Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) - Podiatrist in Annapolis and Stevensville, MD - John DeLeonibus, DPM

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Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) - Podiatrist Annapolis and Stevensville, MD - John DeLeonibus, DPM

 

Dr. John DeLeonibus of Annapolis Foot and Ankle Center discusses the symptoms, causes and treatment for Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD).

 

 

http://www.annapolisfootandanklecenter.com

 

Peripheral Arterial Disease (P.A.D) is a serious circulatory condition where clogged or narrowed arteries cause poor circulation to the arms, legs, brain or kidneys. It occurs most often in the lower extremities, causing decreased blood flow to the legs and feet. Just like buildup in the heart, clogged arteries in the lower extremities may cause stroke or heart attack.

 

For patients with increased risk factors, including those being 50 years of age or older with a history of diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol or smoking, being informed about this arterial disease is especially essential. Leg pain and discoloration of the toes or feet are possible symptoms of P.A.D. It is important to note, however, that many people with P.A.D. do not experience any symptoms. Testing can help determine if you have P.A.D. and whether medical or surgical treatment is necessary.

 

 

Visit our website: http://www.annapolisfootandanklecenter.com

 

Morton’s Neuroma - Podiatrist - Annapolis and Stevensville, MD - Eric Harmelin, DPM

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Morton’s Neuroma - Podiatrist in Annapolis and Stevensville, MD - Eric Harmelin, DPM

 

Dr. Eric Harmelin of Annapolis Foot and Ankle Center discusses the symptoms, causes and treatment for Morton’s Neuroma.

 

http://www.annapolisfootandanklecenter.com

 

A neuroma is an enlarged, benign growth of nerves, most commonly between the third and fourth toes. Neuromas are caused by tissue rubbing against and irritating the nerves. Pressure from poorly fitting shoes or an abnormal bone structure can also lead to this condition. Symptoms may include sensations of thickness, burning, numbness, tingling, or pain in the ball of the foot. Treatments generally include wearing corrective shoes or orthotics and/or cortisone injections. In severe cases, surgical removal of the growth may be necessary.

 

Morton's neuroma is a thickening of tissues around the nerve that leads to the toes. Morton's neuroma usually develops between the third and fourth toes in response to irritation, such as that caused by wearing high-heeled or narrow shoes, or from trauma. Symptoms may include a burning pain that radiates from the ball of the foot to the toes or numbness in the toes. Conservative treatments usually resolve the pain or progressions of the condition, and range from wearing roomier, lower-heeled footwear or using orthotics to reduce the pressure on the nerve, to injections of cortosteroid medication to reduce swelling and inflammation.

 

Visit our website: http://www.annapolisfootandanklecenter.com

Ingrown Toenails - Podiatrist in Annapolis and Stevensville, MD - Eric Harmelin, DPM

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Ingrown Toenails - Podiatrist in Annapolis and Stevensville, MD - Eric Harmelin, DPM

Dr. Eric Harmelin of Annapolis Foot and Ankle Center discusses the symptoms, causes and treatment for ingrown toenails.

http://www.annapolisfootandanklecenter.com

Ingrown toenails, also known as onychocryptosis, is usually caused by trimming toenails too short, particularly on the sides of the big toes. They may also be caused by shoe pressure (from shoes that are too tight or short), injury, fungus infection, heredity, or poor foot structure. Ingrown toenails occur when the corners or sides of the toenail dig into the skin, often causing infection. A common ailment, ingrown toenails can be painful. Ingrown toenails start out hard, swollen, and tender. Left untreated, they may become sore, red, and infected and the skin may start to grow over the ingrown toenail.

In most cases, treating ingrown toenails is simple: soak the foot in warm, soapy water several times each day. Avoid wearing tight shoes or socks. Antibiotics are sometimes prescribed if an infection is present. Note: Please consult your physician before taking any medications. In severe cases, if an acute infection occurs, surgical removal of part of the ingrown toenail may be needed. Known as partial nail plate avulsion, the procedure involves injecting the toe with an anesthetic and cutting out the ingrown part of the toenail.

