Items filtered by date: June 2024

A hammertoe is a deformity that causes one of the toes, typically the second, third, or fourth, to bend downward at the middle joint, resembling a hammer. This condition often results from an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that hold the toe straight, and it can be exacerbated by wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes. Arthritis, injury, or a genetic predisposition can also contribute to its development. Hammertoes can be painful, especially while walking or wearing shoes. They may cause corns or calluses to form on the top of the joint or at the tip of the toe due to constant friction. If left untreated, hammertoes can lead to more severe complications, such as open sores or difficulty in walking. Relief options include wearing proper footwear with a roomy toe box, using orthotic inserts, and performing toe exercises to strengthen and stretch the muscles. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to correct the deformity. If you have a hammertoe that is causing you discomfort, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for the best treatment plan.

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, Canton, and Chelsea, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar fasciitis affects millions of people worldwide and is primarily found in active adults from 25 to 65 years old. Plantar fasciitis arises from the overstretching of the plantar fascia, a fibrous band of tissue on the sole of the foot that supports the arch. The major symptoms of inflammation and pain may develop gradually over time or suddenly after intense physical activity. The hallmark sign of plantar fasciitis is pain near the heel. This can range from a dull ache to a sharp, stabbing sensation, often most severe upon waking in the morning or after prolonged rest. Additional indicators include tenderness to touch, stiffness, and increased discomfort after extended periods of activity. Factors that contribute to its onset include repetitive stress from activities like running, dancing, or prolonged standing. Other possible causes are excess weight, improper footwear, and biomechanical issues, such as high or low foot arches. If you are experiencing persistent heel pain that may be linked to plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and diagnosis, followed by treatment options.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, 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.

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 offices located in Arlington, Canton, and Chelsea, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Lupus, an autoimmune disease, can significantly affect the bones, joints, and muscles in the feet, leading to various complications. This condition causes the immune system to attack healthy tissues, resulting in inflammation and damage. In the feet, lupus commonly leads to arthritis, causing joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. Tendonitis, an inflammation of the tendons, is also frequent, causing pain and difficulty in movement. Additionally, tendon laxity, or the loosening of tendons, can occur, causing instability and increasing the risk of sprains. One severe complication of lupus is avascular necrosis, where reduced blood flow to the bones leads to bone tissue death. This condition can cause severe pain and lead to bone collapse if untreated. Managing lupus symptoms requires early intervention and proper care. If you have this disease and are experiencing foot-related issues, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for personalized treatment and to address your specific problems.

When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly.  If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact one of our podiatrists from Tri-Town Podiatry. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.

Systemic Diseases of the Feet

Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable.  Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.

Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.

Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.

Diabetes of the Feet

Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.

Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet. 

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

Sever's disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is a common cause of heel pain in children and adolescents, particularly those who are active in sports. This condition occurs when the growth plate at the back of the heel becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress or tension. As children's bones grow faster than their muscles and tendons, excessive pulling on the heel's growth plate can lead to discomfort, swelling, and tenderness. Identifying Sever's disease typically involves a thorough examination by a podiatrist, including a review of symptoms and a physical assessment. While the condition often resolves on its own once growth plate closure occurs, there are several strategies for managing symptoms and finding relief. These may include rest, stretching exercises, and supportive footwear with cushioning insoles. If your active child has heel pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can diagnose if it is Sever's disease, and offer the appropriate treatment method.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from Tri-Town Podiatry. Our doctors 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 offices located in Arlington, Canton, and Chelsea, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.