Questions and Answers with the area’s Top Medical Professionals
What is a “Mommy Makeover”?
Many moms are finding that diet and exercise just aren’t enough to counteract the effects pregnancy has had on their body. Breastfeeding can dramatically change the volume and shape of the breast while the stretching of the skin in the tummy area can leave loose sagging skin that cannot be tightened through sit ups and crunches. A “Mommy Makeover” is a combination of surgical procedures designed to regain their pre-pregnancy body. Procedures that can be performed together include:
- Breast lift with or without the insertion of an implant – not necessarily to increase size – but to correct volume and placement of the breast prior to pregnancy.
- Tummy Tuck to correct loose, sagging skin.
- Liposuction for stubborn fat pockets not affected by diet and exercise.
Dr. Christopher Spittler, M.D., Plastic Surgery Specialists
How has the pandemic affected your patients and what problems are you seeing arise from the changes in lifestyle over the past year and a half?
Many patients have begun working from home over the past year and a half. We are regularly seeing pains and pathologies directly related to our patients not wearing shoes inside their houses on their hard floors. The lack of support, protection and cushioning on the feet can lead to injury, but what we are seeing the most are increased cases of plantar fasciitis, metatarsalgia, toe fractures and neuromas. We have convinced patients to buy a supportive athletic shoe to wear in the house to help current problems and prevent future ones.
Dr. McKee, Podiatry Group of Annapolis
How has the office adapted and what are you doing to ensure your staff and patients are safe?
Philbin & Reinheimer Orthodontics understand these are unprecedented times. We are doing everything we can to ensure your smile doesn’t fade while we push through this together. Our offices have been air fogged and there are new safety and sterilization protocols in place for patients and staff. To adapt to these extraordinary times, we’ve initiated Virtual Consultations!
Dr. Ora Reinheimer, Philbin & Reinheimer Orthodontics
Do women suffer from low libido?
Yes! Hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) is the most common female sexual health complaint affecting as many as 1 in 10 women. It is a chronic decrease in sexual desire which causes personal distress and relationship strain. This can be caused by underlying medical conditions, medications, hormonal changes, stress, or other sexual problems. There are several treatment strategies including medication. There are two FDA approved medications for HSDD in premenopausal women, an on-demand injectable medication and a daily oral medication. Testosterone is often used for treatment in postmenopausal women.
Dr. Kari Bailey, AA Urology
I want to restore volume loss to my breasts but also think I might need a lift, and those scars worry me. What should I do?
Women often express this concern during a consultation leading up to the examination, only to be pleasantly surprised that their “droop” is not as bad as they thought and that they just “need” augmentation with saline or silicone breast implants, which can be placed using small inconspicuous scars. In advance of your consultation look online at some before and after photos making sure the “before” looks like you and the “after” is your goal look. When you look I think you might agree that lifted breasts with scars look better than droopy looking breasts without.
JAMES E. CHAPPELL, MD, FACS, Annapolis Plastic Surgery
What can dental implants do for me?
Dental implants have become a proven and durable solution for missing teeth. Implants can serve as support for a single tooth, help stabilize many teeth in the form of removable dentures, or even provide fixed solutions for all teeth that are not removable by the patient. With today’s technology, this can often be completed in the same day that the teeth are removed, which helps to insure the individual’s quality of life.
SCOTT FINLAY, DDS, Annapolis Smiles
I’m interested in getting lip filler but I’ve never had injections before. Where should I start?
Lip filler is one of my favorite procedures because patients see immediate results! As with any cosmetic treatment, it’s important to start with a consultation. During an O’Donnell Vein and Laser consultation, we’ll discuss the results you’re looking to achieve, talk about expectations regarding the procedure and any potential discomfort or downtime, and if you’re ready to move forward, we’ll design your treatment plan. We’ll ensure you’re well informed about how to take care of your lips both before and after the procedure and that you’re completely comfortable with your decision. We pride ourselves on the quality of our customer care just as much as we do our results!
