Foot pain is a common issue that can develop from daily habits and lifestyle choices. It refers to discomfort in any part of the foot, including the heel, arch, or sole. While injuries and medical conditions can contribute, many cases of foot pain are linked to preventable behaviors. Activities such as running barefoot, wearing shoes without socks, choosing worn-out running shoes, and frequent use of high heels can place excessive stress on the feet and lead to ongoing discomfort.

Symptoms of foot pain vary depending on the cause but often include aching, burning sensations, or sharp pain during movement. Running barefoot may lead to strain on the plantar fascia and increased pressure on the heel and forefoot. Wearing shoes without socks can cause friction, leading to blisters, irritation, and skin infections. Worn-out running shoes lose their cushioning and support, which can result in joint stress and fatigue. Frequent use of high heels shifts body weight forward, increasing pressure on the ball of the foot and toes.

The causes of foot pain from these behaviors are related to poor support, repetitive stress, and improper alignment. Barefoot running on hard surfaces reduces shock absorption and increases impact forces. Shoes that have lost their structure no longer provide stability, which can affect gait and balance. High heels alter natural foot mechanics and can contribute to deformities over time. Friction from not wearing socks can weaken the skin barrier, making it more prone to injury.

Risk factors include active lifestyles, long periods of standing, improper footwear choices, and lack of foot care awareness. Preventive measures, such as wearing supportive shoes, replacing worn footwear regularly, and using moisture-wicking socks, can reduce the risk of pain. Making small adjustments to daily habits can protect long-term foot health. If you have developed foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment for long-term relief.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Edward Orman, DPM from Honeygo Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Foot stress fractures are hairline cracks in the bones of the foot that develop from repeated pressure rather than a single injury. These fractures frequently affect anyone whose feet absorb repeated impact from activities like running, basketball, tennis, and other high-impact sports. A stress fracture can be extremely small, but it can still cause significant pain. The condition often develops when activity levels are increased too quickly. The muscles and bones are not always prepared for this added demand. As a result, repeated force can create tiny cracks in the bone. Stress fractures commonly affect the metatarsals, which are the long bones in the middle of the foot. They can also occur in the heel bone or other areas that absorb repeated stress.

Symptoms usually begin gradually. Many people notice pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest. As the fracture progresses, pain can become more persistent and interfere with daily movement. Other signs include swelling, tenderness, and discomfort when walking or standing. Some people develop a visible area of swelling near the injured bone. Risk factors include sudden increases in training intensity, changes in exercise routines, and foot structure problems that place extra pressure on certain bones. Wearing shoes that lack adequate support can also increase strain on the foot. Adolescents and people with weakened bone density face a higher risk.

A podiatrist can diagnose a stress fracture through a physical examination and a review of symptoms and activity levels. Because a stress fracture may not be visible on an X-ray, an MRI scan helps confirm the diagnosis. Treatment focuses on allowing the bone to heal while reducing pressure on the injured area. A podiatrist may recommend a walking boot, protective bracing, or temporary activity modifications. In more severe cases, surgery is considered when the fracture does not heal properly. Untreated stress fractures can lead to chronic pain, stiffness, and more serious bone damage. If you have symptoms of a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Edward Orman, DPM from Honeygo Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Perry Hall, and Fallston, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A diabetic foot ulcer is an open sore that develops on the foot of a person with diabetes. These wounds commonly form when nerve damage reduces feeling in the feet. A person may not notice a cut, blister, or scrape right away. Poor blood flow can also slow healing and increase the risk of infection. Diabetic foot ulcers are most likely to appear on the bottom of the foot or under pressure points. Symptoms include redness, swelling, drainage, and pain, but some people feel very little discomfort because of nerve damage. Early detection is important because untreated ulcers can become deeper and more difficult to manage.

Proper wound care plays a major role in helping a diabetic foot ulcer heal. A podiatrist carefully examines the wound and looks for signs of infection. Treatment includes cleaning the ulcer and removing dead or damaged tissue. This process is called debridement and helps healthy tissue heal more effectively. Dressings are used to protect the wound and maintain a healthy healing environment. Treatment also includes reducing pressure on the ulcer. This is known as off-loading. Special footwear, a walking boot, or other devices help keep weight away from the injured area while walking.

Managing diabetes is another important part of wound care. Good blood sugar control supports the body's ability to heal. In addition, patients should inspect their feet daily and report changes promptly. Signs of infection include redness, warmth, and drainage. Other signs include swelling, odor, or increasing pain. A podiatrist can monitor healing progress and adjust treatment when necessary. Prompt care lowers the risk of more serious complications, including loss of limb. If you have developed a foot ulcer as a result of diabetes, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can effectively treat foot wounds, and help you to manage this serious condition.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Edward Orman, DPM from Honeygo Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Perry Hall, and Fallston, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Toenail fungus is a common infection that can change the way your nails look and feel. The affected nails may become thick, yellow, or brown. They can appear brittle, cracked, or misshapen. Some people notice debris building up under the nail, a bad odor, or the nail starting to lift away from the skin underneath. In some cases, the condition can cause discomfort, especially when wearing shoes or walking. Toenail fungus develops when fungi enter through small cracks in the nail or surrounding skin. These organisms grow best in warm, moist environments like sweaty shoes, locker rooms, and public pool areas. Risk factors include aging, previous nail injuries, or diabetes. Because other nail conditions can look similar, a proper diagnosis is important. A podiatrist can examine the nail, confirm whether fungus is present, and recommend the most effective treatment. If you notice fungal toenail symptoms, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment for evaluation and care.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Edward Orman, DPM of Honeygo Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Perry Hall, and Fallston, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.