Choosing the right shoe size is essential for overall foot health and comfort. Wearing shoes that are too tight can lead to blisters, calluses, and even long-term conditions like bunions or hammertoes. Shoes that are too loose can cause instability, leading to slips, falls, or joint pain. Properly fitting shoes provide adequate support to the arches, cushioning to absorb shock, and protection from external pressure. They can help improve posture, reduce foot fatigue, and prevent injuries by promoting better alignment. Additionally, the right shoe size enhances overall comfort during physical activities like running, walking, or standing for extended periods. When shoes fit well, they allow for natural foot movement, providing a balance of support and flexibility, which is essential for maintaining foot health and avoiding discomfort. If you have endured foot pain from wearing the wrong shoe size, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can offer relief techniques, and guide you on how to find your correct shoe size.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of Jeffrey L. Bober, DPM from Maryland. Our doctor will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

• When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
• Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
• Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
• Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
• If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

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

Ankle pain while walking can significantly impact your daily activities, and several conditions may be the culprit. Fractures, often resulting from trauma like a fall, typically cause severe pain, swelling, bruising, and an inability to bear weight on the foot. Treatment may include immobilization or surgery, depending on the severity of the fracture. Tendon sprains or tears, often caused by overuse or sudden movements, lead to pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the ankle. A podiatrist may recommend compression or targeted exercises to help with healing. Ligament sprains or tears occur when the ankle twists or rolls, causing pain, bruising, and swelling. Treatment typically involves rest and elevation. Dislocations, where the bones in the ankle are out of place, can cause severe pain, swelling, and visible deformity. Immediate treatment involves realigning the joint, followed by rehabilitation. If you are experiencing ankle pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Jeffrey L. Bober, 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 tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• 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 Glen Burnie, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain, occurring when the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot becomes inflamed. It is often caused by repetitive strain, such as from excessive walking, running, or wearing poorly fitting shoes. Other contributing factors include obesity, tight calf muscles, or an abnormal foot arch. The primary symptom of plantar fasciitis is sharp heel pain, particularly when taking the first steps in the morning or after long periods of sitting. The pain may subside with activity but often returns after prolonged standing or exercise. Treatment for plantar fasciitis focuses on reducing inflammation and relieving pressure. Common methods include stretching exercises, anti-inflammatory medications, and custom orthotics. In severe cases, corticosteroid injections may be recommended. A podiatrist can provide a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your needs, helping you recover and prevent future flare-ups. If you are experiencing persistent heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for expert care.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Jeffrey L. Bober, DPM from Maryland. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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

Simple foot stretches and exercises promote strength, flexibility, and long-term mobility, helping prevent pain and stiffness. Strengthening and stretching the feet can enhance stability, balance, and endurance, making daily activities easier and reducing the risk of injury. One effective exercise is toe curls which involves placing a small towel on the floor, and using your toes to scrunch it toward you, then pushing it away. This strengthens arch and toe muscles, supporting foot mechanics. Another beneficial stretch is the calf stretch. Stand facing a wall, place one foot forward and the other back, keeping the back heel down and leaning forward slightly. This stretch targets the Achilles tendon and calf muscles, reducing tension in the feet. Incorporating such exercises regularly can keep your feet healthy. If you would like to learn more about how you can take care of your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can diagnose any foot or ankle problem, provide treatment, and guide you to additional foot care.

Why Stretching Is Important for Your Feet

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Jeffrey L. Bober, 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 to determine 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 exercise, 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 to ice and rest the foot. It is advised that you then see a podiatrist for help.

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

Flat feet, or fallen arches, are common in children and young athletes, where the arch of the foot collapses, causing the entire sole to touch the ground. This condition can be hereditary or develop because of obesity, lack of muscle tone, or improper footwear. Symptoms often include foot pain, fatigue, and difficulty participating in sports or physical activities. Children may also complain of discomfort in their legs or knees due to altered gait mechanics from flat feet. Treatment typically starts with supportive footwear and custom orthotics to provide better arch support. Stretching and strengthening exercises can also help improve foot function. A podiatrist specializes in assessing and treating flat feet, offering personalized care and guidance for young athletes. If your child is experiencing symptoms of flat feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. They can provide an accurate diagnosis and create a tailored treatment plan to enhance your child's athletic performance.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Jeffrey L. Bober, 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 Glen Burnie, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.