Items filtered by date: November 2025

Clubfoot is a congenital condition in which a newborn’s foot is twisted out of its normal position, often turning inward or downward. The exact cause is not always known, but clubfoot may be related to genetic factors, abnormal fetal development, or limited space in the womb. Symptoms include a visibly misshapen foot, stiffness, and difficulty with normal movement as the child grows. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for proper development. A podiatrist can help by guiding specialized care that may include stretching, casting, bracing, or monitoring long-term foot function. Early intervention leads to better outcomes and improved mobility. If your child has signs of clubfoot, it is strongly suggested that you include a podiatrist on your health care team to ensure healthy growth and support proper foot alignment.

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

Diabetic wounds, especially on the feet, are a serious concern for individuals with diabetes, due to poor circulation and reduced sensation. These wounds may begin as small cuts, blisters, or pressure sores and can quickly develop into ulcers if not properly treated. They may appear red and swollen, or drain fluid, but may not be painful due to nerve damage. Common causes include high blood sugar levels, poor foot hygiene, ill-fitting shoes, and unnoticed injuries. A podiatrist plays a vital role in diabetic wound care by diagnosing the severity of the wound through physical examination and, when needed, imaging or lab tests. Treatments may include wound cleaning, debridement, pressure offloading, and advanced wound dressings. A podiatrist also provides education on proper foot care and prevention strategies to reduce the risk of future wounds. If you notice signs of a foot wound, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist immediately to avoid serious complications.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Tanisha Richmond, DPM from Richmond Foot & Ankle, LLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

If you are attempting to manage heel pain, such as from plantar fasciitis or heel spurs, custom orthotics may help you. Plantar fasciitis, resulting from strain on the plantar fascia, is notably painful and can stem from an inherent poor foot structure and function. Custom orthotics cater to these unique foot structures, promoting better function, supporting the foot's natural arch, and alleviating undue strain. It has been observed that those with high-arched feet, which inherently bear a lack of shock absorption, are more prone to plantar fasciitis. This lack of cushioning amplifies tension on the plantar fascia, especially around the heel. Custom orthotics target these very issues, adjusting foot mechanics to provide relief. While prefabricated supports can offer general comfort, they may fall short in addressing specific needs, especially for those individuals with high arches. If you have heel or foot pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to see if wearing custom-made orthotics can help to restore comfort.

Custom orthotics can be an important solution for reducing foot pain by targeting its structural causes rather than just the symptoms. When the feet are misaligned, excess strain develops in the muscles, tendons, and ligaments, often resulting in discomfort in the arches, balls of the feet, or toes. Orthotics are designed to match each foot’s natural shape, supporting proper alignment and evenly distributing pressure to ease pain and improve movement.

Foot pain is commonly caused by overuse, wearing improper footwear, or biomechanical issues that place added stress on sensitive areas. By stabilizing the foot and restoring natural motion, custom orthotics help reduce strain, calm inflammation, and promote healing. Many patients experience lasting relief and greater comfort while walking, standing, or exercising.

Created from a detailed assessment using advanced imaging or casting, each pair of orthotics is tailored to your individual needs. If you are experiencing ongoing foot pain, it is suggested that you contact our office for an evaluation and treatment.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Dayton, OH .

Research has shown the feet can indicate serious health issues within the body. The condition known as scleroderma may be evident in the feet. The symptoms can consist of cold feet and toes and can be associated with Raynaud’s phenomenon. Additional signs of scleroderma may include having patches of thickened skin that develop on the feet. The affected skin may be dry or itchy and will often require expert medical care. A chilblain may occur with Raynaud's disease and the skin may turn red, swollen, and become tender when touched. Having poor blood circulation and exposure to cold weather may lead to this condition, and it can affect the toes. There are simple methods that can be implemented to properly care for the feet. These can consist of choosing shoes that fit correctly and moisturizing the feet often. Many people who are affected by systemic sclerosis can experience a feeling of walking on small pebbles and this may be relieved by wearing custom-made orthotics. If you have any of these symptoms and would like to know more about systemic diseases of the feet, please confer with a podiatrist.

When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly.  If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact Tanisha Richmond, DPM from Richmond Foot & Ankle, LLC. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.

Systemic Diseases of the Feet

Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable.  Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.

Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.

Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.

Diabetes of the Feet

Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.

Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet. 

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

Achilles tendinitis is the inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It often develops from overuse, wearing poor footwear, tight calf muscles, or a sudden increase in physical activity. Runners are especially prone to this condition due to repetitive stress on the tendon. Symptoms include stiffness, tenderness, and pain along the back of the heel or lower calf, especially during activity or after rest. A podiatrist can provide a thorough evaluation, recommend custom orthotics, design stretching and strengthening programs, and offer advanced treatments to promote healing and prevent recurrence. If you have pain in your heel or lower calf, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide expert care and lasting relief from Achilles pain.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Tanisha Richmond, DPM of Richmond Foot & Ankle, LLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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