Ali Weiss, Aesthetic NP, O’Donnell Vein & Laser
Should it matter who does my dental implant?
Yes, it’s especially critical if it’s a front tooth, you show a lot of gum in your smile, or it’s congenitally missing. Careful planning by an experienced, cosmetically trained dentist is required to achieve a realistic, natural result. Sometimes soft tissue grafting, bone grafting, or even orthodontics is required. Make sure your dentist works with a master ceramicist, perhaps certified by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentists.
DR. MEREDITH ESPOSITO, Chesapeake Dental Arts
What Does it Mean to be a “Trauma-Informed” Therapy and Business Practice?
The words “Trauma-Informed” is an approach to therapy and business grounded in 6-Guiding Principles. They are Trustworthiness and Transparency, Peer-Support, Collaboration and Mutuality, Empowerment and Choice, and Cultural, Historical and Gender Issues.
At Anchored Hope Therapy, we are intentional about every decision we make to support both our clients and our team of therapists. This includes promoting work-life balance and self-care for our team. We believe you cannot pour from an empty cup. In addition, it is about creating a therapy space that is inclusive and feels safe and a therapy culture that is authentic and supportive for our clients. We strive to partner with our clients in their journey to promote growth and recognize resilience. We are aware that mental health therapy has historically felt unsafe for many, including marginalized populations, and we aim to provide services that intersect with social justice efforts and are grounded in the above trauma-informed care principles.
Chelsea M. Haverly, LCSW-C & Christine Coyle, LCSW-C, Anchored Hope Therapy
How do cataracts form?
A cataract occurs when there is a buildup of proteins in the lens, creating protein clumps. These clumps, or deposits, prevent light from passing clearly through the lens, thus disrupting normal vision. A patient with a cataract cannot see images clearly. Instead, images appear cloudy or blurry, especially at night. Cataracts can begin to affect the patient’s ability to perform simple, everyday tasks like reading and driving. Cataract surgery is the recommended treatment in these cases and has a 98% success rate.
DR. SAMUEL BOLES, Anne Arundel Eye Center
I think I have a bunion, should I have surgery now?
Surgery should always be a last step treatment approach when addressing the majority of foot and ankle pathologies. It is also possible for patients to have bunions without any pain. Typically bunions cause patient’s pain because the deformity causes your forefoot to be wide. Certain shoes, such as tapered toed boots, some clogs, flats and high heels can cause rubbing and discomfort during walking and can sometimes even progress the deformity further. Trying more healthy shoe gear with a wider toe box (or forefoot area of the shoe) can keep you comfortable as well as using silicone bunion sleeves to prevent rubbing in your more “dressy” shoes. It is not possible to conservatively reverse the deformity, but if conservative treatments fail and your quality of life is suffering due to the discomfort, surgery is a reasonable treatment plan.
Dr. Weaver, Podiatry Group of Annapolis
Can you share an industry secret?
Practice makes perfect. The best injectors are constantly improving their techniques with experience and refining their skills both in and out of the office. Did we mention that ProMD Health does 5 times the national average of cosmetic injections per provider?
Dr. AMY FLEMING, PA-C, ProMD Health
How has your industry changed over the years?
People are spending more time on their phones and tech devices. Not only does this harmful blue light accelerate aging, but the rise of video calls has made our patients seek us out to look their best on-screen without the need for the perfect lighting. The growing acceptance of aesthetic treatments has empowered both men and women to consider our services as an investment in themselves to Look and Feel better for longer.
Dr. George Gavrila, ProMD Health
Plastic teeth aligners are much less expensive by mail order. Why would I go to an orthodontist to have my teeth straightened?
