September 2018

If you should develop a bunion on the side of your big toe, you may want to consider permanent removal of this condition by having surgery performed. This particular procedure is referred to as an osteotomy, and may be effective in diminishing any pain that is associated with it. Additionally, a foot condition that is known as hammer toe may benefit by being surgically corrected. This type of surgery typically involves eliminating the joint appearing deformed, that is located between the toes, and may result in the toes becoming more flexible. Surgery that is referred to as an ankle fusion, may be beneficial in helping to heal ankle arthritis, which may be a result of a condition that is known as osteoarthritis. If you are afflicted with an Achilles tendon injury, surgery may be a reasonable option, which may eliminate the swelling and pain that is often associated with this ailment. If you are suffering from a severe foot malady, please consult with a podiatrist for a correct diagnosis and the best course of treatment, which may include surgery.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Dr. Mark Spier of Maryland. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

The sesamoid bones are located in the tendon that aids in moving the big toe. One of the several functions of these types of bones is to help support the body’s weight. If the area surrounding these particular bones should become inflamed, a condition that is referred to as sesamoiditis may occur. This may be the result of a sudden injury or gradual loss of strength in the bones. The pain is typically felt in the ball of the foot, and the inflammation may extend to the inside of the arch. It may commonly be observed in young people who are physically active, in addition to runners and ballet dancers which may occur due to the amount of force that the sesamoid bones must endure. Some of the symptoms that may be connected with this condition may include bruising, swelling, or difficulty in straightening the big toe. If you feel you may have sesamoiditis, please schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can provide a correct diagnosis in addition to discussing correct treatment options.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Dr. Mark Spier of Maryland. Our doctor will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

• Sudden increase in activity
• Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
• Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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

It’s important for most people to check their feet frequently for abnormal conditions, and this is especially true for diabetic patients. If cuts, scrapes and blisters are not noticed, the chances of developing an infection may be amplified because of the body’s inability to heal efficiently. If there are wounds on the feet, recent research has shown the importance of resting frequently, which takes pressure off of the affected area. If you notice cuts on your feet and ankles, it’s suggested to consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible. At this time a treatment plan can be discussed, which may include what type of wound dressing to use and how often it should be changed. It may be helpful to the patient and may aid in the healing process if the blood sugar levels can be controlled by maintaining a healthy diet and gentle exercise plan.

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 Dr. Mark Spier from Maryland. 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 feel free to contact one of our offices located in Columbia and Reisterstown, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.