Morton's neuroma is a painful condition involving the thickening of tissue surrounding one of the nerves leading to the toes, most commonly between the third and fourth toes. This irritation causes nerve compression, often resulting in a sharp, burning pain in the ball of the foot, as well as numbness or tingling in the toes. The condition can be triggered by repetitive stress, improper footwear, or foot deformities like flat feet or high arches. Wearing tight shoes or high heels can place added pressure on the forefoot, increasing the risk of developing this condition. Athletes who engage in high-impact sports may also be more vulnerable. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you promptly contact a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Darlyne Cange, DPM of Cange Podiatry, DPM, PA. 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 offices located in Glen Burnie and Ellicott City, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A ruptured, or torn Achilles tendon is a serious injury that can significantly affect movement of the foot and ankle. The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, which make walking, running, jumping, and standing on the toes possible. Achilles tendon ruptures often occur during sports that require sudden changes in direction or explosive leg movements, such as basketball, tennis, or soccer. A complete rupture typically causes a sharp pain in the back of the ankle, sometimes with a popping sound. This is followed by difficulty pointing the toes downward or bearing weight. A podiatrist can evaluate the injury through a physical exam and imaging tests to determine the extent of the tear. Surgery is often recommended for a full rupture to reattach the torn tendon, especially in younger or more active patients. After surgery, a podiatrist may use a cast or boot to immobilize the foot during healing. Prompt treatment is important to reduce the risk of long-term weakness or re-injury. If you have torn or injured your Achilles tendon, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Darlyne Cange, DPM of Cange Podiatry, DPM, PA. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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 tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Webbed toes, medically known as syndactyly, occur when two or more toes are fused together by skin, soft tissue, or bone. This condition develops during fetal growth when the toes fail to separate completely. It is a congenital trait, meaning it is present at birth and can run in families. Genetic factors play a significant role, though environmental influences during pregnancy may also contribute. Webbed toes are usually harmless and do not affect function, but in some cases, they may be associated with certain genetic syndromes. The degree of fusion varies, with some cases involving only skin while others include deeper connective tissues. If webbed toes cause discomfort or affect mobility, surgical separation may be an option. If you or your child have webbed toes that are causing any pain or difficulty in completing daily tasks, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for treatment options.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Darlyne Cange, DPM of Cange Podiatry, DPM, PA. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.

What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?

A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.

What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?

Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:

• Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
• Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
• Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
• Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
• Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
• Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Treatment and Prevention

While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.

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.

Fungal toenail infections usually begin at the tip or sides of the toenail and may cause discoloration, thickening, and crumbling of the nail surface. In some cases, the nail may lift from the nail bed or become painful if the surrounding skin becomes inflamed. While fungal toenail infections are common, they can be difficult to clear without medical treatment. A podiatrist can examine the toenail and confirm the infection through a laboratory test. Based on the findings, oral antifungal medication may be prescribed, often requiring several months of consistent use. These medications target the infection from within and support the regrowth of healthy nail tissue. Because oral antifungals can affect liver function, a podiatrist may request blood tests before and during treatment. If the infection is severe and the nail is extensively damaged, surgery to remove part or all of the nail might be recommended. This can help eliminate the infection and allow a clear nail to grow back. If you believe you have a toenail infection, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

For more information about treatment, contact Darlyne Cange, DPM of Cange Podiatry, DPM, PA. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

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