Understanding Bunions: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments A bunion, medically known as hallux abductovalgus or hallux valgus, is a deformity characterized by the outward turning of the first and second metatarsals and the inward-pointing of the big toe. This misalignment creates a noticeable bump on the side of the foot and can lead to significant foot pain, especially when aggravated by flat feet or inappropriate footwear. Non-Surgical Bunion Treatments At Family Podiatry of Maryland, we emphasize conservative bunion treatment options tailored to individual needs. For those suffering from foot ..read more

Diabetes Doesn’t Have To Hurt 1. Are you one of more than 37 million of Americans living with diabetes? If so, you need to know that feet are one of the most affected parts of your body. We can help you take control and avoid complications. #NDAM #DiabetesAwarenessMonth #DiabetesDoesntHavetoHurt 2. Foot pain is never normal. Diabetes puts you at risk for nerve damage, infections, and amputation. Call us at the first sign of pain or any changes in the condition of your feet. #NDAM #DiabetesAwarenessMonth #DiabetesDoesntHavetoHurt 3. Did you know that an annual diabetic foot exam is vital to ma ..read more

What are Orthotics (also known as Orthoses) Orthotics, also called orthoses, are devices that are worn to correct foot and ankle problems without surgery. Most people think of shoe inserts or “arch supports” when they hear the word orthotics, but they can include devices such as foot pads, shoe inserts, ankle and foot orthoses and similar items. They are designed to fit your feet more efficiently than over-the-counter (OTC) arch supports and balance the biomechanical inadequacies of your feet and ankles. Most people that use orthotics agree that they are more comfortable than shoes withou ..read more

Did you know that nearly a quarter of the patients between the ages of 45 and 64 that are seen by a podiatrist complain of heel pain?  Heel pain affects approximately 1 percent of the U.S. population. The causes of heel pain vary depending on a person’s level of activity, foot type, and biomechanics.  However, when discussing heel pain it is important to differentiate pain that is located at the back of the heel which is called Achilles Tendinitis; from pain that is located at the bottom of the heel, which is called Plantar Fasciitis.   There are differential diagnoses that one ..read more

In the treatment of foot conditions this topic comes up often.  Shoe selection is so important, whether one is looking for support, realignment, cushion or stability.  A person needs to consider his/her foot type and the needs that their foot type calls for when selecting footwear for various activities. (I have another blog on the topic of Finding the Right Shoes for Your Foot Type on this website). In this section, I will focus on the benefit and disadvantage of choosing either heel drop for shoes. What Is a Heel Drop in Shoes? A low heel drop in shoes means the heel part of the sh ..read more

The following article are taken from the APMA.org website. The feet and ankles work together to provide support and mobility to the body. A foot or ankle sprain is a soft tissue injury. Most often, a sprain occurs when an injury pulls, stretches, or tears the ligaments that connect bone to bone. A fracture is actually a break in the bone. Causes  Injuries are the most common causes of foot and ankle sprains and fractures. Many fractures and sprains occur during sports. Football players are particularly vulnerable to foot and ankle sprains and fractures. Basketball players are prone to an ..read more

The Root Causes to Bunions Bunions or hallux abductovalgus is a foot deformity.  It arises from a hereditary trait.  Certain foot type, like flat feet, can accelerate the deformity.  In that particular scenario, muscle imbalance and the biomechanics of the feet can lead to the advancement of the deformity. Why Do Bunions Hurt So Much? Bunions occur when the angle between the first and second metatarsals widen, causing the width of the feet to be wider.  When it occurs at the fifth metatarsal from the fourth metatarsal, it is called a bunionette, or a Tailor’s bunion.  ..read more

I often see this condition in my practice and the question arises frequently enough for me to blog about it.  Let’s discuss the similarity between the “seeded” corn and a callus before we discuss their differences.  They are both thickened skin.  They occur primarily on the bottom of the feet.  They do inflict pain as they become thicker in layers.  And they do require routine shaving to get relief. PorokeratosisPorokeratosisPorokeratosis So, what characteristics make the “seeded” corn and callus different?  Well, let’s take the subject of the “seeded” corn first ..read more

During this difficult time of stay-at-home mandate due to the COVID-19 virus, many people are stressed and feeling anxious.  One of the best stress-relieving activities that you can do as a family is to get yourself outdoors.  Walking or running does not require a gym access.  And who knows when the local gym will reopen.  When you start your walking or running regimen, remember to condition yourself by stretching before and after your activity.  Loosen up those muscles fibers will prevent cramps.  Wear the appropriate clothing according to the weather.  Brea ..read more

On March 31, 2020, Family Podiatry of Maryland consolidated or closed several locations in light of the coronavirus pandemic.  Thanks to the efforts of local, state and federal government and the cooperation and sacrifices of Marylanders who stayed home and practiced social distancing, the state is taking steps to reopen.  Similarly, we are taking steps to return to normal business operations, but we want to do so in a way that is safe and protects your health and well-being and that of our staff.  Over the course of the next few weeks we will expand office hours and surgical pr ..read more