Breaking a toe can result in pain, swelling, and bruising due to internal bleeding. The area may look misshapen, especially if the bone ends are displaced or if the fracture extends into the toe joint. The big toe, which bears more weight during walking, is especially painful when fractured. Distinguishing a broken toe from a sprain or strain can be challenging, but a misshaped toe often indicates a fracture. An X-ray is typically the definitive method for diagnosis. Broken toes are common and often do not require specific treatment. However, it is essential to see a podiatrist if pain intensifies, swelling persists, or if the toe appears misaligned. For more severe toe fractures, treatment can involve a cast, especially for the big toe, which plays an essential role in balance. Surgery may be necessary in some cases, which can involve using metal wires, plates, or external fixation methods. Possible complications post-fracture include failed bone healing, infections, stiffness, persistent pain, and post-traumatic arthritis. If you have a broken toe that is not healing on its own, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for necessary treatment.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Howard Horowitz from Bowie Foot & Ankle . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

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

Foot blisters are a common and painful skin condition that can disrupt your daily life. These small, fluid filled sacs form as a result of friction or pressure on the skin, typically caused by ill fitting shoes, prolonged periods of walking or running, or repetitive movements. Blisters can develop on any part of the foot, but they are most commonly found on the heels, toes, and soles. The body creates blisters as a protective mechanism and the clear fluid inside serves as a cushion to shield the underlying skin from further damage. While blisters will often heal on their own, it is important to avoid popping them as this can increase the risk of infection. Instead, keep the area clean, apply a sterile dressing, and protect it from further irritation. Wearing shoes that fit properly is a preventive measure, in addition to using friction reducing creams to minimize the likelihood of foot blisters. If you have developed blisters on your feet, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can offer you additional prevention methods.

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 Dr. Howard Horowitz of Bowie Foot & Ankle . 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 office located in Bowie, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar fibromas are small lumps that develop in the sole of the foot and can cause foot arch pain in some cases. Treatment aims to reduce pressure on the nodule and alleviate pain. Treatment options include observation if the fibroma is not causing significant pain and non-surgical treatments like exercises. Other options are corticosteroid injections, shoe orthotics if the pain is mild to moderate, and surgery if the pain is severe and non-responsive to non-surgical methods. Exercises focus on stretching and strengthening the plantar fascia and surrounding tissues, to reduce tension on the fibroma. Corticosteroid injections can provide immediate pain relief and reduce the size of the nodule. Orthotics help relieve pressure on the nodules, although custom orthotics may be needed for larger nodules. Physical therapy may include ultrasound or shockwave therapy to reduce the size of the nodules, and radiotherapy can stabilize and shrink fibromas. Surgery is considered a last resort and involves removing the fibroma along with a portion of the plantar fascia. Recovery from plantar fibromas can take 6 to 12 months, during which modifications to activities and foot care are essential. If you think you have a plantar fibroma, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. Other conditions can cause similar symptoms, so proper diagnosis is important and then the most suitable treatment can be recommended.

A plantar fibroma may disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Howard Horowitz of Bowie Foot & Ankle . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Plantar Fibroma

A plantar fibroma is a fibrous knot in the arch of the foot. It is embedded in the plantar fascia which is a band of tissue that extends from the heel to the toes along the bottom of the foot. There can be multiple plantar fibromas in the feet at the same time. There are no known causes for this condition. If you have a plantar fibroma, there will be a bump in the arch of your foot that cannot be missed. Any associated pain is most often due to a shoe rubbing against the nodule. Non-surgical options, such as steroid injections, physical therapy, and orthotics should be tried first. Surgery is a last resort and is the only thing that will remove a plantar fibroma entirely. Consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and to determine the treatment regimen that is right for you.

What Causes a Plantar Fibroma?

While there are no specific causes identified, a plantar fibroma can possibly come from genetic predisposition or the formation of scar tissue that forms from healing the tears in the plantar fascia.

What Are the Symptoms of a Plantar Fibroma?

There will be a noticeable lump in the arch of the foot that may or may not cause pain. If pain is felt, it is typically because a shoe is rubbing up against the lump or when walking or standing barefoot.

Treatment and Prevention

A plantar fibroma will not disappear without treatment, but it can get smaller and be a non-issue. If pain persists, a podiatrist examines the foot and when the arch of the foot is pressed, pain can be felt down to the toes. An MRI or biopsy might be performed to help diagnose or evaluate the plantar fibroma. The following non-surgical options are generally enough to reduce the size and pain of these nodules:

• Steroid injections
• Orthotics
• Physical therapy to help apply anti-inflammatory creams on the bump 

Surgery is considered if the mass increases in size and the patient continues to feel pain after non-surgical methods are tried.