Mail-order orthodontic companies make it sound easy – take a selfie, receive your aligners – and then……. straight teeth! However, aligners are meant to move teeth within the confines of each patient’s specific anatomy: muscles, bones, lips, and cheeks. A computer doesn’t know 1) where your bones and muscles are, 2) if the underlying foundation is healthy, 3) how your lips/cheeks are influencing your tooth positioning. A computer is programmed only to make the teeth look straight, regardless of the patient’s anatomy. Without an Orthodontist’s in-person evaluation and supervision, movement of teeth done incorrectly can lead to irreversible damage to your teeth, gums, and underlying bone, and to changes in your bite, which will contribute to jaw-joint dysfunction. Remember there’s so much more to creating a healthy, beautiful smile than moving only the visible part of your teeth.
Mairead M. O’Reilly, DDS, MS, Dr. Mairead M. O’Reilly Orthodontics
What are Dental Implants?
When you are missing teeth, you may feel uncomfortable eating, speaking or worst of all SMILING. Dental implants offer a permanent solution to these problems. Dental implants are titanium replacements for missing teeth that act as a strong foundation to support new crowns, bridges or anchor slipping dentures. The implant procedure is painless and involves placing the implant under the gums and into the jawbone just like the roots of your own natural teeth. Recovery time is usually no more than 24 hours and total treatment time from the day of your implant placement to the time of attaching the new teeth range from 2 months to as little as 1 day. Dental implants are the next best thing to your own teeth...
IT’S TIME TO SMILE AGAIN!
NEIL SULLIVAN, DMD, Oral Surgery Specialists
My hair is thinning and falling out and I would like to know what are my options to maintain or even restore my hair?
Hair maintenance/restoration has really progressed over the last 5 years. We are fortunate to be able to offer patients both non-surgical and surgical treatments. Platelet rich plasma (PRP) injections alone can help restore thinning hair. These growth-factor-rich PRP treatments are often supplemented with topical and oral medications. We also offer state-of-the-art NeoGraft follicular unit extraction (FUE) technique to repopulate areas of baldness and thinning hair. This in office technique leaves no visible scarring and has a 98% success rate.
BRYAN T., AMBRO, MD, MS, Annapolis Plastic Surgery
Some direct-to-consumer orthodontic companies make treatment sound so easy and after so many months – straight teeth! What else should I be concerned about?
Orthodontics is more than just the movement of the part of teeth you can see. X-rays of your teeth and jaw are crucial so the doctor can see what the naked eye can’t. A clinical exam of your jaw alignment, and the relationship of your teeth to your skeletal structure is imperative. What if there were an issue during treatment? Who would you contact that would care about your health and end-result?
Remember! Orthodontics isn’t a product – it’s a professional, medical service. When your care is supervised by an orthodontist, you are assured that your orthodontist spent 2-3 more years studying beyond dental school.
DR. STEPHEN LABBE, DDS, Labbe Family Orthodontics
I want my eyes done but I still want to look like myself. What is your secret?
Laser eyelid surgery allows me to carefully remove or reposition just the right amount of skin and/or fat to achieve a natural, youthful result. I then use the laser to reduce the wrinkles and improve the texture of the skin. This subtle approach rejuvenates your eyes, without changing their shape. This earned us the Best Oculoplastic Surgeon vote.
Dr. Elba M. Pacheco, Adoro Medical Spa @ Center for Eye & Laser Surgery
What are some of the recent trends in plastic surgery?
There has been a lot of interest recently in non-surgical facial optimization – meaning using injectables to make subtle enhancements in jawline, cheekbones, chin, lips, and eyebrows to maximize beauty. This is the true goal of plastic surgery – to look like the best version of yourself. Combined with skin care, well done injectables are the best way to maintain a youthful look without appearing “done.”
Claire S. Duggal, MD, Sandel Duggal Center for Plastic Surgery
What is Pain Management?
