October 2024

Heel pain is a common complaint that can arise from several causes. The most frequent cause is plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the thick band of tissue connecting the heel to the toes. Other common causes include Achilles tendonitis, heel spurs, or overuse from activities like running. Less common causes include stress fractures, nerve entrapment, or tarsal tunnel syndrome. Symptoms typically include sharp or aching pain, often worse in the morning or after long periods of rest. Swelling, redness, or stiffness may accompany the pain. Diagnosis involves a physical examination and sometimes imaging tests like X-rays or MRI scans to rule out fractures or other conditions. Treatment depends on the cause but often includes rest and wearing supportive shoes. A podiatrist may recommend orthotics or targeted exercises, and in rare cases, surgery may be necessary for more severe conditions. If you are experiencing heel pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact the podiatrists of New England Family Foot Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Milton, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ankle and foot arthropathies refer to joint diseases that affect the ankle and foot. These conditions can cause pain, swelling, stiffness, and limited movement. Common types include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage between bones wears down, causing discomfort. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease where the body's immune system attacks the joints, and can be quite uncomfortable. Gout results from a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to sudden pain and swelling. Treatment typically involves rest, and depending on the severity of the condition, targeted stretching, and medications to reduce pain and inflammation. In some cases, surgery is required. Wearing supportive shoes or using orthotics can also help relieve pressure on the joints. If you are experiencing persistent foot or ankle pain, it may indicate arthritis, and it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact the podiatrists of New England Family Foot Care. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

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

Athlete's foot is a fungal infection that typically affects the skin between the toes, though it can spread to other areas of the foot. It often appears as red, itchy, and scaly patches, sometimes with blisters or cracks in the skin. The infection causes a burning or stinging sensation and can lead to peeling skin or thickened areas, particularly on the soles or edges of the foot. Athlete's foot spreads easily through direct contact with contaminated surfaces, such as locker room floors, showers, or towels, making it extremely contagious. If left untreated, the infection can worsen, leading to more widespread skin damage, secondary bacterial infections, or even spreading to the nails, causing onychomycosis. Treatment and prevention include keeping feet clean and dry and wearing breathable footwear. In persistent cases, prescription-strength antifungal medications may be needed to fully resolve the infection. If you have athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for care.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with the podiatrists from New England Family Foot Care. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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

Bone spurs, or osteophytes, are bony growths that can develop on the heel due to excessive stress, injury, or conditions like plantar fasciitis. These spurs typically form where tendons and ligaments attach to the bone, causing localized pain and discomfort. Symptoms of heel bone spurs include sharp or aching pain, especially with the first steps in the morning or after prolonged periods of rest. Swelling and inflammation surrounding the heel may also be present. Relief often involves a combination of approaches to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. This can include wearing supportive footwear, using custom orthotics, and resting the affected area. Stretching exercises may also be beneficial. In more severe cases, corticosteroid injections or surgery might be necessary. To address heel pain and explore effective treatments, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide tailored care for your condition.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact the podiatrists from New England Family Foot Care. Our doctors will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Milton, MA . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Gout is a form of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to sudden and intense pain. Common symptoms include severe joint pain, typically in the big toe, along with swelling, redness, and warmth in the affected area. The pain often starts at night or early morning and can become excruciating within hours.  A gout flare-up usually lasts between three to 10 days, with the most severe symptoms occurring in the first 24 to 48 hours. It may subside on its own but can return if left untreated. To handle a gout flare-up, rest the affected joint, and it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist for an appointment and examination. This type of doctor can prescribe medications such as colchicine or corticosteroids that can help reduce symptoms.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact the podiatrists from New England Family Foot Care. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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