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Tuesday, 14 May 2024 00:00

Effective Foot Stretches and Their Benefits

Foot stretches offer a simple yet powerful way to improve flexibility, relieve tension, and prevent injuries. One effective stretch is the toe stretch, where you sit back on your heels, gently pressing your toes into the ground to stretch the top of the foot. Another beneficial stretch is the calf stretch, achieved by placing hands on a wall, stepping one foot back, and pressing the heel into the ground while keeping the back leg straight. Additionally, the plantar fascia stretch targets the sole of the foot, as you sit with one leg crossed over the other, gently pulling your toes back towards the shin. These stretches can alleviate discomfort caused by conditions like plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis, while also enhancing overall foot mobility and function. Incorporating these stretches into your daily routine, especially before and after physical activity. If you are interested in learning more about specific foot stretches and how they can help relieve foot pain, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist.

Why Stretching Is Important for Your Feet

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Julie Jurd-Sadler, DPM from Progressive Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first to determine if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

  • Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
  • Similar to the previous exercise, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
  • Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
  • Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising to ice and rest the foot. It is advised that you then see a podiatrist for help.

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

Read more about How to Stretch Your Feet
Tuesday, 07 May 2024 00:00

What Causes Flat Feet?

Flat feet, or fallen arches, are a common foot condition where the arches of the feet collapse, resulting in the entire sole of the foot making contact with the ground. Understanding the various causes, including hereditary conditions such as Ehler-Danlos syndrome and Marfan syndrome, may shed light on this condition's complexity. Genetics can influence the structure and alignment of the foot's bones, tendons, and ligaments. Individuals with a family history of flat feet are more likely to inherit the trait, predisposing them to this condition from birth. Additionally, certain medical conditions such as arthritis, obesity, and diabetes can contribute to the weakening of the foot's supportive structures, leading to flat feet over time. Furthermore, injury or trauma to the foot, prolonged standing or walking on hard surfaces, and wearing unsupportive footwear can exacerbate the condition. If you have flat feet, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief and treatment methods.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Julie Jurd-Sadler, DPM from Progressive Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

  • Pain around the heel or arch area
  • Trouble standing on the tip toe
  • Swelling around the inside of the ankle
  • Flat look to one or both feet
  • Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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

Read more about Flat Feet
Friday, 03 May 2024 00:00

Are You Suffering From Ingrown Toenails?

If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!

Tuesday, 30 April 2024 00:00

Recognizing Symptoms of Plantar Fibroma

Plantar fibroma, a benign tissue growth that develops on the bottom of the foot, can cause discomfort and affect mobility. Recognizing the symptoms of plantar fibroma is essential for early diagnosis and effective management. One common symptom is the presence of a firm, palpable nodule or lump in the arch or midfoot region. This nodule may vary in size and can be tender to the touch, causing pain or discomfort, especially when standing or walking. Some individuals may also experience a sensation of pressure or tightness in the affected area, particularly when wearing tight or constrictive footwear. As the plantar fibroma progresses, it may lead to changes in foot structure and function, such as difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot or altered gait patterns. If left untreated, plantar fibromas can worsen over time, potentially causing chronic pain and interfering with daily activities. If you have noticed a lump on the sole of your foot, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.

A plantar fibroma may disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Julie Jurd-Sadler, DPM of Progressive Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Plantar Fibroma

A plantar fibroma is a fibrous knot in the arch of the foot. It is embedded in the plantar fascia which is a band of tissue that extends from the heel to the toes along the bottom of the foot. There can be multiple plantar fibromas in the feet at the same time. There are no known causes for this condition. If you have a plantar fibroma, there will be a bump in the arch of your foot that cannot be missed. Any associated pain is most often due to a shoe rubbing against the nodule. Non-surgical options, such as steroid injections, physical therapy, and orthotics should be tried first. Surgery is a last resort and is the only thing that will remove a plantar fibroma entirely. Consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and to determine the treatment regimen that is right for you.

What Causes a Plantar Fibroma?

While there are no specific causes identified, a plantar fibroma can possibly come from genetic predisposition or the formation of scar tissue that forms from healing the tears in the plantar fascia.

What Are the Symptoms of a Plantar Fibroma?

There will be a noticeable lump in the arch of the foot that may or may not cause pain. If pain is felt, it is typically because a shoe is rubbing up against the lump or when walking or standing barefoot.