Visit our website: http://www.annapolisfootandanklecenter.com

 

Diabetic Foot Care - Podiatrist - Annapolis and Stevensville, MD - Eric Harmelin, DPM

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Diabetic Foot Care - Podiatrist - Annapolis and Stevensville, MD - Eric Harmelin, DPM

Dr. Eric Harmelin of Annapolis Foot and Ankle Center discusses why diabetics must come in for a comprehensive foot exam to avoid the complications of diabetes.

http://www.annapolisfootandanklecenter.com

Foot problems are a big risk in diabetics. Diabetics must constantly monitor their feet or face severe consequences, including amputation.

With a diabetic foot, a wound as small as a blister from wearing a shoe that's too tight can cause a lot of damage. Diabetes decreases blood flow, so injuries are slow to heal. When your wound is not healing, it's at risk for infection. As a diabetic, your infections spread quickly. If you have diabetes, you should inspect your feet every day. Look for puncture wounds, bruises, pressure areas, redness, warmth, blisters, ulcers, scratches, cuts and nail problems. Get someone to help you, or use a mirror.

When your feet become numb, they are at risk for becoming deformed. One way this happens is through ulcers. Open sores may become infected. Another way is the bone condition Charcot (pronounced "sharko") foot. This is one of the most serious foot problems you can face. It warps the shape of your foot when your bones fracture and disintegrate, and yet you continue to walk on it because it doesn't hurt. Diabetic foot ulcers and early phases of Charcot fractures can be treated with a total contact cast.

The shape of your foot molds the cast. It lets your ulcer heal by distributing weight and relieving pressure. If you have Charcot foot, the cast controls your foot's movement and supports its contours if you don't put any weight on it. To use a total contact cast, you need good blood flow in your foot. The cast is changed every week or two until your foot heals. A custom-walking boot is another way to treat your Charcot foot. It supports the foot until all the swelling goes down, which can take as long as a year. You should keep from putting your weight on the Charcot foot. Surgery is considered if your deformity is too severe for a brace or shoe.

Visit our website: http://www.annapolisfootandanklecenter.com

 

Podiatrist in Annapolis, MD - James Mckee, DPM

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Podiatrist in Annapolis, MD - James Mckee, DPM

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Meet Dr. James McKee of the Podiatry Group of Annapolis as he discusses foot and ankle care.

http://www.podiatrygroup.us

At Podiatry Group of Annapolis, P.A., we believe that a doctor and patient become a team for treating an individual's feet. Our physicians spend most of their time listening to understand your concerns and responding with the best treatment options for you. With the help of our professional staff, they also follow up to make sure that generally pain is relieved, problems are resolved and your health improves.

We also want our patients to be informed about podiatric problems and treatments, because informed patients make better decisions about their health and well being. That is why we've included an extensive section on this web site covering the full array of topics associated with podiatry and podiatric diagnoses and treatments. We encourage you to look through these pages whenever you have an interest or concern about your feet.

We also know that convenience in the Annapolis area is important to your selection of a podiatrist. In these web pages you'll find information about Podiatry Group of Annapolis, P.A.'s office, including our Annapolis location, maps, directions, hours, insurance policies and appointment scheduling. Please feel free to contact us with any questions you have or to request an appointment. We hope you'll find our practice offers the accessibility and personal commitment you look for from a physician.

Visit our website: http://www.podiatrygroup.us

Sports Injuries to the Foot - Podiatrist in Annapolis, MD

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Sports Injuries to the Foot - Podiatrist in Annapolis, MD

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Dr. James McKee, Podiatrist in Annapolis, Maryland discusses foot treatments for sports injuries.

http://www.podiatrygroup.us

Many sports are hard on the feet because of quick repetitive movements, constricting footwear, and/or increased exposure to injury or trauma. Following is a brief overview of some of the most common injuries that result from particular sports.

Martial Arts and Kick Boxing

Injuries commonly seen as a result of martial arts and kick boxing include plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, sesamoiditis, and ankle sprains. Stretching is recommended to help prevent injury; specifically, a minimum of 15 minutes of stretching before performing any kicking or punching.

