Research has shown that more than half of the population stands while working. Potential health risks may be increased when standing is done for long periods of time. The feet are the foundation of the body, and it is important that they are protected while working. This can consist of wearing shoes that fit correctly and choosing shoes that have a low heel. These types of shoes can be helpful in protecting the hamstrings and back, and may prevent osteoarthritis from developing. Taking frequent breaks will allow movement, which may help to maintain proper circulation. Additionally, shuffling the feet while standing can accomplish the same thing by redistributing body weight. Many sources believe the body’s flexibility and ability to function can improve when strength training exercises are performed. If you would like more information about what type of shoes to buy for your work day, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Queen Mbanuzue, DPM from In Step Podiatry Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

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.

A hammertoe is typically found in the second and third toe and is characterized by a raised joint in the middle of the toe. The tip of the toe curls under the foot as the middle joint raises up. In the early stages, the hammertoe may still be flexible, but later on, it may become rigid. This deformity can be caused by the long-term wearing of high heels, which often have a small and pointed-toe box. Hammertoe also can be congenital or caused by arthritis. Symptoms of a hammertoe are curling toes, raised joints, callus formation under the affected toe, and pain on the affected joint from rubbing against the top of a shoe. Wearing shoes that fit properly is one way of decreasing the development of hammertoe because once it is formed it is likely to become permanent. Avoid wearing shoes that squeeze the toes together, especially those that force the weight of the body onto the ball of the foot. Treatment for hammertoe varies, depending on the severity of the deformity. Treatment can range from wearing protective pads or strapping down the toe, to surgery on the joint and removal of bone. For more information on dealing with a hammertoe and its side effects, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Queen Mbanuzue, DPM from In Step Podiatry Center. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

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.

If you are someone that is prone to cracked heels, then you ought to be especially aware of the possibility of developing an infection because of this condition. Cracked heels occur when the skin covering the heel becomes severely dehydrated and fissures begin to form on the skin. As a result of these fissures, the skin might even start to bleed. Infections are an important risk to be aware of if you have cracked heels. Specifically, if an individual removes skin on the heels through a process known as debridement, an infection might occur. For example, if too much skin is removed with a razor, then the individual might be setting themselves up for a nasty infection. If you have cracked heels, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist promptly. This medical professional will be able to help you treat your condition and answer any questions you might have. 

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Queen Mbanuzue, DPM from In Step Podiatry Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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.

A car accident, a sporting mishap, or a fall are the leading causes of broken ankles. They can range from severe to a hairline fracture, and they can require different forms of treatment. Most people who have broken their ankle often get an X-ray. This is generally successful in determining how severe the fracture is and deciding the type of treatment that will work. Wearing a boot or cast is a common form of treatment for mild breaks, and more severe breaks may require surgery for proper healing. Many broken ankles can bruise and swell, and frequently elevating the foot may reduce these symptoms. The toes may become stiff, and wiggling them may help them to feel better. Crutches may be used to walk and complete daily tasks while taking the weight off of the feet. If you have fallen and have ankle pain, please consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and offer you the treatment option that is best for you.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Queen Mbanuzue, DPM from In Step Podiatry Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
• Swelling around the area
• Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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.

A twisted ankle is the most common cause of torn ligaments, also called ankle sprains. The foot rolls under and over-stretches the ligament that helps to stabilize the ankle joint. This can occur while stepping off a curb, landing on the foot wrong while walking or running, or playing sports where a lot of running and jumping are involved. Symptoms of an ankle sprain include pain, bruising, a loose feeling in the joint, and difficulty bearing weight. The incident may have generated a popping sound, and the ankle may begin to swell. The first way to deal with a sprained ankle is to cease the activity. Depending on the severity of the sprain, you may wish to see a medical professional, such as a podiatrist, as soon as possible. In the meantime wrapping the ankle to keep down the swelling, keeping it elevated, and applying ice is a good stopgap measure. It is exceedingly important to allow an ankle sprain to heal completely. If this is ignored, the chances are that the ankle will be re-injured, and sprains may become a chronic condition. For more information about an ankle sprain, please consult a podiatrist for an exam and long term treatment plan.  

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Queen Mbanuzue, DPM from In Step Podiatry Center. 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 Lanham, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

If your big toe is red, swollen, and radiating extreme pain, you may have developed a case of gout, which is a form of arthritis. Gout occurs when the body contains too much uric acid. This acid forms crystals that collect in the joints, commonly the first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint of the big toe. This results in inflammation that swells and reddens the skin around the joint. The pain usually starts in the morning and increases throughout the day. It can come on suddenly, and it can be quite severe. Gout also can cause stiffness in the MTP joint, which may make it difficult to walk. If gout is not treated immediately, it can become chronic and spread to other joints, such as the ankles, knees, fingers, and wrists. A podiatrist can prescribe medications and suggest lifestyle changes that can help to reduce the flare ups of gout. If you have been experiencing the symptoms of gout on a regular basis, it is wise to seek the help of a podiatrist immediately. 

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Queen Mbanuzue, DPM from In Step Podiatry Center. Our doctor 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 care needs.

Having an ingrown toenail is a common cause of toe pain. Most ingrown toenails are located on the big toe, resulting in the nail growing into the flesh surrounding it. This results in redness, swelling, and pain. In some cases, the area can become infected, which causes a discharge and pus to form. Experts recommend a few at-home methods to ease the pain and reduce the chances of infection. First soak the foot in warm, salty water to loosen the surrounding skin. Then thoroughly dry the foot and wear wide or open-toed shoes that do not press on the big toe. To prevent getting an ingrown toenail, it is recommended that your toenail be cut straight across and not too short. If the ingrown toenail has become infected or severely painful, it is a good idea to visit a podiatrist. This foot specialist can take measures to alleviate the pain, with the last resort of removing part or all of the toenail. Pain medication and antibiotics, in cases of infection. can also be prescribed by a podiatrist. 

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Queen Mbanuzue, DPM of In Step Podiatry Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

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.

Sesamoiditis is a particular kind of foot affliction in which the two small sesamoid bones located in the ball of the feet become inflamed and aggravated. Sometimes, individuals living with sesamoiditis may experience some kind of pain due to their condition. If the individual is prone to engage in activity that puts a significant amount of pressure on the balls of the feet, then pain from sesamoiditis is even more likely. Patients with sesamoiditis will often wonder how they can mitigate the pain caused by the condition. One potential option is to wear sesamoiditis insoles that are like pads for the feet. Some of these foot pads wrap around and support the ball of the foot. These insoles are useful because they can absorb shock in such a way that lessens the pain caused by sesamoiditis. Additionally, these pads can be helpful because they sometimes fit comfortably in the shoes one wears. If you have sesamoiditis, contact a podiatrist today to discuss the possibility of foot pads.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Queen Mbanuzue, DPM of In Step Podiatry Center. Our doctor will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

• Sudden increase in activity
• Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
• Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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.

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most widespread afflictions of the foot that primarily affects the plantar fascia. It occurs when this part of the foot becomes aggravated and inflamed. Plantar fasciitis has an interesting history which may be helpful in knowing to learn more about this ailment. The condition was first described in the year 1812 by a man named Wood. Wood attributed the condition to tuberculosis at the time. Over the years, plantar fasciitis has gone by different names. For example, it has sometimes been called painful heel syndrome or subcalcaneal pain. As time progressed and the field of podiatry developed, modern science learned more about plantar fasciitis. Today, it is one of the most common conditions that modern podiatrists are trained in identifying and treating. If you believe that you may have plantar fasciitis, contact a podiatrist today.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Queen Mbanuzue, DPM  from In Step Podiatry Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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.