Why do I hurt? That is the question I answer for my patients. Pain is defined as an emotional and physical response to injury. I have always looked for the source of one’s pain before treating it. Once the source is determined, treatment is easier. Unfortunately, when we think of pain treatment, many assume we are just prescribing pills. However, pills usually will not fix the problem. Most patients will receive therapy to help support their joints and spine, therapeutic injections to help alleviate inflammation and pain, or radiofrequency lesioning. Lastly some might require pharmacological management. So, when I think of pain management, I must find the source. Once that is found I will begin to improve your quality of life.
DR. BRIAN KAHAN, DO, The Kahan Center for Pain Management
What options besides surgery are there for my arthritis or musculoskeletal injuries?
For many musculoskeletal conditions, several options exist instead of steroid injections and anti-inflammatory medications to treat pain and restore function. Your body has the ability to repair itself! Sometimes, you just need a little help from a Sports Medicine physician to harness your healing abilities and precisely direct them to the injured area.
An evidence-based example of restorative treatments is platelet rich plasma (PRP). PRP is created by drawing your blood and concentrating it in a special centrifuge. We then inject your own platelets into your damaged tissue using precise ultrasound guidance. This procedure optimizes your body’s own ability to heal without surgery and is performed in conjunction with physical therapy.
James H. Lynch, MD, Sports Medicine, ROSM Annapolis
I’d love to get rid of the excess skin in my neck. Is there a way to do this with minimal downtime?
Facelift or necklift surgery is different than it was in the past. We now have techniques that are less invasive with downtimes of about a week. Droopy skin in the neck simply has to be lifted into its’ natural position and the excess removed with minimal incisions hidden around the ears. Virtually no scars are visible and the results are very natural. Unfortunately, despite the marketing you may see on the internet, there is no way to remove this extra skin without surgery. But thankfully, it’s now a very simple procedure to undergo.
DR. HENRY D. SANDEL IV, Sandel Duggal Center for Plastic Surgery
What does “rapid recovery” surgery mean?
We use this phrase to refer to our protocol of enhanced recovery after surgery – less narcotics, less or no drains used, and a faster return to work, social life, and exercise. With our combination of pre and post-operative medications patients have less discomfort and less downtime.
Claire S. Duggal, MD, Sandel Duggal Center for Plastic Surgery
How has Covid-19 changed your practice?
Aside from the numerous additional safety measures and protocols, I think the biggest change for me was the realization that I needed to simplify things. I made the decision to sell my Odenton office and concentrate on growing and devoting my full attention to About Smiles Dentistry in Annapolis. This has turned out to be a very positive change for me as I can spend more time with my patients, we have the capacity to add new patients and I have a much better work/life balance. I don’t love wearing all of the additional PPE but I do what is necessary to keep myself, my family and my patients SAFE!
DR. APRIL CALTON, About Smiles Dentistry
What do you wish more patients knew about stem cell therapy?
Stem Cell Therapy, particularly in musculoskeletal conditions and injuries, can repair or even replace damaged tissue, such as tendons, bone or cartilage. Stem cell therapy is a safe, non-invasive option for sports injuries, osteoarthritis and many other conditions.
Dr. Zvezdomir Zamfirov, All Star Pain Management
What are the further treatment options for chronic sinusitis if a patient does not get better with conventional medical therapy?
Well certainly it is our hope that all patients would improve with medical therapy alone, but unfortunately that is not the reality. If medical and allergy trials under our supervision have failed, surgery is often a necessary step. These are essentially drainage procedures meant to enlarge the natural openings of the sinuses into the nasal cavity. In this way, the mucus has a way to get out. Our practice provides the most up to date surgical methods including balloon sinuplasty, image guided navigation, placement of drug eluting implants which for most patients are provided for in our new state of the art surgical center.
Joydeep Som, Annapolis Ear, Nose, Throat, Allergy and Plastic Surgery
Are there other options, besides oral medications, for treating my erectile dysfunction?
