PAEDIATRIC PODIATRY & GENETICS

Pediatric podiatry and genetics intersect in understanding how genetic factors influence foot development, abnormalities, and disorders in children. Here are some key points related to their overlap:

1. Genetic Influence on Pediatric Foot Disorders

• Congenital Conditions: Many pediatric foot disorders have genetic origins, such as:

• Clubfoot (Congenital Talipes Equinovarus): A deformity where the foot twists inward, often with a genetic predisposition.

• Flatfoot: Some cases of flexible flatfoot may have familial trends.

• Polydactyly/Syndactyly: Extra or fused toes are often linked to genetic mutations or syndromes.

• Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT): A hereditary neuromuscular disorder causing foot deformities like high arches and claw toes.

• Syndromic Disorders: Genetic syndromes such as Down syndrome or Marfan syndrome often present with characteristic foot and gait abnormalities.

2. Inherited Biomechanics

• Gait Abnormalities: Inherited factors can contribute to issues like toe walking, knock knees, or pigeon-toed walking.

• Structural Deformities: Families may share traits like bunions or high arches due to shared genetics.

3. Genetic Testing and Diagnosis

• Genetic testing helps confirm diagnoses of inherited disorders that affect the feet and gait. For instance:

• Molecular studies for CMT or connective tissue disorders.

• Chromosomal analysis in cases of syndromic conditions with foot manifestations.

4. Management Approaches

• Customized Care: Pediatric podiatrists often collaborate with geneticists for a multidisciplinary approach, especially for complex or syndromic