Aerobics

Impact forces from aerobics can reach up to six times the force of gravity, which is transmitted to each of the 26 bones in the foot. That is why proper shoes are crucial to successful, injury-free aerobics. Shoes should provide sufficient cushioning and shock absorption to compensate for pressure on the foot many times greater than found in walking. They must also have good medial-lateral stability.

Team Sports

Activities such as football, baseball, basketball, soccer, field hockey, and lacrosse often lead to ankle injuries as a result of play on artificial surfaces, improper footwear, and/or inadequate stretching.

Visit our website: http://www.podiatrygroup.us

 

Flat Feet in Children - Podiatrist in Annapolis, MD

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Pediatric patient discusses her foot treatment for flat feet received by Dr. James McKee.

http://www.podiatrygroup.us

Children with strong, healthy feet avoid many kinds of lower extremity problems later in life. That's why it is important to inspect your children's feet periodically.

Infants

The size and shape of your baby's feet change quickly during their first year. Because a baby's feet are flexible, too much pressure or strain can affect the shape of their feet. It's important to allow baby to kick and stretch their feet freely. Also, make sure shoes and socks do not squeeze the toes.

Toddlers

Do not to force a toddler to walk before s/he is ready. Once walking begins, watch the toddler's gait. Many toddlers have a pigeon-toe gait, which is normal. Some initially learn to walk landing on their toes instead of their heels. Most children outgrow both these problems. But other conditions detected early can be treated more easily.

When Foot Care Is Needed

To help with flatfeet, special shoes or orthotics may be prescribed. To correct mild in-toeing or out-toeing, your toddler may need to sit in a different position while playing or watching TV. If your child's feet turn in or out a lot, corrective shoes, splints, or night braces may be prescribed.

The foot's bone structure is well-formed by the time your child reaches age 7 or 8, but if a growth plate (the area where bone growth begins) is injured, the damaged plate may cause the bone to grow oddly. With a doctor's care, however, the risk of future bone problems is reduced.

Remember to check your child's shoe size often. Make sure there is space between the toes and the end of the shoe and that the shoes are roomy enough to allow the toes to move freely. Don't let your child wear hand-me-downs shoes.

Visit our website: http://www.podiatrygroup.us

Ingrown Toenails - Podiatrist in Annapolis, MD

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Ingrown Toenail Treatment - Podiatrist in Annapolis, MD

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Patient discusses treatment received by Dr. James McKee for an ingrown toenail.

http://www.podiatrygroup.us

Ingrown toenails, also known as onychocryptosis, is usually caused by trimming toenails too short, particularly on the sides of the big toes. They may also be caused by shoe pressure (from shoes that are too tight or short), injury, fungus infection, heredity, or poor foot structure. Ingrown toenails occur when the corners or sides of the toenail dig into the skin, often causing infection. A common ailment, ingrown toenails can be painful. Ingrown toenails start out hard, swollen, and tender. Left untreated, they may become sore, red, and infected and the skin may start to grow over the ingrown toenail.

In most cases, treating ingrown toenails is simple: soak the foot in warm, soapy water several times each day. Avoid wearing tight shoes or socks. Antibiotics are sometimes prescribed if an infection is present. Note: Please consult your physician before taking any medications. In severe cases, if an acute infection occurs, surgical removal of part of the ingrown toenail may be needed. Known as partial nail plate avulsion, the procedure involves injecting the toe with an anesthetic and cutting out the ingrown part of the toenail.

Ingrown toenails can be prevented by:

•Trimming toenails straight across with no rounded corners.

•Ensuring that shoes and socks are not too tight.

•Keeping feet clean at all times.

Ingrown Toenails - Podiatrist in Annapolis, MD

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Ingrown Toenails - Podiatry in Annapolis, MD

Dr. James McKee discusses the symptoms, causes and treatment for ingrown toenails.

http://www.podiatrygroup.us

Ingrown toenails, also known as onychocryptosis, is usually caused by trimming toenails too short, particularly on the sides of the big toes. They may also be caused by shoe pressure (from shoes that are too tight or short), injury, fungus infection, heredity, or poor foot structure. Ingrown toenails occur when the corners or sides of the toenail dig into the skin, often causing infection. A common ailment, ingrown toenails can be painful. Ingrown toenails start out hard, swollen, and tender. Left untreated, they may become sore, red, and infected and the skin may start to grow over the ingrown toenail.

