There are several foot disorders that are believed to be influenced or created by a genetic predisposition. Genetic foot disorders include bunions, flatfoot and club foot. Most become increasingly cumbersome, or even painful, if treatment is not sought. Treatment can involve painful procedures or surgeries.
Bunions
A bunion is an enlargement of the joint at the base of the big toe. Bunions form when bone or tissue around the big toe joint moves, forcing the toe to bend toward the others in a condition known as "hammer toe." Because this joint supports a lot of body weight, bunion pain can occur when left untreated. Bunions are thought to be caused by a genetic disorder that causes poor foot structure, according to the California Podiatric Medical Association. This weak structure will evolve into a bunion when environmental influences, like ill-fitting shoes, are put into play.
Flatfoot
Flatfoot is a common condition that is hereditary in nature, according to the Calgary Foot Clinic. Flatfooted people have an abnormal depression in their arch, which gives the feet the appearance of being collapsed and causes the heel to pronate outwards. People with flatfeet suffer from inadequate support of the bones and joints, and abnormal joint motion during gait. Foot orthotic devices can correct these problems and reduce the occurrence of painful symptoms that generally evolve over time, as the condition progresses with age.
Clubfoot
The March of Dimes describes clubfoot as one of the most common birth defects, and is usually diagnosed at birth or in utero when a foot is noted to be pointing downward while twisting inward. Clubfoot is not painful and does not pose a problem until a child begins to stand and walk. A series of operations and braces referred to as the Ponseti method is the most common surgery to rectify clubfoot, which can ultimately impair walking if left untreated. The disorder is thought to be a result of both genetic and environmental factors. The March of Dimes points to a study which found a woman smoker with a family history of clubfoot has a 20-fold increased risk of having an affected baby.
