Items filtered by date: January 2026

Tuesday, 27 January 2026 00:00

Methods for Dealing With Clubfoot

Clubfoot is a condition present at birth where the foot turns inward and downward, affecting alignment and walking if not addressed. Management often begins early, when bones and soft tissues are more flexible. Gentle, guided stretching and serial casting are commonly used to gradually reposition the foot over several weeks. After correction, bracing helps maintain alignment as a child grows and reduces the risk of recurrence. In some cases, a minor procedure to lengthen the Achilles tendon may be recommended to improve ankle motion. More complex deformities may require surgery to correct bone position and balance muscle forces. Ongoing monitoring is important, since growth can influence foot structure and gait. A podiatrist plays an important role by evaluating progress, guiding bracing use, and addressing concerns related to walking, shoe wear, and comfort over time. If your child has clubfoot, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Evan Young, DPM of Trinity Foot & Ankle . 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 Trinity, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Congenital Foot Problems
Tuesday, 20 January 2026 00:00

Ankle Sprains and Volleyball

An ankle sprain is an injury that occurs when the ligaments supporting the ankle are stretched or torn, often due to sudden twisting or rolling of the joint. This injury commonly happens in volleyball when athletes land awkwardly after jumping, change direction quickly, or step on another player’s foot. Repeated ankle sprains can lead to chronic instability, causing the ankle to feel weak, unstable, or prone to giving way during activity. Ongoing instability may increase the risk of further injury and long-term joint problems. A podiatrist can help by evaluating ankle alignment, ligament integrity, and movement patterns. Treatment may include bracing, rehabilitation exercises, and custom orthotics to improve stability and support healing. If you enjoy playing volleyball and have sustained an ankle injury, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, enabling you to return to your desired sport as soon as possible.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Evan Young, DPM from Trinity Foot & Ankle . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

  • Mild to moderate bruising
  • Limited mobility
  • Swelling
  • Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

  • Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
  • Stretching before exercises and sports
  • Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

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

Read more about Three Grades of Ankle Sprains
Tuesday, 13 January 2026 00:00

Foot Conditions During Pregnancy

Pregnancy can bring significant changes to the feet due to weight gain, hormonal shifts, and fluid retention. Common issues include flat feet, which may develop or worsen as ligaments relax, and swelling or edema, causing discomfort and reduced mobility. Pregnant individuals may also experience ingrown toenails, hot or burning sensations, and bunions, all of which can affect daily activities. Hormonal changes and increased pressure on the feet contribute to these conditions, making early intervention important. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, provide safe treatments and recommend supportive footwear, in addition to suggesting exercises to reduce discomfort, and offer strategies to prevent worsening conditions. If you have foot pain during your pregnancy, please schedule a podiatry appointment to protect foot health, relieve pain, and maintain comfort and mobility throughout pregnancy and beyond.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Evan Young, DPM from Trinity Foot & Ankle . Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

  • Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
  • Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
  • Wear shoes with good arch support
  • Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
  • Elevate feet if you experience swelling
  • Massage your feet
  • Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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

Read more about Pregnancy and Foot Health
Tuesday, 06 January 2026 00:00

Risk Factors and Causes of Ingrown Toenails

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. Common causes include improper nail trimming, wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, repetitive pressure, and trauma to the toe. Risk factors include genetic nail shape, diabetes, poor circulation, and participation in sports that stress the toes. Signs of an ingrown toenail include redness, tenderness, swelling, and, in severe cases, pus or drainage. If left untreated, the condition can lead to more serious infection and discomfort. A podiatrist can provide safe removal, recommend proper nail care techniques, prescribe medications for infection or inflammation, and offer preventive strategies. If you have signs of an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, which may include minor surgery for removal.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Evan Young, DPM of Trinity Foot & Ankle . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

  • Bacterial infections
  • Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
  • Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
  • Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
  • Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

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

Read more about Ingrown Toenails

If you are suffering from tenderness, pain, or stiffness in the joints of your feet or ankles, call us to schedule an appointment.

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