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(410) 764-7044
6506 Reisterstown Road, Baltimore
1205 York Road, Lutherville
6305 Belair Road, Baltimore
7809 Wise Avenue, Dundalk

Same day emergency appointments

January 2023

The most common ankle problems, especially among athletes and runners, are sprains and strains. The ankle joint contains a variety of muscles, ligaments, and tendons that are subject to injury. Because the ankle sustains one and a half times the body weight with each step you take, and more than eight times the body’s weight when you run or jump, it is easy to see why it may be subject to injury. A sprain occurs when a ligament in the ankle is stretched beyond its limit, while a strain occurs when either a muscle or a tendon is overstretched or torn. Strains are more likely to be the result of overuse. A sprain can also be the result of overuse, but most often is caused by trauma, such as landing wrong on the foot and causing it to twist inward. This can be because of a misstep on a curb, or by stumbling during an athletic event. Whether it’s a sprain or a strain, if you have sustained an ankle injury that impedes your daily activities or causes extreme pain, please see a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options. 

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Plaza Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

  • Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
  • Ankle sprains
  • Broken ankles
  • Achilles tendinitis
  • Achilles tendon rupture
  • Stress fractures
  • Bursitis
  • Tarsal tunnel syndrome
  • Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

 

Read more about Various Causes of Ankle Pain
Tuesday, 24 January 2023 00:00

Shoes and Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a lesser-known condition of the foot among the general public. This condition occurs when pressure is applied to the nerves in the ankle, sometimes causing discomfort and pain. When an individual has a case of tarsal tunnel syndrome, there are a number of steps that they might consider taking to treat the condition or mitigate the pain. One of these remedies includes wearing special shoes that are designed to combat the pain caused by tarsal tunnel syndrome. If you suffer from this foot condition, you might consider wearing shoes that relieve foot pain by essentially absorbing shock caused by weight-bearing activities. Shoes that provide extra support to the foot are also ideal for some patients with tarsal tunnel syndrome. For example, shoes that have sufficient arch and heel cushioning can provide needed support to the foot. If you have tarsal tunnel syndrome, consider contacting a podiatrist who can help you address any concerns. Schedule an appointment today.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact one of our podiatrists of Plaza Podiatry. Our doctors 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 offices located in Baltimore, Lutherville, and Dundalk, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Treating Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Tuesday, 17 January 2023 00:00

Walking While Working

Studies have shown people who have jobs that require standing for long periods can benefit from incorporating small increments of walking throughout their day. The benefits may include increased energy and cognitive function, whereas stress and fatigue levels may decrease. Additionally, the appetite may be reduced when daily activity is pursued, and blood circulation is often increased. Research has been conducted on people who include walking outside as often as possible during their workday. The results have shown that people are generally happier when connecting with nature, which may help to improve work performance. It may also help to lower the risk of heart disease and expand opportunities to be creative. Walking has many positive aspects in strengthening all areas of the body, including the feet. If you would like to know why walking during work is good for the feet, please consult a podiatrist who can provide all the additional benefits as well as implement a routine that is best for you.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Plaza Podiatry. Our doctors 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 feel free to contact our offices located in Baltimore, Lutherville, and Dundalk, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about How to Handle a Long Work Day on Your Feet
Wednesday, 11 January 2023 00:00

Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?

Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

Tuesday, 10 January 2023 00:00

Ways to Pamper Your Feet

Most people forget how hard the feet work for them and do not give them the attention or care that they deserve. Usually, it takes a problem with the feet to get one’s attention. Tired and achy feet can benefit from reflexology, stretching, and pedicures, all of which should feel relaxing and soothing. Reflexology involves applying pressure with the hands to specific points on the feet with the goal of improving functioning of certain organs and glands. Gentle stretching of the feet can alleviate tension and strengthen muscles in the soles of the feet. In addition to making your toenails look pretty, pedicures can provide comfort in the form of massage, hot water soaks, and exfoliation. It is important to take care of the feet to get the most out of them. If you would like more suggestions for how you can properly care for your feet, see a podiatrist today.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Plaza Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

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

Read more about Everyday Foot Care
Tuesday, 03 January 2023 00:00

When Corns Become Serious

Many individuals not well-versed in afflictions of the foot might already be familiar with corns, one of the most common foot conditions that affect a wide variety of people. Importantly, corns can develop in an individual when layers of thickened skin emerge on the feet, particularly the toes or soles of the feet. Corns will sometimes develop in response to applied pressure that can come from a shoe rubbing up against the feet. It is critical to know when corns become especially serious. Corns can become dangerous when they become painful in some way. Additionally, individuals who suffer from diabetes may be at an increased risk of experiencing complications with corns. If this applies to you, you might consider receiving immediate health attention. Contact a podiatrist today for more information. 

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of Plaza Podiatry. Our doctors 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 doctors to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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

Read more about Everything You Need to Know About Corns
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