There are myths out there about everything from crossing your eyes and spilling salt to carrying a “lucky” rabbit’s foot. There are even myths about foot care. And the podiatrists at We Treat Feet have heard it all. So we would like to share our favorite foot care myths and the realities behind them.
Foot Care Myth #1: Cutting a notch (a “V”) in a toenail will relieve the pain of ingrown toenails.
Reality: When a toenail is ingrown, the nail curves downward and grows into the skin. Cutting a “V” in the toenail does not affect its growth. New nail growth will continue to curve downward. Cutting a “V” may actually cause more problems and is painful in many cases.
Foot Care Myth #2: My foot or ankle can’t be broken if I can walk on it.
Reality: It’s entirely possible to walk on a foot or ankle with a broken bone. It depends on your threshold for pain, as well as the severity of the injury, however it’s not a smart idea. Walking with a broken bone can cause further damage.
It is crucial to stay off an injured foot until diagnosis by a foot and ankle surgeon. Until then, apply ice and elevate the foot to reduce pain.
Foot Care Myth #3: Shoes cause bunions.
Reality: Bunions are most often caused by an inherited faulty mechanical structure of the foot. It is not the bunion itself that is inherited, but certain foot types make a person prone to developing a bunion. While wearing shoes that crowd the toes together can, over time, make bunions more painful, shoes themselves do not cause bunions.
Although some treatments can ease the pain of bunions, only surgery can correct the deformity.
Foot Care Myth #4: A doctor can’t fix a broken toe.
Reality: Nineteen of the 26 bones in the foot are toe bones.
In reality, there are things we can do to make a broken toe heal better and prevent problems later on, like arthritis or toe deformities. Placing toes back into their “normal” position, and making sure there isn’t a dislocation or movement of the fracture is crucial to caring for these injuries.
From bunions to broken toes, the foot and ankle surgeons at We Treat Feet have heard it all
If you have any questions about Foot Care Myths or if you wish to schedule an appointment with one of our podiatric specialists, please contact We Treat Feet Podiatry in Maryland by visiting our website or click here to view our various locations and phone numbers!
About We Treat Feet Podiatry:
We Treat Feet! That’s what we do. From the simplest nail problems, to the most complex foot deformities, we provide exceptional care in a kind and compassionate manner. We offer board certified physicians that have spent years learning the intricate structures and functions of the human foot and ankle. No knees or elbows here, only the best foot and ankle care in Maryland.
From heel pain, bunions, Sports medicine injuries, broken bones, neuromas, hammertoes, and flatfeet to Achilles tendon problems, we have the most modern technology available to help you, including digital x-ray, diagnostic ultrasound, and vascular testing equipment.
Is foot pain making you fat? Well, it actually could be.
According to a recent survey by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), 72% of Americans say they do not exercise because of their foot pain. The study surveyed 1,000 U.S. adults, 18 years of age and older.
It is probably not far fetched to draw a connection between the frequency of foot pain in Americans and the soaring rates of US obesity as reported by the Centers for Disease Control.
Other Findings
• Americans view their feet as the least important body part in terms of their health and well-being.
• Feet were the number one body part to experience pain, even more so than the teeth or skin.
The survey results support the launch of the Today’s Podiatrist campaign, which increases awareness about the specialized medical training and unique qualifications a podiatrist has in treating the foot and ankle.
Foot pain contributes to several health issues. Signs of diabetes, arthritis, and nerve and circulatory disorders can all be detected in the feet. That is why it is important to seek podiatric care immediately if any problems arise.
“Podiatrists are physicians, surgeons and specialists who treat diseases, injuries and deformities of the foot and ankle,” said APMA president Kathleen Stone, DPM. “We should be part of everyone’s health-care team, but it is especially important for those experiencing regular foot pain to seek care from a podiatrist.”
If you have any questions about Foot Pain or if you wish to schedule an appointment with one of our podiatric specialists, please contact We Treat Feet Podiatry in Maryland by visiting our website or click here to view our various locations and phone numbers!