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

Foot and ankle issues, from various causes like chronic conditions or ill-fitting shoes, can interfere with daily life. Consulting a podiatrist is important for conditions like joint pain, often accompanied by swelling, redness, stiffness, or tenderness, which could be due to arthritis. Diabetes increases the risk of foot problems, from dry skin to severe complications like neuropathy, and regular podiatrist foot exams significantly lower amputation risks. Persistent heel pain caused by things like heel spurs or inflamed tendons requires a podiatrist's diagnosis and tailored treatment. Stubborn ingrown toenails, a common issue, may lead to infection and a podiatrist can provide timely treatment, including nail removal in chronic cases. Suspected foot or ankle injuries, such as sprains or strains, demand prompt diagnosis and treatment. Corns and calluses, if left untreated, can be painful and a podiatrist can safely remove them and offer prevention advice. Runners prone to issues like shin splints benefit from a podiatrist's assessment and recommendations for suitable athletic footwear. Painful bunions worsen without treatment, and a podiatrist can suggest measures like padding, taping, or orthotics. Suspected athlete's foot, a fungal infection causing itchiness and scaliness between the toes, requires professional care if over-the-counter treatments do not work. If you have any sort of foot or ankle problems, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can address these concerns, and offer diagnosis, treatment, and preventative guidance to enhance mobility and well-being.

If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to contact Dr. Howard Horowitz from Bowie Foot & Ankle . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

Someone would seek the care of a podiatrist if they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems, etc.

Podiatric Treatment

A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:

• Physical therapy
• Drugs
• Orthotic inserts or soles
• Surgery on lower extremity fractures

A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans are available.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Bowie, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Onychomycosis, a fungal infection that primarily targets the nails of the toes, arises from diverse fungal sources, which can complicate effective treatment. Fortunately, a number of remedies are available to help combat this issue and restore healthy nails. Toenail fungal infections can lead to symptoms such as thickened, discolored, and deformed nails, causing discomfort and embarrassment. Topical medications, including antifungal nail polish, creams, and ointments, can be applied directly to the affected nail. For more severe infections, prescribed oral medications work from within to eliminate the underlying infection. Although they may require several weeks or even months of treatment, they offer better results for stubborn cases. Laser therapy is a less invasive option, which involves using a laser to target and destroy the fungal cells within the nail. In extreme cases, when the infection is particularly resistant or has caused significant damage, surgical removal of the affected nail may be necessary. This involves extracting the entire nail or a portion of it. If you have a fungal toenail infection that is not responding to common treatments, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for additional options.

For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Howard Horowitz of Bowie Foot & Ankle . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

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

As parents, we cherish every moment of our children's growth and development. When it comes to their footwear, making the right choices is crucial. Shoes play a significant role in supporting their feet as they explore the world around them. There are essential tips to look for while buying children’s shoes. Having a proper fit can ensure there is adequate room for growth. Wearing shoes that are soft and flexible can encourage natural foot movement. Having ample arch support can help to aid in proper foot development. Additionally, choosing shoes that are made of breathable materials like mesh or leather can help to keep the feet dry and comfortable. Children's feet grow rapidly, and having regular checkups can help to ensure the right fit. By prioritizing the health and comfort of our children's feet, we empower them to enjoy every step of their journey toward a bright and active future. It is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can provide you with additional information about shoes for children.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Dr. Howard Horowitz of Bowie Foot & Ankle . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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

People who have swollen feet are often aware of the discomfort this condition can cause. It is common among pregnant women and generally begins in the second trimester. The medical term for swollen feet is edema, which is defined as fluid that becomes trapped in the body’s tissues. The feet and ankles are common areas for this to occur, and the fluids can pool in these areas as a result of gravity. Patients who have poor circulation may experience swollen feet, or it may happen to people who have endured a foot injury. Relief may be found when the feet are frequently elevated and compression stockings are worn. It is beneficial to reduce sodium intake, in addition to drinking plenty of water daily. If you have swollen feet, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can determine the cause and offer correct treatment options.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Howard Horowitz of Bowie Foot & Ankle . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

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

If you begin to feel pain in the middle joint of your big toe, it is quite possible that you may have a bunion. This deformity is caused by prolonged pressure that compresses the big toe and pushes it toward the smaller toes. This in turn causes the middle joint to push outward, resulting in a bony bump on the side of the foot. Besides a genetic disposition to bunions, wearing shoes that are too tight or too small is a major factor in their development. Side effects from bunions include pain in the joint of the big toe, corns, calluses, and difficulty wearing shoes. In some cases, the movement of the tip of the big toe toward the other toes causes it to overlap onto the second toe. This causes problems finding appropriate footwear and can have a negative effect on posture and gait. Wearing shoes with a wider and roomier toe box is one way to reduce the effects of a bunion. Also, avoiding high-heeled shoes can help. Foot pads are available to relieve some of the pressure, as well as wearing shoes made with mesh or more flexible materials. If you have a bunion, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and recommendations for treatment.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Dr. Howard Horowitz of Bowie Foot & Ankle . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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

Patients often ask podiatrists how plantar warts grow on the feet. The answer is slightly complicated. These warts can grow and develop on the bottoms or soles of the feet typically from exposure to the human papillomavirus (HPV). Often the HPV can enter the skin through some sort of existing cut or opening. As a result, the HPV can facilitate uncontrolled cellular growth, which ultimately leads to the development of a wart. Plantar warts are unique in that they can create a hole in the bottom of the feet. Some plantar warts can be particularly painful for patients. Other cases of plantar warts might even be itchy. If you are currently suffering from plantar warts, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist today who can help you address any problems you might have from this infection.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Howard Horowitz from Bowie Foot & Ankle . Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Bowie, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.