In most cases, treating ingrown toenails is simple: soak the foot in warm, soapy water several times each day. Avoid wearing tight shoes or socks. Antibiotics are sometimes prescribed if an infection is present. Note: Please consult your physician before taking any medications. In severe cases, if an acute infection occurs, surgical removal of part of the ingrown toenail may be needed. Known as partial nail plate avulsion, the procedure involves injecting the toe with an anesthetic and cutting out the ingrown part of the toenail.

Ingrown toenails can be prevented by:

•Trimming toenails straight across with no rounded corners.

•Ensuring that shoes and socks are not too tight.

•Keeping feet clean at all times.

 

Bursitis and Osteoarthritis Patient - Podiatrist in Annapolis, MD

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Bursitis and Osteoarthritis Patient - Podiatrist in Annapolis, MD  

Patient discusses treatment received by Dr. James McKee for bursitis and osteoarthritis.

http://www.podiatrygroup.us

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. It is frequently called degenerative joint disease or wear and tear arthritis. Aging usually brings on a breakdown in cartilage, and pain gets progressively more severe. Dull, throbbing nighttime pain is characteristic, and may be accompanied by muscle weakness or deterioration.  Many of these symptoms can be relieved with rest. Overweight people are particularly susceptible to osteoarthritis. The additional weight contributes to the deterioration of cartilage and the development of bone spurs.

Visit our website: http://www.podiatrygroup.us

Heel Spur Patient - Podiatrist in Annapolis, MD

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Heel Pain Treatment – Podiatrist in Annapolis, MD

Patient discusses care received by Dr. James McKee for his heel spur.

http://www.podiatrygroup.us

Plantar fasciitis is the term commonly used to refer to heel and arch pain traced to an inflammation on the bottom of the foot. More specifically, plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the connective tissue, called plantar fascia, that stretches from the base of the toes, across the arch of the foot, to the point at which it inserts into the heel bone. Overpronation is the most common cause of plantar fasciitis. As the foot rolls inward excessively when walking, it flattens the foot, lengthens the arch, and puts added tension on the plantar fascia. Over time, this causes inflammation.

Also known as heel spur syndrome, the condition is often successfully treated with conservative measures, such as the use of anti-inflammatory medications, ice packs, stretching exercises, orthotic devices, and physical therapy. Note: Please consult your physician before taking any medications. In persistent cases, Extracorporeal Shock Wave Treatment (ESWT) may be used to treat the heel pain.

Heel Pain Treatment - Podiatrist in Annapolis, MD

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Heel Pain Treatment - Podiatrist in Annapolis, MD

Dr. James McKee discusses the symptoms, causes and treatments for heel pain (plantar fasciitis).

http://www.podiatrygroup.us

Plantar fasciitis is the term commonly used to refer to heel and arch pain traced to an inflammation on the bottom of the foot. More specifically, plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the connective tissue, called plantar fascia, that stretches from the base of the toes, across the arch of the foot, to the point at which it inserts into the heel bone. Overpronation is the most common cause of plantar fasciitis. As the foot rolls inward excessively when walking, it flattens the foot, lengthens the arch, and puts added tension on the plantar fascia. Over time, this causes inflammation.

Also known as heel spur syndrome, the condition is often successfully treated with conservative measures, such as the use of anti-inflammatory medications, ice packs, stretching exercises, orthotic devices, and physical therapy. Note: Please consult your physician before taking any medications. In persistent cases, Extracorporeal Shock Wave Treatment (ESWT) may be used to treat the heel pain.

