A cane is a supportive mobility aid designed to enhance stability and reduce the risk of falls during walking. It is especially beneficial for patients experiencing balance issues or instability due to injury or chronic conditions. Proper use is essential. The cane should be held in the hand opposite the injured or weaker foot to promote a more symmetrical gait that closely resembles a natural walking pattern. This technique helps distribute weight evenly and improves confidence with movement. A podiatrist can assess gait, recommend the appropriate type of cane if one is needed, and provide guidance on correct usage. Early support can prevent injury and maintain independence. If you are unstable on your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine the cause and offer effective treatment solutions.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Tanya R. Sellers-Hannibal, DPM from Maryland. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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.

Tingling in the feet is often one of the first signs of diabetic neuropathy, a nerve problem caused by diabetes. High blood sugar levels can damage the nerves and reduce normal blood flow to the feet. This can lead to tingling, numbness, and burning pain in the feet. Sharp shooting pain, weakness, and unusually hot or cold feet are other symptoms. These symptoms often affect both feet and can become worse at night. When feeling in the feet is reduced, it is harder to notice cuts, blisters, or sores that can lead to infection and ulcers. Poor balance and walking problems may also develop. A podiatrist can examine the feet, test nerve sensation, check circulation, and help prevent serious complications. Regular foot exams are important for people with diabetes. If you have tingling sensations in the feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Tanya R. Sellers-Hannibal, DPM from Maryland. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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.

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.