The human foot is a marvel of engineering, with a complex network of 26 bones working seamlessly in unison to support our body weight and enable a wide range of movements. These bones can be categorized into three main groups, known as the tarsal bones in the ankle, metatarsals in the arch, and phalanges in the toes. Tarsal bones provide the foot's stability and shock-absorbing capacity. They bear the weight and help transmit the forces generated during activities. Metatarsals form the foot's longitudinal arch, creating a flexible structure that acts as a lever during walking, running, and jumping. The phalanges, or toes, contribute to balance and provide dexterity. The biomechanics of the feet rely on an extensive network of muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Together, they allow for precise and controlled movements. When all components function harmoniously, the foot operates efficiently, ensuring that we can walk, run, and stand with stability and grace. Understanding this collaboration among foot bones highlights the importance of proper foot care and maintenance for a lifetime of healthy and pain-free mobility. If you would like additional information about the intricacies of the feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide you with the information you are seeking.

If you have any concerns about your feet, 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.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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 and ankle needs.

Ankle sprains are a common occurrence, especially among active individuals, but for some, they can be a recurrent and frustrating issue. Ankle sprains most frequently occur when the ligaments on the outside of the ankle are stretched or torn as the joint moves beyond its normal range of motion. Many such sprains may appear minor, with minimal swelling and mobility problems. However, if recurrent, they can have a cumulative effect and produce lasting consequences, leading to chronic ankle instability. Once you have experienced an ankle sprain, you are more likely to have another. Studies have shown that a history of lateral ankle sprains can disrupt the structural integrity of ligaments in the joint. As a result, up to 70% of patients report feelings of instability and recurrent ankle sprain injuries. Consequences include a reduced quality of life and an increased risk of early-onset osteoarthritis. Also, people with a history of ankle sprains often become progressively sedentary, are more likely to gain weight, and experience more general body pain. Methods to reduce the risk of another sprain include wearing an ankle brace and performing a series of exercises designed to strengthen the ankle joint. For help with recurring ankle sprains or instability, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a full assessment and appropriate treatment options.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. 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.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen 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 and ankle needs.

Nighttime foot cramps are a common and disruptive issue, affecting up to 60 percent of adults. They can be caused by inactivity, poor posture, and sleeping positions that restrict blood flow and compress nerves. Overexerting foot muscles through excessive activity or fatigue can lead to muscle cramping, as can wearing improper footwear or working on hard surfaces. Dehydration, often from inadequate water intake or illness, can result in foot muscle cramps due to electrolyte imbalances. Nutrient deficiencies, particularly in vitamins B-12, thiamin, folate, magnesium, and potassium, can lead to nerve damage and cause cramps. Excessive alcohol use may cause nerve damage and alcoholic neuropathy that may contribute to foot cramps. Pregnancy, especially in the later stages, can bring on leg and foot cramps, possibly due to increased weight and nutritional deficiencies. Certain health conditions like peripheral arterial disease, kidney disease, anemia, and diabetes can also be associated with nighttime foot cramps. If your foot cramps occur frequently and do not improve even after making adjustments to your routine, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. This specialist in foot and ankle care can perform a thorough evaluation, provide you with a proper diagnosis, and recommend treatment options to alleviate your discomfort. 

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.

If left untreated, corns on the feet can lead to various complications. Corns are thickened areas of skin caused by friction and pressure, which can become painful and result in infections. This can happen when bacteria enter through cracks in the skin or if the corn is cut or punctured. Infections can lead to more serious problems, including septic arthritis or infection of nearby bone tissue. Corns left untreated can also trigger severe pain, causing individuals to alter their posture. This can affect how pressure is distributed while walking. Individuals with diabetes may have reduced sensation in their feet due to nerve damage. This means they might not notice small cuts or corns. If corns are left untreated in people with diabetes, it can lead to complications like those previously mentioned, in addition to tissue death known as gangrene. To prevent these complications, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to seek treatment if corns become painful. This foot expert can provide proper care to help avoid serious complications from corns.

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Tanya R. Sellers-Hannibal, DPM of Maryland. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:

• Well-fitting socks
• Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
• Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctor to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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 and ankle needs.

Ankle arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that can greatly improve the quality of life for anyone with ankle pain and discomfort. This procedure involves making small cuts around the ankle and looking inside the incisions with an arthroscope to identify and correct issues. Recovery time can vary from person to person, but generally, patients can expect a few weeks to a couple of months for a full recovery. The first week or two may involve some discomfort and limited mobility. Most patients can resume driving within a few weeks after surgery, but it's important to consult with your podiatrist beforehand. Returning to work and sports activities may take longer, often between four to eight weeks or more, depending on the nature of your job or the intensity of your sport.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle 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.

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 office located in Owings Mills, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.