Absolutely! Oral medications are a common first step for treating E.D., but there are several options for men who either don’t respond to pills or are interested in alternative treatments. Some of these include lifestyle modifications, penile injections, testosterone replacement therapy, pump devices, sound wave therapy, and even penile implant surgery. Not every treatment is right for every patient. At AAUrology, we like to individualize the treatment plan for our patients.
Dr. Christopher Graziano, AA Urology
What causes pain on the ball of the foot, that burns, causes shooting pain or creates a feeling of a bunched up sock at the base of the toes?
A Mortons neuroma. It is often described as a sharp, intense pain at the ball of the foot and may be worse with activity. In addition, it can be worse for women when wearing heels. It can be mistaken for a fracture or a soft tissue tear. Proper diagnosis is critical. Treatment can be as simple as a change in shoe gear or adding insoles. Other treatments are cortisone injections or surgical excision, if needed.
Lyle T. Modlin, D.P.M., F.A.C.F.A.S., Annapolis Foot & Ankle
Can the BBL Laser Help Correct My Brown Spots?
Many patients come to us with concerns about their brown spots and pigmentation making their skin look less radiant. At Skin Wellness MD, we offer our patients the best in laser technology to treat sun damage, age spots, and more. Our Sciton BroadBand Light (BBL) Laser is the most powerful intense pulsed light laser device on the market.
BBL will help you wipe away summer’s sun damage, correct those stubborn fine lines, treat rosacea, broken blood vessels, superficial wrinkles, skin dullness and texture, and acne scarring... with NO downtime! Most patients can return to work or daily activities right after getting treated. The BBL Laser is used to treat not only the face, but any area of the body including the neck, chest, arms, and hands!
Kelly Sutter, RN, CANS, Skin Wellness MD
Can counseling/therapy help me?
Counseling is a meaningful therapeutic process available for children, adolescents and adults.
This process helps individuals, families or groups of people achieve personal growth or receive treatment for a mental health disorder. As the counseling process takes place, people often gain knowledge of themselves and others, increased awareness, independence and effectiveness in the pursuit of achieving personal goals. Counseling can provide you with the tools necessary to improve your overall quality of life. Your personal well-being is essential to achieving a balanced, healthy lifestyle. Start your supportive journey today.
REBECCA MITCH McKEE, PhD, LCPC, CFC, BC-TMH, Anne Arundel Counseling, Inc., Bay Area Christian Counseling, LLC
I heard about something on TV called “teeth-in-a-day”, can you tell me more?
It is a single-visit procedure in which multiple diseased teeth are removed, implants placed, and you are fitted with a temporary version of your teeth – all made possible by our state-of-the-art in-office CAT scan technology. Once your implants have time to heal, you’ll visit our office for a final restoration and follow-up adjustment. The benefit over a typical multi-visit approach is that the patient spends no time without teeth – retaining facial shape, chewing function, and clear speech. Unlike traditional dentures, the result is natural looking, fully functional and non-removable. This type of “dental makeover” can be a life-changing experience for patients who have put off larger dental restorations for years. Call us today to schedule a consultation and learn about financing options.
DR. MEREDITH ESPOSITO, Chesapeake Dental Arts
What are porcelain veneers?
Veneers are thin wafers of porcelain, about the thickness of a fingernail, that are bonded on top of your natural teeth. With recent advancements in material, they can be extremely thin, requiring little or no preparation of the tooth surface in ideal situations. With proper planning and design, veneers can be as durable as any restoration placed in the mouth and can be a conservative and beautiful option to upgrade your smile.
SCOTT FINLAY, DDS, Annapolis Smiles
What are stem cells and platelet rich plasma (PRP)?
Stem cells and PRP are components found in your bodies blood that have pluripotent capabilities to stimulate the natural healing processes in your body. These cells are vital for tissue regeneration and repair. Whether you are obtaining stem cells from adipose tissue or bone marrow or platelet rich plasma (PRP) from your vein the basic concept is to accumulate a heavy concentration of growth factors and relocate them to an area such as your knee joint, back or shoulder to regenerate tissue. Platelet rich plasma (PRP) is FDA approved for utilization in humans. Call today to Heal thyself with PRP or visit our website at www.chesapeakeregenerativemedicine.com for price information.
