Items filtered by date: July 2024

Hammer toes are a common foot deformity where one or more toes bend abnormally at the middle joint, resembling a hammer. Symptoms include pain, corns, and calluses due to friction against shoes. Preventing hammer toes involves wearing shoes with roomy toe boxes, avoiding high heels, and regularly stretching toes and feet. Treatment options vary based on severity, ranging from padding and orthotic inserts to alleviate discomfort to exercises and splinting to straighten the toe. In advanced cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the toe's position. A podiatrist can provide a comprehensive assessment, recommend appropriate treatments, and offer personalized advice to manage symptoms and prevent progression. Early intervention can improve comfort and prevent the need for more invasive treatments down the road. If you notice persistent toe pain, stiffness, or changes in toe shape, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Dr. Howard Horowitz of Bowie Foot & Ankle . Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

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.

Metatarsalgia, a painful inflammation in the ball of the foot, commonly stems from overuse injuries in sports that involve running and jumping. Wearing poorly fitting shoes, foot abnormalities like high arches or bunions, and conditions such as arthritis can also contribute to this condition. Pain in the ball of the foot typically develops gradually and may worsen with activities like standing, walking, or high-impact sports. Symptoms can include a sensation of walking on a pebble, sharp burning pain, and numbness or tingling in the toes. Treatment by a podiatrist focuses on addressing the underlying cause and relieving pain. Conservative measures include resting the foot and taking pain relievers. Changing to well-fitting shoes with good support and using orthotic pads can also help to alleviate discomfort. Weight loss, if applicable, can reduce pressure on the metatarsal area. In more persistent cases, custom orthotics may be recommended to improve gait and foot mechanics. Surgery is considered to be a last resort if conservative treatments fail. If you are experiencing pain in the ball of the foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. Howard Horowitz from Bowie Foot & Ankle . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot 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.

Diabetes can have a profound impact on foot health, leading to complications such as nerve damage and poor circulation. These issues increase the risk of developing sores, infections, and even severe conditions that may necessitate amputation. Daily foot checks are essential for early detection of cuts, blisters, or signs of infection. Wearing appropriate socks is also important. Choose socks that wick away moisture, fit well, and are free of seams to prevent irritation. Selecting the right footwear is also important. Ensure that your shoes fit well, but also leave some room for toe movement to avoid pressure points. It's also advisable to avoid walking barefoot, even indoors, to protect against unnoticed injuries. Diabetic patients with venous insufficiency or swelling may benefit from wearing compression socks but should consult their podiatrist for the best options. Good foot hygiene, including washing with warm water and drying thoroughly, helps prevent fungal infections. Keeping toenails trimmed straight across can prevent ingrown toenails, which are another potential source of infection. Regular visits to a podiatrist can help manage and monitor foot health, preventing minor issues from escalating. If you experience diabetic foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, 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.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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.

Flip-flops, though convenient, can be harsh on your feet, especially for individuals at risk like those with diabetes. The lack of support in flip-flops leads to improper heel strike, causing stress on the heels and increasing the risk of plantar fasciitis. Further, to keep the flip flops on, wearers often grip with their toes, which can cause muscle strain and negatively affect conditions like hammertoes. For people with diabetes, the minimal protection provided by flip-flops increases the risk of cuts, blisters, and infections due to decreased sensation and poor wound healing. Additionally, the flat design offers little or no arch support, leading to pain and discomfort in the feet and ankles. If you have foot pain as a result of wearing flip-flops, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you relief tips, in addition to guiding you on more favorable footwear choices.

Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Howard Horowitz from Bowie Foot & Ankle . Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops.  Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off; they're perfect for any summer beach goer.  However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.

How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?

• Ankle problems
• Hip problems
• Lower back problems
• Pain in the balls of the feet
• Problems with foot arches
• Changes in the way you walk

Are There Injuries Associated with Flip-Flops?

Yes.  Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops regularly are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections.  Common injuries and ailments include:

• Sprained ankles
• Blisters
• Infections
• Cuts and Scrapes

I like Wearing Flip-Flops. Are There Safe Alternatives?

When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and that are made of high-quality materials that will support for your feet.  These flip-flops will cost more but will also last longer as a result.

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.

Swollen feet and ankles can result from various causes. Prolonged standing or sitting, particularly during travel, can lead to fluid accumulation in the lower extremities. Injuries such as sprains or strains often cause localized swelling as part of the body's natural response to trauma. Medical conditions like heart disease, kidney problems, and liver disorders can also lead to swelling due to fluid retention. Additionally, pregnancy frequently causes swollen feet and ankles from increased pressure on the veins. Certain medications, including those for high blood pressure or diabetes, may have swelling as a side effect. Lifestyle changes like regular exercise, elevating the legs, and wearing compression socks may help to manage and reduce swelling. Swollen feet and ankles also may indicate an underlying health condition. If you have swollen feet and ankles that are causing discomfort, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can uncover the reason and offer you relief remedies.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. 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.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

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.