Ankle and foot arthropathies refer to joint diseases affecting the feet and ankles, often caused by arthritis, autoimmune conditions, or degenerative wear over time. Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and post-traumatic arthritis are common culprits, leading to inflammation, stiffness, and pain in the affected joints. These conditions can develop due to aging, past injuries, repetitive stress, or genetic predisposition. Symptoms include swelling, stiffness, reduced range of motion, and discomfort while walking or standing. Over time, untreated arthropathies can lead to joint deformities and difficulty with mobility. Managing symptoms involves lifestyle modifications, wearing supportive footwear, targeted exercises, and sometimes orthotics to relieve pressure on the joints. In more severe cases, medication or surgical intervention may be necessary. Early diagnosis can slow progression and improve quality of life. If joint pain in your feet or ankles persists, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Tri-Town Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Arlington, and Canton, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete's foot, or tinea pedis, is a fungal infection that commonly affects the skin on your feet, often starting with a red, itchy, and scaly rash between the toes. This condition thrives in warm, damp environments, making places like gym locker rooms, swimming pools, and public showers prime spots for picking it up. The fungus flourishes when it comes into contact with the skin in moist conditions, such as sweaty feet trapped in damp socks or shoes. Symptoms can range from mild itching and burning to peeling skin, and in severe cases, blisters or painful ulcers. For mild cases, antifungal creams, powders, or sprays can provide relief. However, the best defense is keeping your feet clean and dry, changing socks regularly and choosing breathable footwear can make a big difference. To prevent athlete's foot, always wear shower sandals in public areas, dry your feet thoroughly after washing, and avoid sharing towels or shoes. If symptoms persist or worsen, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for expert 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 one of our podiatrists from Tri-Town Podiatry.  Our doctors 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 offices located in Arlington, and Canton, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Hammertoe is a deformity that affects the toes, causing them to bend downward at the middle joint, resembling a hammer. It typically occurs in the second, third, or fourth toes and can be caused by a variety of factors. One of the primary causes is wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes that force the toes into unnatural positions. Other contributing factors include muscle imbalances, injury, and certain medical conditions like arthritis. There are two main types of hammertoe, flexible and rigid. In flexible hammertoe, the toe can still be moved, whereas in rigid hammertoe, the joint becomes fixed in a bent position. The symptoms of hammertoe include pain or discomfort when wearing shoes, visible bending of the toe, calluses or corns on the top of the toe, and difficulty walking. If you have developed a hammertoe, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief options, helping you to manage this condition.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Tri-Town Podiatry. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

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