DR. BRIAN KAHAN, DO, The Kahan Center for Pain Management
At what age should I start getting mammograms and what if I have a family history of breast cancer?
At CMI, we agree and align with the American College of Radiology recommendation of starting mammograms at the age of 40 with an annual screening thereafter. We are able to provide same day/next day results the vast majority of the time. If you have a family history of breast cancer, knowing you have a family history and wanting to be proactive is the first step. We are able to accommodate patients before the age of 40 and understand every patient is different. Additionally, other modalities such as MRI could play a role in assisting with advanced family history. We can discuss options and next steps during your appointment.
Dr. Alison Williams, Chesapeake Medical Imaging
Is Colon Cancer preventable?
Colon cancer can only be prevented by getting a regular colonoscopy. No other test both diagnoses and treats precancerous lesions called polyps in the colon.
Depending on risk factors colonoscopy should be done once every 10 years until age 80 and more often if there are any risk factors in the family. It should be done after 80 if there are risk factors depending on the health of the patient. Colonoscopy should begin at age 45 as we are seeing more and more younger patients with cancer. Sadly, we see frequent colon cancers in those that did not get the test done. Stool tests that come in a box are not able to remove polyps or prevent cancer and their predictability is not that great.
Michael Epstein, M.D., Digestive Disorders Associates
What happens after a tooth is extracted?
After the extraction of a permanent tooth, bone and gingival tissue (gums) start to fill the extraction site. However, the body also starts to “melt away” the bone in a vertical and horizontal dimension. If implant tooth replacement is desired, a site preservation bone graft is usually required to prepare the surgical site, especially if bone loss occurred prior to the extraction. This recreates ideal bony contours, and makes dental implant success more predictable. The bone graft is usually performed at the time of extraction with no additional discomfort.
ZIAD BATROUNI, DDS, Maryland Oral Surgery Associates
Who is a candidate for sedation dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is a great option for patients who have anxiety or fear about going to the dentist. Dental sedation can also be helpful for patients with issues such as a sensitive gag reflex, fear of needles or difficulty getting numb. Just about any procedure can be performed with sedation – even a dental
cleaning. There are several sedation options including inhalation sedation (laughing gas), oral medications and IV sedation. Sedation dentistry makes it possible to have multiple procedures done in one visit – meaning fewer visits to the dentist!
KIAN DJAWDAN, DMD, Djawdan Center for Implant & Restorative Dentistry
What are the treatment options for GYN Cancers?
The standard of care for most gynecologic cancers is surgery. On occasions, it may need to be followed by chemotherapy or radiation. Early stage cervical cancer is treated with an open hysterectomy. Uterine cancers are usually treated with a laparoscopic/robotic hysterectomy. Ovarian cancers are managed with an open cytoreductive surgery. For selected cases Heated Chemotherapy (HIPEC) could be considered. The most important thing is to seek care by specialized centers like Mercy Medical Center. Data has shown that specialized centers provide better outcomes. The Gynecologic Oncology Center at Mercy is one of the leading teams in the region for gynecologic care.
Teresa P. Diaz-Montes, M.D., MPH, FACOG, Medical Director, The Neil B. Rosenshein, M.D., Institute for Gynecologic Care at Annapolis
What is the best way to treat Melasma?
Melasma is often both frustrating and difficult to treat. I personally have suffered from it, so I understand the challenges it presents. Through years of experience, I have come to find that one of the best solutions to improving Melasma is the Reve Enlighten Depigmentation System that we offer at O’Donnell Vein and Laser. I am one of the only Licensed Estheticians in the state of MD experienced with this specific treatment. Skincare is my passion, and I will provide you with the absolute best treatment plan and homecare regimen to improve your Melasma but ultimately consistency and dedication to the plan laid out for you will be what makes the real difference.