About We Treat Feet Podiatry:
We Treat Feet! That’s what we do. From the simplest nail problems, to the most complex foot deformities, we provide exceptional care in a kind and compassionate manner. We offer board certified physicians that have spent years learning the intricate structures and functions of the human foot and ankle. No knees or elbows here, only the best foot and ankle care in Maryland.
From heel pain, bunions, Sports medicine injuries, broken bones, neuromas, hammertoes, and flatfeet to Achilles tendon problems, we have the most modern technology available to help you, including digital x-ray, diagnostic ultrasound, and vascular testing equipment.
The Q-Clear Laser, which is essentially two lasers in one, was recently approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), for use in general and plastic surgery, dermatology, and podiatry, for the incision, excision, and vaporization of soft tissues. In the field of podiatry, this means the Q-Clear Laser is approved for the following uses:
Matrixectomy: The process of surgically, chemically, or electrically destroying all or part of the base nail portion called the nail matrix.
Removal of Warts: Including periungal, subungal, and plantar warts.
Treatment of Foot Fungus.
Radical Nail Excision: A simple method of treatment for Ingrowing toenails by radical excision of the affected nailfold.
Neuromas: A painful condition, also referred to as a “pinched nerve” or a nerve tumor. It is a benign growth of nerve tissue frequently found between the third and fourth toes that brings on pain, a burning sensation, tingling, or numbness between the toes and in the ball of the foot.
And More!
The Q-Clear Laser can provide superior effect with exceptional patient comfort.
If you have any questions about We Treat Feet’s use of the Q-Clear Laser or if you wish to schedule an appointment with one of our podiatric specialists, please contact We Treat Feet Podiatry in Maryland by visiting our website or click here to view our various locations and phone numbers!
About We Treat Feet Podiatry:
We Treat Feet! That’s what we do. From the simplest nail problems, to the most complex foot deformities, we provide exceptional care in a kind and compassionate manner. We offer board certified physicians that have spent years learning the intricate structures and functions of the human foot and ankle. No knees or elbows here, only the best foot and ankle care in Maryland.
From heel pain, bunions, Sports medicine injuries, broken bones, neuromas, hammertoes, and flatfeet to Achilles tendon problems, we have the most modern technology available to help you, including digital x-ray, diagnostic ultrasound, and vascular testing equipment.
We Treat Feet has recently partnered with Health Care for the Homeless (HCH), an organization dedicated to providing health-related services, education, and advocacy to reduce the incidence and burdens of homelessness.
Established in Baltimore in 1985, HCH has grown to become a nationally recognized model for the delivery of care to underserved populations.
HCH is Maryland’s leading provider of comprehensive health-related services – pediatric, adult, and geriatric medical care, mental health services, social work and case management, addiction treatment, dental care, podiatric care, and HIV services – for adults and children experiencing homelessness. HCH ensures similar services statewide through grants and technical assistance to partner agencies in the City of Frederick and Montgomery, Harford, and Baltimore Counties.
With strong public and private support, HCH is guided by a vision of a future without homelessness in which all Marylanders have access to comprehensive health care, affordable housing, and livable incomes.
We at We Treat Feet would like to encourage you to make an Online Gift. And even if you can’t give a lot, remember, every little bit helps. If you have any questions about We Treat Feet’s involvement with HCH or if you wish to schedule an appointment with one of our podiatric specialists, please contact We Treat Feet Podiatry in Maryland by visiting our website or click here to view our various locations and phone numbers!
About We Treat Feet Podiatry:
We Treat Feet! That’s what we do. From the simplest nail problems, to the most complex foot deformities, we provide exceptional care in a kind and compassionate manner. We offer board certified physicians that have spent years learning the intricate structures and functions of the human foot and ankle. No knees or elbows here, only the best foot and ankle care in Maryland.
From heel pain, bunions, Sports medicine injuries, broken bones, neuromas, hammertoes, and flatfeet to Achilles tendon problems, we have the most modern technology available to help you, including digital x-ray, diagnostic ultrasound, and vascular testing equipment.
