Items filtered by date: September 2019

Jayson Tatum, forward for the Boston Celtics and currently playing for the U.S. men's national basketball team at the World Cup, suffered a sprained ankle during the American win over Turkey on Tuesday, September 3rd. The game went into overtime and ended with the U.S. prevailing 93-92. The sprain occurred in the course of the game’s final possession and was confirmed the following day after tests. “I think I just slipped and fell the wrong way,” said Tatum of the injury. The consequential sprain kept Tatum out of the Americans’ games against Japan and Greece. Fortunately, Brad Stevens, coach of the Boston Celtics, expressed that the ankle sprain wasn’t serious. If you’re suffering from a sprained ankle, consult with your podiatrist for a proper evaluation.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Howard Horowitz from Bowie Foot & Ankle . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

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

A popular form of foot therapy includes foot massages. Many people find relief at the end of a work day by having their feet gently massaged. This can be beneficial in relieving pain and discomfort the feet may have endured during the day. Additionally, it may be easier to relax and sleep after a massage has been performed, and pain may be minimized throughout the body. Before beginning a foot massage, it can be helpful to soak the feet in warm water, followed by applying massage oil on the feet and ankles. An effective method of starting this type of therapy includes performing warm up twists, which allows the feet and ankles to prepare for the remainder of the massage. If more information is needed on the benefits of having regular foot massages, it is suggested that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist.

Foot therapy is often necessary for those recovering from either foot deformities or foot injuries. If you have concerns regarding therapy, Dr. Howard Horowitz of Bowie Foot & Ankle . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Most Common Injuries

People who are active or athletes are prone to a variety of injuries. Therefore, it is often important to take part in physical therapy in order to quickly get back on the right track. 

What to Do When Injured

Physical Therapy – This specialized treatment will focus on the affected area, speeding up recovery and the overall healing process. It is a proven method that has helped millions of people return from any injury.

During physical therapy you will undergo regimented training to get back into full form. Training is often very difficult, especially at first when the foot feels weak. Physical therapy often involves:

Basic stretching and twisting exercises – getting the feet’s mobility and flexibility up.

Massaging – the therapist will massage the injured area in order to activate the muscles and relax them.

Strengthening Exercises – this allows the muscles in the affected area to regain their full strength, a vital step towards full recovery.

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

Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!

Patients who have experienced an Achilles tendon injury are familiar with the pain and discomfort that is often associated with it. This tendon connects the heel to the calf muscles, and is considered to be the largest tendon in the body. If it should become inflamed as a result of an injury, Achilles tendonitis may develop. Additionally, it may gradually develop from overuse, and symptoms can consist of pain in the heel area or down the back of the leg. It may feel worse in the morning upon arising, and it will most likely be difficult to flex the foot. Common reasons for this type of injury to occur can include suddenly increasing the intensity of a sporting activity, improper stretching before exercising, or it may come from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. After a proper diagnosis is performed, the correct treatment can begin which can include a variety of options. If you are afflicted with this condition, it is advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can guide you toward the proper treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Howard Horowitz of Bowie Foot & Ankle . 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 Bowie, MD. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Many pregnant women notice their feet become larger as their pregnancy develops. This is often a result of additional weight gain caused by the growing fetus. Changes in hormone levels may cause the joints in the feet to become loose. Swollen feet are a common symptom that affect many pregnant women. Mild relief can be found while resting and elevating the feet. Additionally, it may be beneficial to perform gentle foot stretches, and this can be helpful in reducing excess fluid that may accumulate in the feet. It is important to wear shoes that fit correctly, and can offer the correct amount of support. Some pregnant women find it helpful to wear compression stockings in addition to wearing insoles, as they can add to the support of the shoe. If you have questions about how pregnancy affects the feet, please consult with a podiatrist who can provide you with the best information and recommendations.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Dr. Howard Horowitz from Bowie Foot & Ankle . Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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