LAURA Ruppel, L.E., O’Donnell Vein & Laser
What is Deep Teeth Whitening?
It is a long-lasting tooth whitening solution.
You can achieve the whitest, longest-lasting results with our deep whitening system.
This powerful whitening formula is surprisingly gentle and has a neutral pH that is unlikely to cause tooth sensitivity and discomfort during whitening. Deep whitening treatment will deliver outstanding results on the deepest, most resistant teeth stains that used to be considered untreatable, such as tetracycline staining, fluorosis, and other very dark stains. Brighter teeth will take years off your appearance.
Call Dr. Roland and schedule your free consult.
Yasaman S. Roland, DDS, LVIF, Center for Innovative Dentistry & Facial Aesthetics
Does my insurance cover this? What’s MY cost?
Every patient’s needs are different as well as their insurance. It’s important to be aware of your benefits. You pay for them and you want to use them before you lose them! Our amazing treatment plan manager reviews all cases closely, provides complimentary benefits checks and communicates the patient’s estimated financial responsibility. Each plan is customized to your needs. We’ll always inform before we perform. If you don’t have insurance, that’s OK! We offer a Dental Savings Plan and many other financial opportunities that will be discussed with you at your reserved appointment. Still not sure? Call our office to schedule a Free Consultation just to check us out!
Jonathan T. Soistman, DDS, Soistman Family Dentistry & Associates
When should children begin using toothpaste?
There are many recent changes for toothpaste guidelines; current recommendations are to start brushing teeth shortly after birth! Before teeth erupt, brush gums with water using a soft toothbrush or cloth. Once teeth erupt, use toothpaste, a soft toothbrush, and brush twice daily. New AAPD guidelines state fluoride toothpaste should be used once teeth erupt, using smear/grain of rice-sized amount, and wiping teeth to prevent swallowing. Some parents prefer fluoride-free toothpaste for infants. By age two, definitely use fluoride toothpaste with the same grain of rice-sized amount. Parent supervision is required for all children to encourage spitting and prevent swallowing.
MARGARET C. MCGRATH, DMD, MPH, Kent Island Pediatric Dentistry
Is it safe to see a Dermatologist now?
While this pandemic has caused patients to postpone medical care, it’s important to continue caring for your health. Skin cancers and other conditions need to be treated to prevent them from getting worse. We are committed to providing you with a safe place to go when you need care. If you are worried about visiting a doctor’s office during the pandemic, call us to discuss the measures we have in place ensuring everyone’s safety and well-being. Our practice is a proud participant of the Maryland Strong Back to Business Pledge, part of Governor Hogan’s Maryland Strong Roadmap to Recovery plan.
DONALD STRANAHAN JR., MD, Easton Dermatology
What causes stiffness and pain at the base of the great (big) toe?
This can be due to Hallus Rigidus, a progressive disorder that often creates pain with movement of the great (big) toe, especially with a push off movement. An Xray is often used to help diagnose the problem. Treatment includes stiff shoes, anti-inflammatory medication and possible injections. If conservative measures aren’t adequate, surgical options are available.
Lyle T. Modlin, D.P.M., F.A.C.F.A.S., Annapolis Foot & Ankle
Why should I see a dermatologist?
The skin is the largest organ of the body and performs many critical functions. To name a few, the skin protects you from infection, helps to keep you hydrated, protects your organs, and helps to regulate your body temperature. A yearly skin checks helps to detect skin cancer in its early stages which is life saving. The skin, hair, and nails can also provide clues of internal disorders such as diabetes, thyroid dysfunction, lupus, and nutritional deficiencies. It’s important to maintain the health of the skin so that it can continue to take care of you.
KATINA BYRD MILES, MD, FAAD, Skin Oasis Dermatology