Your heel pain may be caused by any number of different conditions, including tendinitis, stress fractures, neuritis, bursitis, tarsal tunnel syndrome, arthritis, and fat pad thinning. However, the number one cause of heel pain is plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of the thick tissue (plantar fascia) on the bottom of the foot that connects the heel bone to the toes and creates the arch of the foot.
Plantar Fasciitis occurs when the thick band of tissue on the bottom of the foot is overstretched or overused, making it painful to walk.
Plantar Fasciitis Risk Factors
• Obesity or sudden weight gain
• Foot arch problems, like flat feet and high arches
• Long-distance running
• Tight Achilles tendon
• Shoes with poor arch support or soft soles
• Walking barefoot
• Walking on hard surfaces without proper support
Signs andSymptoms of Plantar Fasciitis
• Pain and stiffness in the bottom of the heel
• Tenderness on the bottom of your foot
• Flat feet or high arches
• Foot swelling
• Redness
Plantar Fasciitis Treatment
Once your podiatrist examines your feet and determines the cause of your pain, you may be treated immediately with options such as custom orthotics, steroid injections, prescription medications, physical therapy, and immobilization. Depending on your response to treatment, your pain may require more advanced treatments or surgery. Talk to your podiatrist about what avenue of treatment is best for you.
Please contact We Treat Feet if you think you may have a heel disorder.
If you have any questions or if you wish to schedule an appointment, please contact We Treat Feet Podiatry in Maryland by visiting our website or click here to view our various locations and phone numbers!
About We Treat Feet Podiatry:
We Treat Feet! That’s what we do. From the simplest nail problems, to the most complex foot deformities, we provide exceptional care in a kind and compassionate manner. We offer board certified physicians that have spent years learning the intricate structures and functions of the human foot and ankle. No knees or elbows here, only the best foot and ankle care in Maryland.
From heel pain, bunions, Sports medicine injuries, broken bones, neuromas, hammertoes, and flatfeet to Achilles tendon problems, we have the most modern technology available to help you, including digital x-ray, diagnostic ultrasound, and vascular testing equipment.
On January 30, 2012, at 5:00 pm, We Treat Feat podiatrist Dr. Patrick Felton will be featured on ESPN Radio 1300 AM. He will be discussing how athletes can improve running performance through biometrics and gait analysis, as well as common foot issues athletes encounter.
Dr. Felton specializes in podiatric sports medicine, conservative care for biomechanical abnormalities, and surgical management of structural and functional abnormalities of the foot. In his spare time, he coaches lacrosse and soccer with the Lutherville Timonium Recreational Council. Dr. Felton has been heavily involved in athletics and outdoor activities throughout his entire life.
He played intercollegiate lacrosse at Millersville University and played ice hockey for Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine.
He is licensed with USA Cycling and participates in all forms of competitive cycling.
He is licensed with USA Triathlon and participates in Duathlons (run, bike, run)
He participates in 5K events along with his family
If you have any questions for Dr. Felton, please call in live during the interview (410-481-1300). Or if you wish to schedule an appointment, please contact We Treat Feet Podiatry in Maryland by visiting our website or clicking here to view our various locations and phone numbers!
We Treat Feet! That’s what we do. From the simplest nail problems, to the most complex foot deformities, we provide exceptional care in a kind and compassionate manner. We offer board certified physicians that have spent years learning the intricate structures and functions of the human foot and ankle. No knees or elbows here, only the best foot and ankle care in Maryland.
From heel pain, bunions, Sports medicine injuries, broken bones, neuromas, hammertoes, and flatfeet to Achilles tendon problems, we have the most modern technology available to help you, including digital x-ray, diagnostic ultrasound, and vascular testing equipment.
Over the last several months, the doctors and staff at We Treat Feet Podiatry in Maryland gave back to the community in several ways. These included:
1. In the spirit of community support, we have been asking patients for a contribution for paper feet to decorate the walls of our four offices. We would like to thank everyone for their overwhelming support of this great cause!
2. TheNight of Peace Family Shelter asked We Treat Feet to purchase air mattresses for their guests to sleep on. That’s what we did! We Treat Feet bought enough air mattresses to keep The Night of Peace Family Shelter fully stocked!
