Items filtered by date: December 2023

Athlete's foot, or tinea pedis, is a fungal infection that affects up to 70 percent of the population. Despite its name, athlete’s foot is not limited to athletes. It can affect anyone exposed to various fungi that thrive in warm and moist environments, such as gyms, locker rooms, swimming pools, and communal showers. Exposure is also possible at nail salons and through contact with contaminated socks, towels and clothing. Direct person-to-person transmission is also possible. Walking barefoot in areas frequented by someone with athlete's foot is a common mode of transmission. Warmth combined with moisture is a popular breeding ground for fungal infections like athlete’s foot. Several factors increase the risk of developing this annoying condition. Walking barefoot in wet, dark areas and wearing footwear made of material that does not breathe create an ideal environment for fungal growth. Excessive sweating or exposure to external moisture increases the risk. Wearing the same shoes and socks for extended periods can damage the skin and leave you open to infection. Individuals with diabetes are predisposed, and having eczema may contribute. Athlete's foot appears to affect more men than women. Pedicures performed in contaminated environments also can contribute to the spread of the disease. If you have been infected with athlete’s foot that has become problematic, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an examination and advanced treatment measures. 

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Dr. Howard Horowitz from Bowie Foot & Ankle . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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 care needs.

Cuboid fractures are rare and occur when the cuboid bone in the foot becomes broken. The cuboid bone is one of the smallest bones in the foot, and when it breaks, it can cause pain and trouble walking. Cuboid syndrome is a condition that is related to the cuboid bone. It happens when the cuboid bone does not move or function properly. This can cause pain on the outer part of your foot and make it hard to walk. Sometimes, cuboid syndrome can occur after a cuboid fracture because the bone may not heal correctly, or may still be out of place. If you have foot pain on the outer side of the foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to obtain a proper diagnosis and treatment that will help you return to normal activity as quickly as possible.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with Dr. Howard Horowitz from Bowie Foot & Ankle . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

• Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
• Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
• Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

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 care needs.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition characterized by the compression of the tibial nerve as it passes through the tarsal tunnel in the ankle. Several factors can increase the risk of developing this syndrome. Some individuals may have foot structures that predispose them to tarsal tunnel syndrome. This includes flat feet or high arches, which can create abnormal pressure on the tibial nerve within the tarsal tunnel. Previous ankle injuries, fractures, or sprains can damage the structures within the tarsal tunnel, potentially leading to compression of the tibial nerve. Underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes, arthritis, or peripheral neuropathy, can increase the risk of nerve compression within the tarsal tunnel. Engaging in activities that involve repetitive foot movements or prolonged standing can strain the tibial nerve, raising the risk of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Wearing improperly fitting shoes or those lacking proper support can contribute to nerve compression in the tarsal tunnel. Excess body weight can exert added pressure on the foot and ankle, potentially compressing the tibial nerve. If you suffer from pain, numbness, or tingling in your ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, 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.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

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.

Choosing shoes that fit correctly is a nuanced process that directly impacts comfort and foot health. Start by knowing your foot size, which can change over time and may differ between brands. It is beneficial to prioritize comfort over style, as shoes that feel good are more likely to provide adequate support. Ensure there is enough room for your toes to move and avoid tightness in the toe box, which can lead to discomfort and deformities over time. The arch support should match the natural curve of your foot. It's important to pay attention to the width, as shoes that are too narrow or too wide can cause friction and pressure points. Walk around in the shoes before purchasing to assess overall comfort and ensure a snug fit. Different shoe types may require slight adjustments in sizing. If you would like more information about how to find shoes that fit right for your feet, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of Dr. Howard Horowitz from Bowie Foot & Ankle . Our doctor will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

• When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
• Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
• Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
• Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
• If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

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 care needs.