Ankle And Foot Deformity Specialist

What is an ankle or foot deformity?

An ankle or foot deformity is any one of a long list of conditions affecting the internal foot and ankle structures. Deformities can occur at the time of birth, but in many cases, ankle and foot deformities develop over time and appear in adulthood.

What are the different kinds of ankle and foot deformities?

Some of the most common ankle and foot deformities include:

Bunions

A bunion is a genetic problem resulting in a boney protrusion on the side of your big toe joint. This is actually a problem of the midfoot and simply removing the bump does not address the root of the problem.

Hammertoes

Hammertoes occur when one of your little toes bends in the middle, turning the end of the toe down and maintaining a bent position. It occurs when your muscles, ligaments, and tendons become imbalanced.

Flat feet

Flat feet means you have no foot arch. This genetic deformity can occur because the bones in your foot did not form an arch, or as a result of wear-and-tear through your adult years, or sudden injury.

Cavus foot

Cavus foot is a deformity in which your foot arches are much higher than normal. You can inherit the foot structure that leads to Cavus foot, or may develop it because of neurological conditions or other medical problems.

Charcot foot (Pronounced Shark -o)

Charcot foot often occurs in diabetes sufferers, as neuropathy (nerve damage) and increased circulation can lead to bone fractures. This can cause the foot bones to push out in a rocker-bottom shape. Only three conditions are required to develop a Charcot foot: Neuropathy, Pressure and a Joint. As long as these three conditions are present, you can develop Charcot. Diabetes is not necessarily a requirement for Charcot. This is an incredibly complicated condition.

Varus ankle

Varus ankle happens when your foot and ankle turn inward, rotating toward the other foot. Causes can include neuromuscular disorders and bone development problems, among others. There are also many other foot and ankle deformities, both congenital and acquired.

Valgus ankle

Valgus ankle happens when your foot and ankle turn outward, away from your other foot. It often occurs with arthritis caused by trauma.

 How is an ankle or foot deformity treated?

At Water Oak Foot and Ankle Surgery, Dr. McCabe treats ankle and foot deformities on a case-by-case basis. In some instances, conservative treatments like custom orthotics and custom bracing may improve your comfort and function. But, if your foot or ankle deformity involves major structural issues like displaced bones and badly damaged soft tissue, you may need surgery. Dr. McCabe will discuss surgery only when conservative measures have been exhausted.

Dr. McCabe spent a considerable amount of time as a resident and a fellow learning how to surgically treat deformities caused by trauma or by Charcot and can explain all possible options if surgery is warranted.

Dr. McCabe tells you about all of the treatment options and explains the reasons to consider each so you can make the right decision.

Schedule your appointment with Water Oak Foot and Ankle Surgery using the online booking tool or call the office to arrange a consultation now.