Dr. Mayer  Salama
Dr. Daniel Salama
Dr. Brendan Johnson

Dearborn MI- (313) 274-0990

Trenton MI- (734) 675-2440

Clarkson MI- (248) 625-1110

Farmington MI- (248) 474-0040

House Calls- (248) 474-0040

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Rocker-Bottom Foot

When your child is born into the world, everything seems so surreal. The doctors usually check them out to make sure they are healthy not long after they are born. Most of the time, our babies come back to us with a clean bill of health. Sometimes, our babies are not so lucky. Some babies are born with foot deformities that need more surveillance and attention. Once such deformity is called Rocker-Bottom Foot. This deformity is very rare and is usually caught at birth.

Rocker-Bottom Foot is also known as congenital vertical talus. Podiatrists must distinguish this deformity from calcaneovalgus. At first, the two deformities can look similar, but upon further examination, it is evident that they are different. Rocker-Bottom Foot does not respond well to stretching. The foot is inflexible and rigid. In contrast, calcaneovalgus is a flexible deformity that can be fixed with stretching exercises over time. Rocker-Bottom Foot can only be corrected with surgery.

The deformed foot will have a downward point to it instead of an upward point. Usually the middle tarsal bones are dislocated due to this distinguishing factor.

It is important to examine all of the newborn for other deformities when Rocker-Bottom Foot is discovered. Multiple joint contractures (arthrogryposis) and meningomyelocele are very common in infants who suffer from Rocker-Bottom Foot and also need to be treated immediately. 

Upon examination, the affected child usually has a rigid foot with a reversed arch. A deep crease is also present on the foot. The midfoot and the forefoot are extended in an upward position. X-rays are useful when diagnosing Rocker-Bottom Foot.

Some stretching can help this condition but it is unlikely to cure it. Corrective surgery is usually the only treatment that can completely correct and heal the deformity. The surgery is complex and usually requires the podiatrist to fix three parts of the foot. It is important to heavily research your podiatric surgeon before choosing them. 

Dr. Mayer Salama and Dr. Daniel Salama located in Dearborn, Farmington Hills, Clarkston and Trenton, Michigan has two highly trained podiatrists who could be right for you. Dr. Mayer Salama and Dr. Daniel Salama have a diverse and advanced knowledge in foot and ankle care and surgery. If you are interested in consulting with them call 313-274-0990 or make an appointment online today. We know that your child is your top priority, let us make them our top priority too.

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All our professionals maintain the highest levels of accreditation and pursue ongoing education to stay abreast of the latest trends in podiatry.

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