Items filtered by date: November 2022

The development of corns on the feet can be an annoyance for a wide variety of individuals across the country. Typically this condition develops in response to the concentration of intense pressure or friction on the foot. The corn itself is made of thick skin. Importantly, there are steps that you might consider taking in caring for your corns. For example, wearing the correct kind of footwear can have a significant impact on the extent to which the corns are being taken care of. By wearing shoes that are ill-fitting, an individual can aggravate the corns. Instead, one might think about wearing shoes that provide the feet with sufficient space to move about in freely. Thus, by choosing to wear the right kind of shoes, a person can sufficiently guard against both the formation and aggravation of corns. If you think that you might have corns, contact a podiatrist today to learn more about what can be done to mitigate and treat the condition. 

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Richard Silverstein of Union Foot Care. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:

• Well-fitting socks
• Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
• Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctor to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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

A fracture is a break in any bone of the foot, and there are about 26 of them. Fractures of the foot come in several varieties. First is a displacement fracture, in which a gap develops between the ends of broken bone. A stress fracture, or non-displacement fracture, is a hairline crack in the bone. A pathological fracture, which can be caused by an underlying condition like osteoporosis, may cause a break even without a high level of force. Finally, a compound fracture occurs when a bone breaks through the skin and protrudes to cause an open wound. For this type of fracture, immediate medical attention is suggested. You can help prevent fractures in the foot by walking or running on even surfaces. If you are on a trail, it is essential to check the ground in front of you and keep a pace that lets you adjust to sudden changes in terrain. Footwear that fits properly and is geared specifically for the activity, is extremely helpful in preventing fractures. Avoid participation in activities for which you have inadequate training. Finally, experts suggest reducing the amount of time spent in high heels, which can affect stability and increase the risk of injury. For more information on fractures of the feet, please consult a podiatrist. 

Foot and ankle trauma is common among athletes and the elderly. If you have concerns that you may have experienced trauma to the foot and ankle, consult with Dr. Richard Silverstein from Union Foot Care. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Foot and ankle trauma cover a range of injuries all over the foot; common injuries include:

• Broken bones
• Muscle strains
• Injuries to the tendons and ligaments
• Stress fractures

Symptoms

Symptoms of foot and ankle injuries vary depending on the injury, but more common ones include:

• Bruising
• Inflammation/ Swelling
• Pain

Diagnosis

To properly diagnose the exact type of injury, podiatrists will conduct a number of different tests. Some of these include sensation and visual tests, X-rays, and MRIs. Medical and family histories will also be taken into account.

Treatment

Once the injury has been diagnosed, the podiatrist can than offer the best treatment options for you. In less severe cases, rest and keeping pressure off the foot may be all that’s necessary. Orthotics, such as a specially made shoes, or immobilization devices, like splints or casts, may be deemed necessary. Finally, if the injury is severe enough, surgery may be necessary.

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

The feet endure hundreds of times the body weight of an individual, occurring several times per day. The ankle is responsible for weight bearing, in addition to absorbing the shock, the body endures while walking and running. One of the components of the ankle is called the tarsal tunnel, and the tibial nerve is located inside this tunnel. The foot condition that is known as tarsal tunnel syndrome occurs when the tibial nerve becomes inflamed and compressed, and can cause difficulty in walking. This condition may be prone to people who have flat feet, as a result of abnormal foot structure. Additionally, a tumor or cyst that has developed in this part of the foot may place pressure on the nerve, possibly causing tarsal tunnel syndrome to develop. Common symptoms patients may experience may consist of a burning sensation along the inside of the ankle, and can radiate to the entire foot. Relief may be found when the affected foot is elevated, and walking can temporarily subside. Effective prevention methods may include performing specific stretches that can strengthen the ankle, in addition to warming up and cooling down before and after running. Tarsal tunnel syndrome is treated by a podiatrist, and it is suggested that you confer with this type of doctor who can offer you the correct treatment options.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Dr. Richard Silverstein of Union Foot Care. 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 Havre de Grace, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

As a car gets older, its parts start to wear out. This is also true with the feet. Foot problems begin to mount as one ages. This can be attributed to wear and tear, along with a number of other factors. The skin on the feet, along with other parts of the body, begins to lose its elasticity, creating an environment for infections or injuries. The fatty heel pad thins out, causing a loss of cushioning that may increase the likelihood of heel pain. Tendons and ligaments can become looser, leaving one open to strains and sprains. Further, the size of the foot may change as the feet naturally widen with age. It’s suggested that older adults check their shoe size before purchasing new footwear. Shoes that are too tight can invite foot and toe maladies. Finally, certain medical and health conditions, such as diabetes, obesity, and arthritis can affect the circulation of blood to the lower legs, feet, and toes. This can develop into neuropathy, which if not monitored, can lead to serious infections. As an older adult, it is a good idea to make an appointment with a podiatrist to check out the health of your feet.  

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Richard Silverstein from Union Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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

One of the most common forms of heel pain that a podiatrist will encounter in patients is known as plantar fasciitis, a condition where the plantar fascia becomes inflamed. Many physical activities and sports may exacerbate this condition, particularly if it is high impact. However, in some respects, swimming may seem to be a helpful alternative for those with plantar fasciitis. Swimming is particularly low impact, enabling the athlete to burn calories while often not placing high pressure on the feet. It is important to note, however, that if someone has plantar fasciitis, it is possible that they still may experience pain when engaging in this activity. Someone with a particularly bad case of plantar fasciitis may feel pain if they try to push off of the wall with their feet when swimming. Schedule an appointment today with a podiatrist to learn more about plantar fasciitis.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Richard Silverstein from Union Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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

One of the most common forms of heel pain that a podiatrist will encounter in patients is known as plantar fasciitis, a condition where the plantar fascia becomes inflamed. Many physical activities and sports may exacerbate this condition, particularly if it is high impact. However, in some respects, swimming may seem to be a helpful alternative for those with plantar fasciitis. Swimming is particularly low impact, enabling the athlete to burn calories while often not placing high pressure on the feet. It is important to note, however, that if someone has plantar fasciitis, it is possible that they still may experience pain when engaging in this activity. Someone with a particularly bad case of plantar fasciitis may feel pain if they try to push off of the wall with their feet when swimming. Schedule an appointment today with a podiatrist to learn more about plantar fasciitis.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Richard Silverstein from Union Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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