Foot drop makes it difficult to lift the front part of the foot while walking. Instead of being a disease itself, it is a sign of an underlying problem affecting the muscles or nerves that control foot movement. People with foot drop may drag their toes, lift their knee higher than usual, or have trouble clearing the foot with each step. Some individuals also experience numbness, weakness, or tingling in the foot or lower leg. These symptoms can increase the risk of trips and falls, making everyday activities more challenging. Because foot drop can have several causes, a professional evaluation is important to identify the underlying condition and determine the most appropriate treatment.

Foot drop may develop after a nerve injury or as the result of certain muscle or neurological conditions. In some cases, pressure on a nerve can interfere with normal communication between the brain and the muscles that lift the foot. As walking mechanics change, extra stress may be placed on the ankle, knee, and hip. This altered movement can also affect balance and reduce overall mobility. A thorough podiatry evaluation helps assess foot function, muscle strength, and walking patterns. Additional testing may be recommended to identify the source of the problem and guide treatment planning.

A podiatrist plays an important role in evaluating foot drop and helping patients improve foot function and mobility. Professional care focuses on identifying the cause of the condition, improving walking mechanics, and reducing the risk of complications related to abnormal movement. Treatment is tailored to each patient's needs and may involve coordination with other healthcare providers when appropriate. Early podiatry care can help improve stability and support safer movement during daily activities. If you are experiencing foot weakness, difficulty lifting your foot, or changes in the way you walk, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Jeffrey L. Bober, 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 Glen Burnie, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that involves thickening of the tissue surrounding a nerve in the forefoot. It most commonly develops between the third and fourth toes and results from repeated irritation or compression of the nerve. This condition is not a true tumor, but rather a response to chronic stress. Causes include wearing tight or high-heeled shoes, repetitive impact activities, and abnormal foot mechanics such as flat feet or high arches. These factors place pressure on the nerve and lead to inflammation.

Symptoms of Morton's neuroma often include a burning sensation in the ball of the foot, tingling in the toes, and a feeling as if a small object is trapped inside the shoe. Pain may worsen with walking or standing for long periods of time. Some individuals experience numbness or sharp discomfort that radiates into the toes. Symptoms may improve when shoes are removed or when the foot is massaged, but they often return with activity.

Diagnosis typically involves a clinical evaluation by a foot specialist. A podiatrist will assess symptoms, examine foot structure, and apply pressure to identify the affected area. Imaging tests such as ultrasounds or MRI scans may be used to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions. Early diagnosis is important to prevent symptoms from worsening.The outlook for Morton’s neuroma depends on the structure of the foot, and whether or not simple treatments are effective. These can include wearing optimal footwear and resting the foot. When surgery is performed, the outlook depends on how much residual nerve damage exists.

Risk factors include wearing narrow shoes, participating in high-impact sporting activities, and having structural foot abnormalities. Women are more commonly affected due to footwear choices that compress the forefoot. Managing pressure and improving foot support are key to reducing symptoms. If you have symptoms of Morton's neuroma, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Jeffrey L. Bober, 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 Glen Burnie, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A broken ankle is an injury that occurs when one or more bones in the ankle are cracked or fractured. The ankle is made up of several bones, ligaments, and tissues that work together to support movement and balance. A fracture can happen from a fall, sports injury, accident, or sudden twisting motion. Ankle fractures can affect a person’s ability to stand, walk, and complete daily activities comfortably. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, tenderness, and difficulty putting weight on the affected foot. Some patients may notice changes in the appearance of the ankle or a feeling of instability. A podiatrist can evaluate the injury and determine the severity of the fracture.

A podiatrist performs a detailed examination to understand the extent of an ankle fracture and how it affects foot and ankle function. The evaluation includes reviewing the injury, checking movement, and assessing the condition of the surrounding tissues. Imaging tests may be used to view the bones and identify the location of the fracture. A podiatrist develops a treatment plan based on the type of fracture, the patient’s health, and activity needs. Treatment includes methods to support proper healing, protect the injured area, and restore ankle function. 

Research shows that ankle fractures can affect mobility and long-term joint function, making proper diagnosis and treatment important. A podiatrist helps patients understand their injury and creates a plan focused on restoring strength, stability, and movement. Care may involve monitoring healing progress and addressing changes in foot mechanics after the injury. A podiatrist also evaluates how the ankle is functioning because changes in movement can affect other areas of the foot and lower body. Treatment plans are personalized according to each patient’s condition and recovery goals. If you have symptoms of a broken ankle, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a chiropractor for diagnosis and treatment.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Jeffrey L. Bober, DPM from Maryland. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
• Swelling around the area
• Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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.

Bunions are bony bumps that develop at the base of the big toe, while the joint gradually shifts out of its normal position. As the big toe moves toward the smaller toes, the joint becomes more prominent and may become painful over time. Bunions often develop slowly and may be influenced by inherited foot structure, arthritis, or long-term pressure on the joint. As the deformity progresses, walking and wearing shoes can become increasingly uncomfortable. The skin over the bunion may become irritated, and the surrounding joint may lose flexibility. Because bunions tend to worsen without proper care, a professional evaluation is important to determine the severity of the problem and recommend appropriate treatment. Early podiatry care may also help preserve joint function and reduce discomfort.

Symptoms of a bunion vary depending on its size and progression. Many people experience pain, swelling, or redness around the base of the big toe. Others notice stiffness or difficulty bending the toe during walking. As the joint changes shape, shoes may fit poorly and place additional pressure on the affected area. Some individuals also develop corns or calluses because the toes begin rubbing against one another. Ongoing discomfort can interfere with work, exercise, and everyday activities. Identifying the problem early allows treatment to begin before the deformity continues to progress and affects overall foot function.

A podiatrist specializes in diagnosing and treating bunions and other foot conditions that affect mobility. During an examination, the podiatrist evaluates the alignment of the foot, reviews symptoms, and determines the extent of the bunion before creating an individualized treatment plan. Treatment focuses on relieving pain, improving joint function, and slowing further changes to the affected joint whenever possible. Early podiatry care may also help patients remain active and improve overall foot health. If you are experiencing bunion pain, swelling, or difficulty walking, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Jeffrey L. Bober, DPM of Maryland. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Podiatrists often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your provider.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• 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.