Visit our website: http://www.podiatrygroup.us

Gout Patient Discusses Care Received at the Podiatry Group of Annapolis

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What Causes Gout? - Podiatry Group of Annapolis Maryland

Gout patient discusses care received at the Podiatry Group of Annapolis by Dr. James McKee.

http://www.podiatrygroup.us

Gout (also known as gouty arthritis) is a condition caused by a buildup of the salts of uric acid (a normal byproduct of the diet) in the joints. A single big toe joint is the most commonly affected area, possibly because it is subject to so much pressure in walking. Attacks of gouty arthritis are extremely painful. Men are more likely to be afflicted than women. Diets heavy in red meat, rich sauces, shellfish, and brandy have been linked to gout. However, other protein compounds in foods, such as lentils and beans, may play a role.

The main symptom of gout is waking up in the middle of the night with an acute throbbing pain in the big toe, which is swollen. The pain lasts for around three or four hours and then subsides. However, pain in the same toe usually returns within a few months.

Gout can be controlled by with prescription medications and diet. Note: Please consult with your physician before taking any medications. The application of ice or cooling lotions helps alleviate pain and swelling during an acute phase. In some cases, specially-made shoes are prescribed to relieve the pain associated with gout.

Visit our website: http://www.podiatrygroup.us

Diabetic Feet - Podiatrist in Annapolis, MD

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Diabetes and Foot Care - Podiatrist in Annapolis, MD

Dr. James McKee discusses the importance of diabetic foot care to help avoid the complications of diabetes.

http://www.podiatrygroup.us

According to the American Diabetes Association, about 15.7 million people (5.9 percent of the United States population) have diabetes. Nervous system damage (also called neuropathy) affects about 60 to 70 percent of people with diabetes and is a major complication that may cause diabetics to lose feeling in their feet or hands.

Foot problems are a big risk in diabetics. Diabetics must constantly monitor their feet or face severe consequences, including amputation.

With a diabetic foot, a wound as small as a blister from wearing a shoe that's too tight can cause a lot of damage. Diabetes decreases blood flow, so injuries are slow to heal. When your wound is not healing, it's at risk for infection. As a diabetic, your infections spread quickly. If you have diabetes, you should inspect your feet every day. Look for puncture wounds, bruises, pressure areas, redness, warmth, blisters, ulcers, scratches, cuts and nail problems. Get someone to help you, or use a mirror.

Visit our website: http://www.podiatrygroup.us

Podiatrist in Annapolis, MD - Podiatry Group of Annapolis

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Podiatrist in Annapolis, MD - Podiatry Group of Annapolis

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Jenny Corkill, RN discusses her role as nurse for Dr. James McKee of the Podiatry Group of Annapolis.

http://www.podiatrygroup.us

At Podiatry Group of Annapolis, P.A., we believe that a doctor and patient become a team for treating an individual's feet. Our physicians spend most of their time listening to understand your concerns and responding with the best treatment options for you. With the help of our professional staff, they also follow up to make sure that generally pain is relieved, problems are resolved and your health improves.

We also want our patients to be informed about podiatric problems and treatments, because informed patients make better decisions about their health and well being. That is why we've included an extensive section on this web site covering the full array of topics associated with podiatry and podiatric diagnoses and treatments. We encourage you to look through these pages whenever you have an interest or concern about your feet.

We also know that convenience in the Annapolis area is important to your selection of a podiatrist. In these web pages you'll find information about Podiatry Group of Annapolis, P.A.'s office, including our Annapolis location, maps, directions, hours, insurance policies and appointment scheduling. Please feel free to contact us with any questions you have or to request an appointment. We hope you'll find our practice offers the accessibility and personal commitment you look for from a physician.

Visit our website: http://www.podiatrygroup.us

 

 

Pediatric Foot Care - Podiatrist in Annapolis, MD

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Pediatric Foot Care - Podiatrist in Annapolis, MD

Dr. James McKee discusses why foot pain is not normal in children and how many foot problems in children can treated to prevent foot problems later in life.

http://www.podiatrygroup.us

Children with strong, healthy feet avoid many kinds of lower extremity problems later in life. That's why it is important to inspect your children's feet periodically.

Infants

The size and shape of your baby's feet change quickly during their first year. Because a baby's feet are flexible, too much pressure or strain can affect the shape of their feet. It's important to allow baby to kick and stretch their feet freely. Also, make sure shoes and socks do not squeeze the toes.

