Generally speaking, a blister that develops on the foot is not a serious condition. Occasionally, a blister that pops prematurely may lead to an infection developing, and there are effective methods that can be done to prevent this. A blister is defined as a small bubble that naturally forms over damaged skin, and is filled with protective liquid. When new skin forms, the blister will gradually drain, which is the body’s natural healing response. A blister on the foot can happen for various reasons, the most common being excess friction that is caused by the shoes and socks that are worn. There may also be existing medical conditions that can cause blisters, which can include eczema and psoriasis. Blisters on the feet may be prevented by dusting talcum powder in the socks if sweating is severe, and it is beneficial to wear shoes that fit well. If you have blisters on your feet, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can treat them if necessary, and guide you toward additional prevention techniques.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact Edward Orman, DPM of Honeygo Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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.

Patients with a condition known as foot drop, as well as other foot and ankle-related problems, may need the assistance of an ankle brace. This device is commonly called an AFO, or ankle-foot orthosis. The brace aids the wearer by providing stability in the ankle joint, maintaining its alignment, and preventing the foot from dragging on the ground while walking. AFOs are made of plastic, metal, or strong fiber, depending on the needs of the patient. A podiatrist can determine the type of AFO required by conducting a series of tests to assess muscle strength, joint mobility, and gait issues. Ankle-foot orthoses come in various forms, including solid, which encases the joint, and hinged, which provides controlled ankle movement. A typical AFO begins just below the knee and extends to the base of the toes. This type of device is commonly prescribed for patients with foot drop, nerve disorders, trauma, and other conditions that affect the gait. For more information on an ankle-foot orthotic device, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Edward Orman, DPM from Honeygo Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

Many diabetics suffer from a related condition known as Charcot foot. It is caused by peripheral neuropathy, which is nerve damage and a loss of sensation in the lower legs and feet. Diabetics with Charcot foot may notice redness, warmth, and swelling of the feet, the condition also weakens the bones, soft tissues, and joints of the foot. As the disease progresses it may lead to fractures and dislocation of the ankle bones. Charcot foot can be detected through a physical examination, X-rays, and blood tests. The condition generally affects only one foot. Taking the weight off the affected foot is paramount in helping to keep symptoms at bay. The bones in the foot can easily collapse and if ignored can produce even more serious problems. In some cases, patients are directed to wear a special boot or cast to protect the foot. Orthotic inserts in shoes are often helpful in providing the needed cushioning. If you are experiencing symptoms of Charcot foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist as soon as possible for an exam and diagnosis. 

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 Edward Orman, DPM from Honeygo Podiatry. 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 offices located in Perry Hall, and Fallston, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Walking is one of the most popular forms of exercise, mainly because it’s easy to do, costs relatively little money, and has a positive effect on general health. Another reason for its popularity is the low-impact nature of walking. It puts far less pressure on the joints, and the risk of injury is low. Walking is also believed to improve circulation, help control blood pressure, and release stress. To get started on walking as an exercise, experts suggest finding the proper footwear. This not only increases the benefits of walking, it also helps to prevent foot problems. Make sure the shoes are designed for walking and not running or another activity. Be aware of proper cushioning and arch support, both of which can help to ward off plantar fasciitis. It is beneficial to start out walking easy and work your way up to a total of about 150 minutes a week. Also, warming up before your walk and cooling down with stretches afterward are important ways to prevent injury. For more information about getting started with walking for exercise, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Edward Orman, DPM from Honeygo Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctor to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

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.