Treatment and Prevention

A plantar fibroma will not disappear without treatment, but it can get smaller and be a non-issue. If pain persists, a podiatrist examines the foot and when the arch of the foot is pressed, pain can be felt down to the toes. An MRI or biopsy might be performed to help diagnose or evaluate the plantar fibroma. The following non-surgical options are generally enough to reduce the size and pain of these nodules:

  • Steroid injections
  • Orthotics
  • Physical therapy to help apply anti-inflammatory creams on the bump 

Surgery is considered if the mass increases in size and the patient continues to feel pain after non-surgical methods are tried.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Ijamsville and Mouth Airy, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Plantar Fibroma
Tuesday, 23 April 2024 00:00

Understanding What Plantar Fasciitis Is

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel bone to the toes. This condition typically manifests as heel pain, particularly with the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest, which can gradually worsen throughout the day. The precise cause of plantar fasciitis is not always clear, but it often results from repetitive strain or excessive stress on the plantar fascia. Factors contributing to the development of plantar fasciitis include overuse from activities such as running, walking long distances, or standing for extended periods. Additionally, certain risk factors like obesity, high arches, flat feet, or tight calf muscles can increase the likelihood of developing plantar fasciitis. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose plantar fasciitis, and offer an appropriate treatment plan.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Julie Jurd-Sadler, DPM  from Progressive Podiatry. 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 offices located in Ijamsville and Mouth Airy, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Plantar Fasciitis
Tuesday, 16 April 2024 00:00

Causes and Nature of Morton's Neuroma

Morton's neuroma, a common foot condition, occurs when a nerve in the ball of the foot becomes thickened and inflamed, leading to pain and discomfort. This condition typically affects the area between the third and fourth toes but can also occur between other toes. The exact cause of Morton's neuroma is not always clear, but it often develops due to repetitive stress or irritation on the nerve, such as wearing tight or high-heeled shoes that compress the forefoot. Activities that involve repetitive pressure on the ball of the foot, such as running or participating in high-impact sports, can also contribute to the development of Morton's neuroma. Additionally, foot deformities like bunions, hammertoes, or flat feet may increase the risk. Understanding the underlying causes of Morton's neuroma is important for effective management and prevention strategies, which may include wearing supportive footwear, using orthotic inserts, and avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat Morton’s neuroma.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Julie Jurd-Sadler, DPM of Progressive Podiatry. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

  • Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
  • Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
  • Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

Read more about Morton's Neuroma
Tuesday, 09 April 2024 00:00

Understanding Foot Changes During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is marked by numerous changes in the body, including the feet. One notable alteration is the increase in shoe size experienced by many expectant mothers. This change occurs due to hormonal fluctuations and the body's natural tendency to retain fluids, which leads to swelling in the feet and ankles. Consequently, women may find that their usual shoe size feels snug or uncomfortable during pregnancy, necessitating the need for larger footwear to accommodate the swelling. Additionally, some pregnant individuals may encounter itching and redness on the soles of their feet, a condition known as pruritus gravidarum. This symptom can arise due to heightened blood circulation, hormonal changes, or skin stretching, causing discomfort and irritation. While these foot changes are a normal part of pregnancy, expectant mothers need to prioritize foot health by wearing supportive footwear, practicing gentle foot exercises, and elevating the feet to reduce swelling. Consulting with a podiatrist can also guide in managing foot discomfort and ensuring a smooth pregnancy journey. If you are seeking relief from foot conditions developed during pregnancy, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Julie Jurd-Sadler, DPM from Progressive Podiatry. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

  • Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
  • Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
  • Wear shoes with good arch support
  • Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
  • Elevate feet if you experience swelling
  • Massage your feet
  • Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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

Read more about Foot Care for Pregnant Women
Wednesday, 03 April 2024 00:00

Are Bunions Affecting Your Everyday Life?

Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.

Tuesday, 02 April 2024 00:00

The Definition of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, though less commonly known than other foot conditions, can cause significant discomfort and impairment for those affected. Similar to carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist, tarsal tunnel syndrome involves compression of the posterior tibial nerve as it passes through a narrow space in the ankle called the tarsal tunnel. This compression can result from various factors, including injury, inflammation, or underlying conditions like arthritis or diabetes. Symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome may include burning pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness in the foot and ankle, often worsened by prolonged standing or walking. Left untreated, tarsal tunnel syndrome can lead to permanent nerve damage and functional limitations. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough physical examination, along with imaging studies like MRI or nerve conduction tests. Early recognition and intervention are critical for managing tarsal tunnel syndrome effectively and minimizing long-term consequences. If you have any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can offer you effective treatment solutions.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Julie Jurd-Sadler, DPM of Progressive Podiatry. 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 offices located in Ijamsville and Mouth Airy, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Treating Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Tuesday, 26 March 2024 00:00

The Necessity and Benefits of Hammertoe Surgery

Hammertoe, a deformity characterized by an abnormal bending of the toe joint, can lead to discomfort, difficulty walking, and even pain during daily activities. While many cases of hammertoe can be managed with conservative measures such as padding, shoe modifications, and orthotic devices, surgery may be necessary in certain instances. Hammertoe surgery becomes essential when the condition progresses to a point where conservative treatments no longer provide relief or when the deformity interferes significantly with mobility and quality of life. During surgery, the surgeon may release tight tendons, reposition bones, or remove damaged tissue to straighten and realign the affected toe. Although surgery involves risks like any medical procedure, it can offer long-term relief and improve functionality for individuals suffering from severe hammertoe deformities. If you are living with hammertoe, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can determine if surgery is the correct choice for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Julie Jurd-Sadler, DPM of Progressive Podiatry. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

  • Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
  • Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
  • Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

  • Bunionectomy for painful bunions
  • Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
  • Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Read more about Foot Surgery
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