the bones and soft tissues around the big toe joint slowly lose their normal alignment and stability. The process often begins when the small supporting bones and ligaments beneath the joint weaken and no longer hold the toe in its proper position. As this support breaks down, the base of the big toe starts to shift outward, forming a bump, while the top of the big toe angles toward the second toe. This causes the tendons that help bend and straighten the big toe to be pulled out of place, which increases the sideways drift of the toe. A muscle along the outside of the foot then pulls the big toe into a twisted position, making the joint unstable. Over time, the joint rotates and becomes loose, leading to a visibly angled big toe and the prominent bump seen with a bunion. If you have a painful bunion, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for help.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, 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.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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.