Toddlers

Do not to force a toddler to walk before s/he is ready. Once walking begins, watch the toddler's gait. Many toddlers have a pigeon-toe gait, which is normal. Some initially learn to walk landing on their toes instead of their heels. Most children outgrow both these problems. But other conditions detected early can be treated more easily.

When Foot Care Is Needed

To help with flatfeet, special shoes or orthotics may be prescribed. To correct mild in-toeing or out-toeing, your toddler may need to sit in a different position while playing or watching TV. If your child's feet turn in or out a lot, corrective shoes, splints, or night braces may be prescribed.

The foot's bone structure is well-formed by the time your child reaches age 7 or 8, but if a growth plate (the area where bone growth begins) is injured, the damaged plate may cause the bone to grow oddly. With a doctor's care, however, the risk of future bone problems is reduced.

Remember to check your child's shoe size often. Make sure there is space between the toes and the end of the shoe and that the shoes are roomy enough to allow the toes to move freely. Don't let your child wear hand-me-downs shoes.

Visit our website: http://www.podiatrygroup.us

Treatment for Bunions - Podiatrist in Annapolis, MD

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What is a Bunion? - Podiatrist in Annapolis, MD

Dr. James McKee discusses the symptoms, causes and treatment for bunions.

http://www.podiatrygroup.us

A bunion is a bone deformity caused by an enlargement of the joint at the base and side of the big toe (metatarsophalangeal joint). Bunions form when the toe moves out of place. The enlargement and its protuberance cause friction and pressure as they rub against footwear. Over time, the movement of the big toe angles in toward the other toes, sometimes overlapping a third toe (known as Hallux Valgus). The growing enlargement or protuberance then causes more irritation or inflammation. In some cases, the big toe moves toward the second toe and rotates or twists, which is known as Hallus Abducto Valgus. Bunions can also lead to other toe deformities, such as hammertoe.

Many people with bunions suffer from discomfort and pain from the constant irritation, rubbing, and friction of the enlargement against shoes. The skin over the toe becomes red and tender. Because this joint flexes with every step, the bigger the bunion gets, the more it hurts to walk. Over time, bursitis or arthritis may set in, the skin on the bottom of the foot may become thicker, and everyday walking may become difficult—all contributing to chronic pain.

Wearing shoes that are too tight is the leading cause of bunions. Bunions are not hereditary, but they do tend to run in families, usually because of a faulty foot structure. Foot injuries, neuromuscular problems, flat feet, and pronated feet can contribute to their formation. It is estimated that bunions occur in 33 percent of the population in Western countries.

Treatment for Bunions

Because they are bone deformities, bunions do not resolve by themselves. The goal for bunion treatment is twofold: first, to relieve the pressure and pain cause by irritations, and second to stop any progressive growth of the enlargement. Commonly used methods for reducing pressure and pain caused by bunions include:

•The use of protective padding, often made from felt material, to eliminate the friction against shoes and help alleviate inflammation and skin problems.

•Removal of corns and calluses on the foot.

•Changing to carefully-fitted footwear designed to accommodate the bunion and not contribute toward its growth.

•Orthotic devices—both over-the-counter and custom made—to help stabilize the joint and place the foot in the correct position for walking and standing.

•Exercises to maintain joint mobility and prevent stiffness or arthritis.

•Splints for nighttime wear to help the toes and joint align properly. This is often recommended for adolescents with bunions, because their bone development may still be adaptable.

Surgical Treatment

Depending on the size of the enlargement, misalignment of the toe, and pain experienced, conservative treatments may not be adequate to prevent progressive damage from bunions. In these cases, bunion surgery, known as a bunionectomy, may be advised to remove the bunion and realign the toe.

