Choosing shoes that fit well plays an important role in foot health and comfort. A proper fit begins with enough room in the toe box, which is the part of the shoe where the toes sit, so they are not crowded or pressed together. Shoes should have a secure heel area to hold the foot in place and reduce slipping. Cushioning in the sole helps absorb impact with each step, while a low heel can improve balance and reduce strain on the forefoot. Shoes that do not fit can lead to blisters, joint pain, and changes in walking patterns over time. A podiatrist can measure your feet, assess how you walk, and recommend footwear that supports your foot structure. They can suggest custom orthotics, which are inserts designed to improve alignment and reduce pressure. If you have foot pain after wearing certain shoes, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for help.

It is important to find shoes that fit you properly in order to avoid a variety of different foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Tanya R. Sellers-Hannibal, DPM from Maryland. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

Shoes have many different functions. They cushion our body weight, protect our feet, and allow us to safely play sports. You should always make sure that the shoes you wear fit you properly in order to avoid injuries and deformities such as: bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and more. It is important to note that although a certain pair of shoes might be a great fit for someone else, that doesn’t mean they will be a great fit for you. This is why you should always try on shoes before buying them to make sure they are worth the investment. Typically, shoes need to be replaced ever six months to one year of regular use.

Tips for Proper Shoe Fitting

• Select a shoe that is shaped like your foot
• Don’t buy shoes that fit too tight, expecting them to stretch to fit
• Make sure there is enough space (3/8” to ½”) for your longest toe at the end of each shoe when you are standing up
• Walk in the shoes to make sure they fit and feel right
• Don’t select shoes by the size marked inside the shoe, but by how the shoe fits your foot

The shoes you buy should always feel as good as they look. Shoes that fit properly will last longer, feel better, and improve your way of life each day.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Owings Mills, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot pain can sometimes be caused by rheumatoid arthritis or gout, each affecting the joints in different ways. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that often causes pain, swelling, and stiffness in multiple joints. The joints may feel warm, appear swollen, and become increasingly stiff, especially in the morning or after rest. Over time, joint shape may change, leading to deformities and difficulty walking. Gout typically presents as a sudden and intense attack of pain, often affecting the big toe. The joint may become red, hot, and extremely tender, sometimes developing overnight. This occurs due to a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joint. A podiatrist can help distinguish between these conditions through examination and testing. They can then coordinate care that may include medication, supportive footwear, and custom orthotics to protect the joints. If you have foot pain from rheumatoid arthritis or gout, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact Tanya R. Sellers-Hannibal, DPM of Maryland. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

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

Swelling of the feet and ankles, also known as edema, occurs when excess fluid collects in the tissues. This may develop gradually or appear suddenly, causing the feet to look puffy, tight, or shiny. Shoes may feel tighter, and pressing on the skin may leave a temporary indentation. Swelling can be caused by standing or sitting for long periods, of time, injury, and pregnancy. Underlying conditions like circulation problems, heart disease, or kidney issues may also contribute. In addition, swelling may be linked to medications or inflammation in the foot or ankle joints. A podiatrist can help determine whether the swelling is related to a localized foot condition or part of a broader medical concern. Evaluation includes examining circulation, joint health, and skin condition. Treatment options include compression therapy, elevation, footwear recommendations, and targeted exercises to improve circulation. If you have persistent or unexplained swelling of the feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer appropriate relief and treatment tips.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Tanya R. Sellers-Hannibal, DPM of Maryland. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Owings Mills, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete's foot is a common fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet. It is caused by fungi that thrive in warm moist environments, such as locker rooms and sweaty shoes. This condition often appears between the toes, but can also spread to the soles and sides of the feet. Risk factors include poor foot hygiene, wearing tight footwear, and frequent exposure to damp surfaces. Symptoms include itching, burning, redness, peeling skin, and sometimes cracking or blistering. A podiatrist can diagnose the infection accurately, providing care advice and effective treatment options including antifungal medications. If you have symptoms of athlete’s foot, it  is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Tanya R. Sellers-Hannibal, DPM from Maryland.  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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