3. We Treat Feet partnered with Dr. Comfort Shoes to secure over 200 pairs of donated shoes over the Holiday Season. Some of our donations partners included Hannah More Shelter, Night of Peace Family Shelter and Healthcare for the Homeless.
4. While many individuals, families, and organizations adopt a family over the holidays, We Treat Feet wanted to do more. So we adopted an entire shelter!
The staff of We Treat Feet partnered with The Night of Peace Family Shelter on December 6th, 2011 to make guests of the shelter a festive holiday dinner, consisting of fried chicken, spaghetti and meatballs, stuffing, corn and many homemade holiday desserts. We would like to thankTrader Joe’s in Pikesville who donated all of the food! Furthermore, we brought gifts for all the children, as well as shoes for the men and women.
About We Treat Feet Podiatry:
We Treat Feet! That’s what we do. From the simplest nail problems, to the most complex foot deformities, we provide exceptional care in a kind and compassionate manner. We offer board certified physicians that have spent years learning the intricate structures and functions of the human foot and ankle. No knees or elbows here, only the best foot and ankle care in Maryland.
From heel pain, bunions, Sports medicine injuries, broken bones, neuromas, hammertoes, and flatfeet to Achilles tendon problems, we have the most modern technology available to help you, including digital x-ray, diagnostic ultrasound, and vascular testing equipment.
If you have any questions or if you wish to schedule an appointment, please contact We Treat Feet Podiatry in Maryland by visiting our website or click here to view our various locations and phone numbers!
At We Treat Feet, our physician team is well trained and highly skilled, offering treatments for people of all ages, from infants to seniors. So let’s get to know one of our doctors just a little better…
Dr. D. Gordon McCrary III
Podiatric Specialties: At We Treat Feet Podiatry, Dr. McCrary specializes in both arthroscopic and open management of forefoot pathologies, complex rear foot and ankle pathologies, and reconstructive surgery. He also has extensive experience managing diabetic wounds and foot infections.
Podiatric Education and Experience: Dr. McCrary received his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine from Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Then, Dr. McCrary completed an intensive three-year podiatric surgical residency through the Kaiser Permanente North Bay Consortium in Vallejo, CA, outside San Francisco.
Home Life: Currently living in Baltimore, Maryland, Dr. McCrary is an avid runner who has completed both the Dallas White Rock and Philadelphia marathons. He now has his sights set on the Baltimore Running Festival.
If you have any questions for Dr. McCrary or if you wish to schedule an appointment, please contact We Treat Feet Podiatry in Maryland by visiting our website or click here to view our various locations and phone numbers!
We Treat Feet! That’s what we do. From the simplest nail problems, to the most complex foot deformities, we provide exceptional care in a kind and compassionate manner. We offer board certified physicians that have spent years learning the intricate structures and functions of the human foot and ankle. No knees or elbows here, only the best foot and ankle care in Maryland.
From heel pain, bunions, Sports medicine injuries, broken bones, neuromas, hammertoes, and flatfeet to Achilles tendon problems, we have the most modern technology available to help you, including digital x-ray, diagnostic ultrasound, and vascular testing equipment.
At We Treat Feet, our physician team is well trained and highly skilled, offering treatments for people of all ages, from infants to seniors. So let’s get to know one of our doctors just a little better…
Dr. Patrick Felton
Podiatric Specialties: Dr. Felton specializes in podiatric sports medicine, conservative care for biomechanical abnormalities, and surgical management of structural and functional abnormalities of the foot.
