Flat feet and overpronation are both similar and different. Flat feet are about what your foot looks like at rest, while overpronation is about how your foot behaves in motion. Although they may look the same, they function differently. Flat feet occur when the sole contacts the ground when you stand. Overpronation happens when the feet roll inward too much while standing or walking. This may cause pain, fatigue, or heaviness in the feet. Symptoms may become noticeable after long periods of standing, walking, or exercise. 

Flat feet can develop naturally during childhood or result from changes in the bones, muscles, or ligaments. Aging, injury, and certain health conditions may increase risk. Wearing unsupportive shoes may contribute to discomfort when the feet lack support. Overpronation can place additional stress on the arches and ankles. Common symptoms include aching arches, tired feet, and discomfort during activity. Some people may also notice uneven shoe wear or difficulty standing for extended periods of time.

A podiatrist can determine whether flat feet or overpronation are contributing to symptoms. The evaluation may include examining foot alignment, checking the arches while standing, and observing walking patterns. The podiatrist may assess joint movement and muscle strength, as well. Treatment depends on the cause and severity of symptoms. Recommendations may include supportive footwear, custom orthotics, or other conservative care. If structural problems are significant, the podiatrist can discuss additional treatment options based on your needs.

You do not always need treatment simply because you have flat feet. However, persistent pain or fatigue deserves attention when symptoms interfere with normal activities. Early evaluation can identify contributing factors and help protect comfortable movement. Supportive shoes and appropriate foot care may reduce strain during daily activities. If you have flat feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and management solutions. 

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Tanya R. Sellers-Hannibal, DPM from Maryland. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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.

Blisters between the toes are small, fluid-filled areas that develop when skin becomes irritated or damaged. They can be uncomfortable and may make walking difficult, especially when footwear presses against the affected area. Friction is one of the most common causes. Wearing tight shoes, damp socks, and repeated rubbing can create enough irritation to form a blister. However, not every blister between the toes comes from friction. Common skin conditions, including athlete's foot and eczema, can also cause irritation, peeling, or small fluid-filled bumps.

Symptoms can vary depending on the cause. A friction blister may appear as a raised area filled with clear fluid and may feel tender when touched. Skin affected by athlete's foot can become itchy, red, peeling, or cracked. Risk factors include wearing poorly fitting shoes, excessive foot sweating, and spending long periods of time walking or standing. People who frequently participate in sports may also experience repeated friction that increases the chance of developing blisters.

A podiatrist can determine why blisters are developing by examining the skin and reviewing your symptoms. If a fungal infection or another skin condition is suspected, additional testing may help confirm the diagnosis. Treatment depends on the underlying cause. A podiatrist may protect the area from further friction, recommend appropriate wound care, or prescribe medication when an infection or skin condition is involved. If a blister is large or painful, professional drainage may sometimes be considered. The area should be monitored for signs of infection during healing.

Blisters between the toes should not be ignored, especially when they return or become painful. Keeping feet dry and choosing properly fitted footwear can help reduce irritation. However, recurring blisters may signal an underlying condition that requires professional attention. Early evaluation can help identify the cause and support healthier skin. If you have blisters between the toes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and prevention solutions.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Tanya R. Sellers-Hannibal, DPM of Maryland. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often 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.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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.

Neuropathy develops when nerves become damaged or stop working properly. When it affects the feet, symptoms can change how a person feels pressure, temperature, and pain. Neuropathic pain comes from damaged or irritated nerves rather than an outside injury. It can feel like burning, shooting, or stabbing pain. Some patients experience tingling or numbness instead. Even a light touch can feel painful in some cases. Symptoms can become constant or appear without an obvious trigger, making normal activities like standing and walking more difficult.

Several conditions can lead to neuropathy and nerve pain. Diabetes is a major cause because high blood sugar can damage nerves. Injuries can also harm nerves and create lasting symptoms. Certain infections can affect nerve function as well. In some patients, the exact cause of neuropathic pain is not clear. Loss of feeling in the feet deserves attention because patients might not notice cuts, pressure, or other injuries. A small foot problem can become more serious when reduced sensation prevents a patient from recognizing it. Nerve problems can also affect balance and increase difficulty with walking.

A podiatrist can evaluate the feet for signs of neuropathy and determine how nerve changes are affecting foot health. The examination can include checking sensation, skin condition, and muscle strength. A podiatrist can also assess balance and the way a patient walks. Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the nerve problem. Podiatric care can focus on protecting areas with reduced sensation and addressing painful foot conditions that can become harder to detect. Regular examinations can identify wounds or pressure areas before they develop into serious complications. Care can also help patients maintain safer, more comfortable movement. If you have symptoms of neuropathy, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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 Tanya R. Sellers-Hannibal, DPM from Maryland. 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 office located in Owings Mills, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot pain affects the toes, arches, or other parts of the foot. It can develop suddenly or gradually, and may make walking or standing difficult. Symptoms include aching, burning, or sharp pain. Common types include pain related to nerve problems, injuries, and inflammation. Understanding these differences can help guide appropriate treatment and recovery.

Nerve-related foot pain may cause burning, tingling, or shooting discomfort. Diabetes, nerve compression, and other conditions can contribute to these symptoms. Injury is another common cause, and may result from falls, sports injuries, or sudden impact. Sprains, strains, and fractures can cause pain with swelling or difficulty bearing weight. Inflammation can also affect the feet, and conditions such as plantar fasciitis and tendon irritation may develop when tissues become irritated from repeated stress.

Several factors can increase the risk of foot pain. Wearing poorly fitting or unsupportive footwear can create pressure and increase strain during daily activities. Age may also play a role because natural changes in joints, muscles, and cushioning can affect foot comfort. Obesity can place additional stress on the feet during standing and walking. Other risk factors include prolonged standing, previous injuries, or changes in daily activity patterns. Identifying contributing factors can help prevent recurring discomfort.

A podiatrist can evaluate foot pain by reviewing symptoms, examining the feet, and checking areas of tenderness. Imaging or other testing may be recommended when an injury or underlying condition is suspected. Treatment depends on the cause and may include supportive footwear, activity changes, or custom orthotics. A podiatrist can also provide guidance for protecting the feet while they heal. Persistent or worsening pain should receive podiatric attention. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is and offer appropriate relief and treatment solutions.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Tanya R. Sellers-Hannibal, DPM from Maryland. 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 office located in Owings Mills, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.