Items filtered by date: March 2025

A black toenail occurs when the nail becomes discolored, often appearing dark or bruised. This condition is usually caused by repeated trauma, such as from wearing tight shoes or excessive running, which leads to bleeding under the nail. Fungal infections, underlying health conditions, or injuries from dropping a heavy object on the toe can also contribute to nail discoloration. In some cases, a black toenail may indicate a more serious medical concern. Preventing black toenails involves wearing properly fitted shoes with adequate toe space, keeping nails trimmed, and maintaining good foot hygiene. Reducing repetitive stress on the toes and seeking prompt treatment for any infections or injuries can also help. If discoloration persists or is accompanied by pain and swelling, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief tips, in addition to ruling out any serious conditions.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. 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.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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

Wearing high heels places excessive pressure on the feet, leading to pain and discomfort. The elevated heel shifts body weight forward, forcing the toes into a cramped position and increasing stress on the ball of the foot. This unnatural alignment can cause issues like bunions, hammertoes, and nerve compression. The lack of proper arch support and cushioning in many high-heeled shoes can lead to muscle strain and fatigue. Prolonged use may also contribute to Achilles tendon tightness and imbalance in posture, increasing the risk of ankle sprains. Walking in high heels alters gait mechanics, placing stress on the knees and lower back. If you have developed foot pain from wearing high heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief tips, and guide you on more appropriate shoes to wear.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Tanya R. Sellers-Hannibal, DPM from Maryland. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

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.