Education and Experience: Below is a brief history of Dr. Felton’s educational background, training, and experiences:
• Undergraduate Education: Millersville University (PA), B.S. Biology 1993
• Athletic Trainer, Millersville University 1988-1993
• Graduate Education: Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine, D.P.M 1997
• Residency: Lebanon V.A. Medical Center, 1997-1999
• Assistant Team Physician, Manheim Central High School 1997-1999
• Podiatric Advisor, Harrisburg (PA) Road Runners Club 1997-1999
• Medical Co-Director, Harrisburg Marathon 1997-1999
• Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Team in Training Podiatric Advisor 2002-2005
• American Youth Football League (South Florida Division) Team Podiatrist 2001-2004
• American Youth Soccer Organization Chapter 644 Medical Director, 2000-2005
• Weston (FL) Warrior Lacrosse Team Physician, 2001-2006
• Medical Director, Coral Springs Little League Baseball 2005-2006
• Medical Director, Orange Classic Soccer Tournament, 2000-2005
• Medical Director, Plantation (FL) Eagles Thanksgiving Soccer Tournament 2004-2005
• Member of NHL Florida Panthers’ All-Star Team of Physicians, 2004-2006
• Podiatric Guest Lecturer, Merrit Athletic Clubs
• Podiatric Guest Lecturer, Charm City Run Marathon and Half-Marathon Training Groups
• Podiatric Guest Lecturer, Tri-Speed Multisport Triathlon Store and Triathlon Groups
Home Life: Originally from the Pennsylvania, Dr. Felton moved to the Baltimore area in 2008 in order to be closer to home. In his spare time, he coaches lacrosse and soccer with the Lutherville Timonium Recreational Council. Dr. Felton has been heavily involved in athletics and outdoor activities throughout his entire life.
• He played intercollegiate lacrosse at Millersville University and played ice hockey for Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine.
• He is licensed with USA Cycling and participates in all forms of competitive cycling.
• He is licensed with USA Triathlon and participates in Duathlons (run, bike, run)
• He participates in 5K events along with his family
If you have any questions for Dr. Felton or if you wish to schedule an appointment, please contact We Treat Feet Podiatry in Maryland by visiting our website or click here to view our various locations and phone numbers!
We Treat Feet! That’s what we do. From the simplest nail problems, to the most complex foot deformities, we provide exceptional care in a kind and compassionate manner. We offer board certified physicians that have spent years learning the intricate structures and functions of the human foot and ankle. No knees or elbows here, only the best foot and ankle care in Maryland.
From heel pain, bunions, Sports medicine injuries, broken bones, neuromas, hammertoes, and flatfeet to Achilles tendon problems, we have the most modern technology available to help you, including digital x-ray, diagnostic ultrasound, and vascular testing equipment.
At We Treat Feet, our physician team is well trained and highly skilled, offering treatments for people of all ages, from infants to seniors. So let’s get to know one of our doctors just a little better…
Dr. Mikel Daniels
Podiatric Specialties: At We Treat Feet, Dr. Daniels offers the latest techniques in foot and ankle surgery, including postoperative pain buster pumps, minimally invasive foot surgery, and the removal of painful skin lesions (corns and calluses).
Education and Experience: Dr. Daniels is a board certified foot surgeon, a distinction he received from the American Board of Podiatric Surgery, and a graduate of both Muhlenberg College and the Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine. He is also a member of several specialty organizations, including:
• The American Podiatric Medical Association
• The Maryland Podiatric Medical Association
• The American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons
Dr. Daniels has also served as a consultant for multiple biomedical companies and instrument/equipment manufactures and is on the speakers panel for companies such as Pfizer for Lyrica, New Deal/Integra for the MBA Subtalar implant, and Merete Medical for the Metafix locking plate system.
Home Life: Dr. Daniels is happily married to his wife Melissa and the couple has 2 sons, Elliot and Ethan.
If you have any questions for Dr. Daniels or if you wish to schedule an appointment, please contact We Treat Feet Podiatry in Maryland by visiting our website or click here to view our various locations and phone numbers!
We Treat Feet! That’s what we do. From the simplest nail problems, to the most complex foot deformities, we provide exceptional care in a kind and compassionate manner. We offer board certified physicians that have spent years learning the intricate structures and functions of the human foot and ankle. No knees or elbows here, only the best foot and ankle care in Maryland.
From heel pain, bunions, Sports medicine injuries, broken bones, neuromas, hammertoes, and flatfeet to Achilles tendon problems, we have the most modern technology available to help you, including digital x-ray, diagnostic ultrasound, and vascular testing equipment.