A broken toe occurs when one of the small bones in the toe cracks or breaks, often due to stubbing, dropping a heavy object, or direct trauma during sports or accidents. It may look swollen, bruised, or misaligned, and in severe cases, the toe may appear bent or deformed. Many individuals describe immediate sharp pain, tenderness, and difficulty walking or bearing weight on the affected foot. Even minor toe fractures can affect balance and gait if left untreated, potentially causing long-term foot problems. A podiatrist can begin by examining the toe, assessing movement and alignment, and using X-rays or other imaging to confirm the fracture. Treatment may include buddy taping, protective footwear, splints, or in severe cases minor surgical intervention to realign the bone. Early professional care can help ensure proper healing, reduce pain, and prevent complications. If you suspect a broken toe, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

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 Tanya R. Sellers-Hannibal, DPM from Maryland. 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 Owings Mills, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Morton’s neuroma is a painful condition that develops when the tissue around a nerve between the toes thickens, often due to pressure from tight shoes, high heels, or repetitive impact activities. It may look subtle from the outside, but many people feel a sharp, burning, or tingling sensation in the ball of the foot that can radiate into the toes. Some describe the feeling as standing on a pebble or having a fold in the sock that will not smooth out. Swelling is sometimes present, although it is not always visible. Morton’s neuroma most commonly occurs between the third and fourth toes, likely because this area experiences the greatest compression during walking. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition through a physical exam, gait evaluation, and imaging if needed. Treatment options may include footwear modifications, custom orthotics, anti-inflammatory therapies, or targeted injections to reduce nerve irritation. If you experience persistent forefoot pain or numbness, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Tanya R. Sellers-Hannibal, DPM of Maryland. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

Our feet are complex and vital structures that often go underappreciated until pain or issues arise. Comprising 26 bones, 33 joints, and an intricate network of nerves and blood vessels, our feet provide the stability and balance essential for every step. Ignoring their health can lead to a range of issues, from mild discomfort to serious conditions, especially in those with diabetes, where foot complications can escalate quickly. Wearing well-fitted shoes and regularly visiting a podiatrist are important steps to ensure optimal foot health, allowing us to prevent or manage issues early. Focusing on foot care helps us maintain mobility and independence, highlighting the importance of paying attention to these important yet often overlooked parts of our body. If you would like to safeguard the health of your feet, it is suggested that you schedule appointments with a podiatrist for routine exams.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Tanya R. Sellers-Hannibal, DPM from Maryland. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

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

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain that occurs when the thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot becomes inflamed. This condition often results from overuse, wearing poor footwear, or tight calf muscles. Gentle stretches can help relieve discomfort and improve flexibility. Heel raises strengthen the supporting muscles, while toe movements increase mobility in the arch. Additionally, bending forward at the hips with one leg extended helps stretch the calf and ease tension in the plantar fascia. A podiatrist can evaluate your condition, recommend tailored exercises, and provide custom orthotics or other treatments to promote healing. If heel pain is limiting your daily activities, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Tanya R. Sellers-Hannibal, DPM from Maryland. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

• Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
• Similar to the previous one, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
• Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
• Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising and ice and rest the foot. It is advised to then see a podiatrist for help.

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