Feet are one of the most commonly used parts of the body, yet many people fail to devote time to their care. Most people will walk more than 100,000 miles in their lifetime, and to make walking comfortable, it is important to ensure that their feet stay in top-notch shape
Enjoy a better quality of life
As more people are aware of the need for foot care, laser treatment for skin and toenail conditions and treatments for plantar fasciitis and foot and/or ankle tendinitis are becoming more common. In Maryland podiatry professionals are helping many enjoy a better quality of life with advanced lower-limb care.
Understanding some of the more common foot problems can help you know when it is time to seek podiatric care.
Here are a few of the more common foot issues for which people are seeking treatment:
Plantar fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is a condition that occurs when there is repetitive micro-trauma along the plantar fascia, a large ligament on the bottom of the foot. This leads to a build up of scar tissue and impingement of nerve branches to the heel therefore resulting in heel pain. If left untreated, it can cause severe pain and limitation of walking. Early treatment usually consists of stretching, splinting, rest, ice, custom orthotics, and switching to more supportive shoes. If the pain does not respond to conservative treatment, more aggressive measures, including surgery, may be pursued.
Tendinitis
Tendinitis is an inflammation of the tendon sheath and usually results from overuse, injury, weight gain, and/or failure to wear supportive shoes. It typically results in pain with walking therefore limiting mobility and physical activity. Treatment usually consists of rest, ice, immobilization, custom orthotics, physical therapy, weight loss and stretching and strengthening exercises. When conservative treatment fails to resolve symptoms, surgical treatment may be necessary.
Bunions
A bunion is a painful boney prominence that appears as a bump at the base of the big toe along edge of the 1st metatarsal bone. With bunions, the big toe usually turns inwards towards the 2nd toe. This can result in chronic foot pain, foot deformity, restriction of physical activity, and limited ability to comfortably wear shoes. Treatment consists of wearing deep and wide shoes, ice, custom foot orthotics, and medication. Surgical options may be necessary with failed conservative care.
Conservative approach with advanced technology
Dr. Jordan R. Stewart provides the most up-to-date podiatric services available when treating your foot and/or ankle conditions. He practices a conservative approach and surgery is only pursued when all other methods of treatment have been exhausted. For competent and efficient care of your foot and/or conditions Dr Stewart and the Timonium Foot and Ankle Center are the best choice for those needing a Maryland podiatry specialist.
For residents of Maryland podiatry care is accessible from the professionals at the Timonium Foot and Ankle Center.