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 one of our podiatrists of Whitestone Podiatry PC. 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 our office located in Whitestone, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Blisters on the feet develop when friction, heat, or moisture causes the upper layer of skin to separate and fill with fluid. They are common after long walks, wearing new shoes, or increased physical activity. Although they may seem minor, blisters can become painful and interfere with normal movement. The area often appears raised, clear, and tender to the touch. If the blister breaks, the exposed skin underneath can feel raw and sensitive. In some cases, redness, warmth, or drainage may signal infection. People with diabetes or circulation concerns should be especially cautious, as even small skin injuries can lead to complications. A podiatrist can evaluate the blister to determine whether it should be drained safely, protected with proper dressing, or treated for infection. Treatment may also include guidance on footwear, moisture control, and targeted exercises to reduce friction and pressure. If you have painful or persistent blisters on the feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for proper evaluation and care.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of Whitestone Podiatry PC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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

A vascular exam allows a podiatrist to assess how well blood is flowing to the feet and ankles. The exam often begins with observation of skin color, temperature, swelling, and changes in hair or nail growth that may signal reduced circulation. Pulses on the top of the foot and near the ankle are gently felt to evaluate arterial flow. The podiatrist gently presses on the skin of the toes to observe how quickly normal color returns, which reflects small vessel function. In some cases, a handheld device is used to listen to blood flow more clearly. These findings help identify circulation concerns that may affect healing, nerve health, or skin integrity. Vascular assessment is especially important for individuals with diabetes, wounds, leg pain, or slow-healing sores. If changes in foot color, temperature, or healing are noticed, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for further evaluation and appropriate care.

Vascular testing plays an important part in diagnosing disease like peripheral artery disease. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, or diabetes, consult with one of our podiatrists from Whitestone Podiatry PC. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Vascular Testing?

Vascular testing checks for how well blood circulation is in the veins and arteries. This is most often done to determine and treat a patient for peripheral artery disease (PAD), stroke, and aneurysms. Podiatrists utilize vascular testing when a patient has symptoms of PAD or if they believe they might. If a patient has diabetes, a podiatrist may determine a vascular test to be prudent to check for poor blood circulation.

How Is it Conducted?

Most forms of vascular testing are non-invasive. Podiatrists will first conduct a visual inspection for any wounds, discoloration, and any abnormal signs prior to a vascular test.

 The most common tests include:

• Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) examination
• Doppler examination
• Pedal pulses

These tests are safe, painless, and easy to do. Once finished, the podiatrist can then provide a diagnosis and the best course for treatment.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Whitestone, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Carrying extra body weight puts added strain on the feet every day. With each step, the heels and arches absorb more pressure than they are designed to handle. This can lead to heel pain, flattening of the arch, and aching in the ball of the foot. The joints may become stiff, tendons may feel sore, and the risk of arthritis increases over time. Some people also notice burning, swelling, or tired feet after standing or walking for short periods. Body fat can also affect how tissues function, which may increase discomfort beyond simple pressure alone. A podiatrist can examine how you stand and walk, check foot alignment, and measure areas of high pressure. Treatment includes custom orthotics, supportive bracing, and guidance to reduce stress on the feet and prevent further damage. If you have foot pain that may be related to excess weight, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Whitestone Podiatry PC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Obesity and Your Feet

Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.

Problems & Complications

Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.

Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.

Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot. 

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