Pain in the ball of the foot can make everyday activities such as walking or standing uncomfortable. This area of the foot contains the metatarsal bones, which are the long bones that connect the middle of the foot to the toes. Several different problems can cause pain in this region. Common causes include stress fractures, nerve irritation, inflammation of the joints, or a condition called metatarsalgia, which develops when too much pressure is placed on the front of the foot. Because many conditions produce similar symptoms, it can sometimes be difficult to determine the exact cause during a basic exam. Imaging tests may be helpful in these situations. MRI scans allow podiatrists to see bones and soft tissues in greater detail. This helps identify the true source of the problem. If you have ongoing pain in the ball of the foot, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Darlyne Cange, DPM  from Cange Podiatry, DPM, PA. 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 offices located in Glen Burnie and Ellicott City, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that causes chronic inflammation in the joints. The immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints, leading to swelling, stiffness, and pain. The feet and ankles are often affected because they contain many small joints that help support body weight and movement. People with rheumatoid arthritis may notice tenderness in the forefoot, arch discomfort, ankle instability, or gradual changes in foot shape. Ongoing inflammation can weaken ligaments and damage joint surfaces, and over time, make walking more difficult. Management often focuses on reducing stress on the affected joints while maintaining mobility. Wearing supportive footwear, custom orthotics, and activity modification can help reduce pressure during daily movement. Targeted exercises may also help preserve flexibility and strength. When foot or ankle pain related to rheumatoid arthritis begins to limit comfort or mobility, it is suggested that a podiatrist evaluate the condition and recommend appropriate treatment.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact Darlyne Cange, DPM of Cange Podiatry, DPM, PA. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

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

Gout flare-ups can cause intense foot pain, especially in the big toe, where uric acid crystals build up in the joint and lead to sudden swelling, warmth, and redness. These episodes often begin without warning and make it difficult to put pressure on the foot or move the affected toe or ankle. Gout is a type of chronic  arthritis that is long-term and treatable, but not curable. Repeated gout flares can occur if uric acid levels rise again. Shoes with inadequate support, prolonged standing, and dehydration can place extra stress on sensitive joints and worsen discomfort during a gout flare. Untreated gout can damage the soft tissue inside the affected joint and increase the risk of serious kidney problems. A podiatrist can evaluate joint swelling, test uric acid levels to confirm the diagnosis, and prescribe medication to help reduce symptoms. If you have pain from gout, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and managed care.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Darlyne Cange, DPM from Cange Podiatry, DPM, PA. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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

Sever’s disease is a condition that causes inflammation of the growth plate in the heel of children and adolescents, leading to heel pain and tenderness. It often occurs during periods of rapid growth when the bones, muscles, and tendons are developing at different rates. Children who are active in running, jumping, or sports are particularly at risk, as repetitive stress places additional strain on the heel. Diagnosis is typically based on a physical examination, medical history, and evaluation of activity patterns. A podiatrist can provide stretching exercises, footwear recommendations, supportive orthotics, and strategies to reduce pain and inflammation. If your active child has heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and management tips.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Darlyne Cange, DPM from Cange Podiatry, DPM, PA. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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