Visit our website: http://www.podiatrygroup.us

Wound Care - Annapolis and Stevensville, MD Podiatrist

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Wound Care - Annapolis and Stevensville, MD Podiatrist

Dr. John Deleonibus discusses treatments for foot wounds.

http://www.annapolisfootandanklecenter.com

Wound Care - Annapolis and Stevensville, MD Podiatrist

With a diabetic foot, a wound as small as a blister from wearing a shoe that's too tight can cause a lot of damage. Diabetes decreases blood flow, so injuries are slow to heal. When your wound is not healing, it's at risk for infection. As a diabetic, your infections spread quickly. If you have diabetes, you should inspect your feet every day. Look for puncture wounds, bruises, pressure areas, redness, warmth, blisters, ulcers, scratches, cuts and nail problems. Get someone to help you, or use a mirror.  

Visit our website: http://www.annapolisfootandanklecenter.com

Flat Foot - Annapolis and Stevensville, MD Podiatrist

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Flat Foot - Annapolis and Stevensville, MD  Podiatrist

Eric Harmelin discusses causes, symptoms and treatment for flat feet.

http://www.annapolisfootandanklecenter.com

Flat feet are a common condition of the foot structure. In infants and toddlers, prior to walking, the longitudinal arch is not developed and flat feet are normal. Most feet are flexible and an arch appears when children begin standing on their toes. The arch continues to develop throughout childhood, and by adulthood most people have developed normal arches.

Flat feet are generally associated with pronation, a leaning inward of the ankle bones toward the center line. Shoes of children who pronate, when placed side by side, will lean toward each other (after they have been worn long enough for the foot position to remodel their shape).

Many people with flat feet do not experience pain or other problems. When pain in the foot, ankle, or lower leg does occur, especially in children, the feet should be evaluated.

Visit our website: http://www.annapolisfootandanklecenter.com

 

 

Bunions - Annapolis and Stevensville, MD Podiatrist

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Bunions - Annapolis and Stevensville, MD  Podiatrist

Dr. Eric Harmelin discusses the causes, symptoms and treatments for bunions.

http://www.annapolisfootandanklecenter.com

A bunion is a bone deformity caused by an enlargement of the joint at the base and side of the big toe (metatarsophalangeal joint). Bunions form when the toe moves out of place. The enlargement and its protuberance cause friction and pressure as they rub against footwear. Over time, the movement of the big toe angles in toward the other toes, sometimes overlapping a third toe (known as Hallux Varus). The growing enlargement or protuberance then causes more irritation or inflammation. In some cases, the big toe moves toward the second toe and rotates or twists, which is known as Hallus Abducto Varus. Bunions can also lead to other toe deformities, such as hammertoe.

Many people with bunions suffer from discomfort and pain from the constant irritation, rubbing, and friction of the enlargement against shoes. The skin over the toe becomes red and tender. Because this joint flexes with every step, the bigger the bunion gets, the more it hurts to walk. Over time, bursitis or arthritis may set in, the skin on the bottom of the foot may become thicker, and everyday walking may become difficult—all contributing to chronic pain.

Wearing shoes that are too tight is the leading cause of bunions. Bunions are not hereditary, but they do tend to run in families, usually because of a faulty foot structure. Foot injuries, neuromuscular problems, flat feet, and pronated feet can contribute to their formation. It is estimated that bunions occur in 33 percent of the population in Western countries.

Treatment for Bunions

Because they are bone deformities, bunions do not resolve by themselves. The goal for bunion treatment is twofold: first, to relieve the pressure and pain cause by irritations, and second to stop any progressive growth of the enlargement. Commonly used methods for reducing pressure and pain caused by bunions include:

•The use of protective padding, often made from felt material, to eliminate the friction against shoes and help alleviate inflammation and skin problems.

•Removal of corns and calluses on the foot.

•Changing to carefully fitted footwear designed to accommodate the bunion and not contribute toward its growth.

•Orthotic devices—both over-the-counter and custom made—to help stabilize the joint and place the foot in the correct position for walking and standing.

•Exercises to maintain joint mobility and prevent stiffness or arthritis.

•Splints for nighttime wear to help the toes and joint align properly. This is often recommended for adolescents with bunions, because their bone development may still be adaptable.

Surgical Treatment

Depending on the size of the enlargement, misalignment of the toe, and pain experienced, conservative treatments may not be adequate to prevent progressive damage from bunions. In these cases, bunion surgery, known as a bunionectomy, may be advised to remove the bunion and realign the toe.

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