Items filtered by date: November 2025

A big toe bone spur, also known as hallux rigidus, is a bony growth that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe. This condition often causes pain and stiffness, limiting mobility. Cheilectomy is a surgical procedure used to treat this condition by removing the bone spur and any damaged tissue from the joint. The main cause of a bone spur in the big toe is osteoarthritis, which leads to the deterioration of cartilage and the growth of bone over time. In some cases, an injury or overuse of the toe can also contribute to the development of such bone spurs. A cheilectomy helps restore movement and reduce pain, allowing patients to return to normal activities. The procedure is often effective for those with moderate symptoms, offering relief from discomfort and improving joint function. If you have pain in your big toe, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if this type of surgery is needed.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Jeffrey L. Bober, DPM 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 our office located in Glen Burnie, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Swollen feet and ankles can occur for many reasons and may signal an underlying health issue. Common causes include eating too much salt, pregnancy, hormonal changes, insect bites, or reactions to certain medications. Swelling can also indicate poor circulation, injury, or inflammation. While mild swelling may resolve with rest and elevation, persistent or painful swelling should not be ignored. A podiatrist can evaluate the cause, perform diagnostic tests, and recommend treatments to reduce discomfort and improve circulation. If your feet or ankles are frequently swollen or painful, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can determine the cause and offer effective relief and treatment remedies.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Jeffrey L. Bober, DPM of Maryland. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

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

Plantar fascial disorders include two common conditions, plantar fasciitis and plantar fibromatosis. Plantar fasciitis occurs when the thick band of tissue on the bottom of the foot becomes inflamed, causing sharp heel pain, especially with the first steps in the morning. Plantar fibromatosis involves the growth of firm nodules within the same tissue, leading to discomfort or lumps along the arch. Both conditions may have possible genetic variants that increase susceptibility to tissue changes or inflammation. A podiatrist can diagnose these disorders through an examination and imaging tests, provide stretching programs, custom orthotics, and advanced therapies to reduce pain and improve mobility. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an expert diagnosis and individualized treatment plan.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Jeffrey L. Bober, DPM of Maryland. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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.

Cracked heels are a common and often painful condition among women, caused by a combination of dry skin, prolonged standing, and hormonal changes. During menopause, reduced estrogen levels can decrease skin elasticity and moisture, leading to thick, dry, or cracked skin around the heels. An autoimmune disorder called Sjögren’s syndrome affects moisture producing glands, causing dryness that contributes to heel fissures. The use of harsh soaps or walking barefoot may worsen the problem. A podiatrist can gently remove thickened skin, recommend moisturizing treatments, suggest proper footwear, and manage underlying causes to restore healthy skin. If you have cracked heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you effective treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication. 

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Jeffrey L. Bober, DPM from Maryland. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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.