Diabetes can affect the feet by reducing circulation and damaging nerves, a condition known as peripheral neuropathy. This may cause numbness, tingling, or burning sensations, making it harder to notice cuts, blisters, or pressure points. At the same time, poor blood flow can slow healing, which increases the risk of infection and more serious complications. The feet may appear dry, cracked, or swollen, and even small wounds can become concerning, if not treated early. A podiatrist plays an important role in diabetic foot care by performing regular exams, identifying problem areas, and providing routine nail and skin care. Treatment includes careful removal of thickened skin, wound care, custom orthotics, and guidance on proper footwear to reduce pressure. Education on daily foot inspection and hygiene is also essential to prevent complications. If you have diabetes and notice any changes in your feet, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious condition.   

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Mitchell Barber, DPM from Barber Podiatry . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Sever’s disease is a common cause of heel pain in growing adolescents, especially those involved in sports. It is an overuse condition that affects the growth plate in the heel, where repetitive stress leads to inflammation and discomfort. This occurs when the heel bone grows faster than the surrounding muscles and tendons, creating tension and irritation. Risk factors include rapid growth, high activity levels, and wearing improper footwear. Symptoms often include heel pain during activity, tenderness, and limping. A podiatrist can evaluate the condition, recommend supportive footwear, provide custom orthotics, and guide stretching and activity modification. Early care can relieve pain and prevent worsening symptoms. If your active child is limping or has heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose the problem, and offer effective relief solutions.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Mitchell Barber, DPM from Barber Podiatry . 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 office located in Laurel, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete’s foot can affect children and teens, especially those who are active, wear closed shoes for long periods of time, or spend time in locker rooms and around pools. This condition is caused by a fungus that thrives in warm, moist environments. It may appear as peeling skin, redness, itching, or small cracks between the toes. Some young people  may also have dryness or mild discomfort on the soles of the feet. Because symptoms can be subtle, it may go unnoticed at first. Prevention starts with keeping feet clean and dry. Encourage kids to change socks daily, choose breathable shoes, and allow shoes to air out between uses. Wearing flip flops in public wet areas can also help reduce exposure. If you notice signs of athlete’s foot in your children, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Mitchell Barber, DPM from Barber Podiatry .  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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

Foot pain is easy to ignore at first. Many people assume it will go away on its own or blame it on being on their feet too long. However, pain in the foot is often a sign that something is not working properly. Problems such as plantar fasciitis, tendon strain, arthritis, stress fractures, or nerve irritation can all begin with mild discomfort. Without treatment, these conditions may gradually worsen and begin to affect walking, balance, and daily activity. A podiatrist is a medical specialist trained to diagnose and treat conditions of the foot and ankle. They can identify the cause of pain through a physical exam, imaging, and a review of your activity and footwear. Early care often leads to simpler treatment and faster relief. If you are experiencing ongoing foot pain, swelling, or tenderness, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide a diagnosis and appropriate treatment needed to keep you active and comfortable.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Mitchell Barber, DPM from Barber Podiatry . 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 Laurel, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Persistent plantar fasciitis can make it difficult to stay active and enjoy everyday movement. The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot and supports the arch. When this tissue becomes irritated or strained, it often causes sharp heel pain, especially during the first steps in the morning or after long periods of sitting. Many people try to push through the discomfort, but ongoing strain can worsen the condition. Walking, exercising, or even standing for long periods may become uncomfortable. Over time, reduced activity can affect overall health and limit participation in favorite hobbies such as walking, fitness classes, or recreational sports. Wearing supportive footwear, gentle stretching, and rest may help reduce irritation in the early stages. When heel pain is persistent and continues or interferes with daily activity, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Mitchell Barber, DPM  from Barber Podiatry . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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