Items filtered by date: October 2023

Nerve pain in the feet, commonly known as neuralgia, often results from irritation of the nerves between the toe bones, leading to nerve enlargement and neuroma formation. This discomfort can be attributed to various factors, including wearing ill-fitting shoes, diminished fat padding around the nerves, poor foot posture, and structural abnormalities. Women are more susceptible to neuromas. Diagnosis relies on clinical evaluation and patient symptom description since imaging techniques such as X-rays, MRIs, and ultrasonography are used mainly to exclude other conditions. Treatment options include corticosteroid injections into the affected area to reduce inflammation and pain. In some instances, cryotherapy, which involves the application of extreme cold, can help numb the nerves and reduce discomfort. Wearing custom orthotic devices may provide added support and evenly distribute the weight across the foot, reducing nerve irritation and improving the patient's quality of life. For effective treatment options for nerve pain in the feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with one of our podiatrists from In Step Podiatry Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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

The key to comfortable footwear lies in getting the right fit. Ill-fitting shoes or boots can lead to a host of issues, including blisters, calluses, and chronic foot problems. To ensure your footwear provides the perfect fit, begin by measuring your feet regularly, as their size can change over time. Always try on both shoes and shop in the afternoon when your feet are slightly larger due to daily activities. Consider the type of socks you will be wearing with your shoes, as this can affect the fit. Pay attention to how the shoes or boots feel, ensuring there is enough space in the toe box, and that your heels do not slip. Walk around in them to test comfort and stability. Lastly, remember that sizes can vary between brands and styles, so rely more on the fit and feel than the size on the label. If you would like additional tips on how to buy shoes that fit properly, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can provide you with the information you are seeking.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from In Step Podiatry Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

• Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
• Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
• Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
• Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

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

Gout, often associated with older, overweight men who indulge in rich food and excessive alcohol, is increasingly affecting younger individuals. Gout is a form of arthritis caused by the accumulation of uric acid, or urate in the bloodstream. Urate crystals can develop in joints, causing intense and sudden pain, most commonly in the big toe. While gout is more commonly associated with older age, it can affect people of all ages, including young adults and even teenagers. Several factors can increase the risk of developing gout at a younger age, including a family history of gout, consuming a diet high in purine-rich foods, or being overweight. It can also affect people who have certain medical conditions, or who take specific medications. Treatment involves managing acute attacks by taking anti-inflammatory drugs, and urate-lowering medication may be used for long-term prevention. Dietary changes, including avoiding alcohol, may help to prevent gout. If you are a younger person and are experiencing symptoms of gout in your big toe, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose this condition and provide the correct treatment.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from In Step Podiatry Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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

Studies show that ankle sprains are the most common injury experienced among runners. Additionally, if you have experienced an ankle sprain in the past, you are 75 percent more likely to develop chronic ankle instability. As a result, choosing the right running shoe is of paramount importance to avoid these outcomes. First, opt for shoes with a high-top design or added ankle padding. These features can help stabilize the ankle joint and reduce the risk of sprains and strains during your runs. Additionally, a snug and secure fit around the ankle area, particularly at the heel, is essential. Look for shoes with padded collars and lacing systems that allow you to adjust the tightness to your comfort level. Cushioning is another key factor in finding shoes with adequate ankle support. Shoes with ample cushioning in the heel and midsole provide shock absorption, which helps minimize the impact on the ankles. Further, choose running shoes with a durable outsole that offers excellent traction, ensuring a stable and confident stride. Finally, take into account the type of terrain you typically run on when deciding on the right shoes. For more information on protecting your ankles while running, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from In Step Podiatry Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.

• Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
• Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
• Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.

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

Baxter's nerve entrapment, or Baxter’s neuritis, is a condition where a small nerve, known as the Baxter's nerve or the first branch of the lateral plantar nerve, becomes pinched between two muscles in the inner foot. This can result in sharp, burning pain in the inner heel, often accompanied by numbness, or a pins and needles sensation. It can develop gradually without a specific injury and is not limited by age or gender. It can be challenging to differentiate between Baxter's nerve entrapment and plantar fasciitis because they have similar symptoms. Diagnosis involves a clinical interview, physical testing, and a diagnostic ultrasound scan to confirm the presence of Baxter's nerve entrapment. Treatment typically begins with conservative approaches, including pain management, strengthening exercises, stretches, and orthotics. If conservative treatment does not work, ultrasound guided steroid injections may be considered to reduce inflammation. It is beneficial that these injections are used in conjunction with conservative care to prevent the pain from returning. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of In Step Podiatry Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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