Obesity, a condition affecting millions globally, extends its impact beyond mere aesthetics, significantly influencing the health of the feet. The excess body weight borne by the feet places immense stress on the joints, tendons, and ligaments, potentially leading to a range of foot-related issues. One prevalent consequence is the development of flat feet or fallen arches, as the increased load alters the foot's biomechanics. Overpronation, where the foot rolls inward excessively, is also a common occurrence, contributing to conditions such as plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis. The risk of stress fractures in the feet also rises due to the heightened strain on bones. Obesity may exacerbate existing conditions such as arthritis, causing increased pain and limited mobility. Additionally, the increased pressure on the plantar fat pad may lead to discomfort and pain in the heel and ball of the foot. Addressing obesity not only benefits overall health but also plays a pivotal role in mitigating the potential foot-related complications associated with carrying excess weight. If you are overweight and have foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can monitor your foot health.

The more you weigh, the harder your feet must work to support your body. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from New England Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Obesity and Your Feet

People who are overweight are putting more pressure on their ankles, knees, and hips as well as their feet. This unfortunately can lead to variety of different issues.

Problems & Complications Stemming from Obesity

• When the body is overweight, it tries to compensate by changing the way that it moves. An obese person may lean forward and put extra weight on the wrong part of the foot. This puts unnecessary stress on the feet.
• Obese people are also more likely to develop type II diabetes which is a condition that causes a lot of foot problems. People with diabetes often don’t feel the cuts and sores that they may have on their feet, which can lead to more complicated and severe issues.
• Plantar fasciitis is another foot condition that can be caused by obesity. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot, which causes pain and stiffness while walking and climbing stairs.

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

Managing foot and ankle injuries in diabetic patients is complex. There is no one-size-fits-all approach for surgeries in these cases. Diabetic injuries can involve different types of bone breaks and dislocations, making treatment difficult. A major challenge is dealing with the limited soft tissue in the foot and ankle, which can easily become damaged. This is especially difficult in diabetic patients who might have other health issues like poor blood circulation or weak immune systems. Podiatrists treat surgeries in diabetic patients carefully to avoid harming the soft tissue and ensure proper healing. They often use special techniques, like minimal cuts or external supports, to repair the bones while protecting the skin and muscles. In severe cases, they may perform the surgery in stages. For diabetic patients, keeping bones stable and avoiding further injury is crucial, which sometimes involves additional support for nearby joints. If you are a diabetic patient and have sustained a foot or ankle injury, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist immediately. This medical professional can make a proper diagnosis and evaluation, with a determination of whether surgery is right for you.

Foot and ankle trauma is common among athletes and the elderly. If you have concerns that you may have experienced trauma to the foot and ankle, consult with one of our podiatrists from New England Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Foot and ankle trauma cover a range of injuries all over the foot; common injuries include:

• Broken bones
• Muscle strains
• Injuries to the tendons and ligaments
• Stress fractures

Symptoms

Symptoms of foot and ankle injuries vary depending on the injury, but more common ones include:

• Bruising
• Inflammation/ Swelling
• Pain

Diagnosis

To properly diagnose the exact type of injury, podiatrists will conduct a number of different tests. Some of these include sensation and visual tests, X-rays, and MRIs. Medical and family histories will also be taken into account.

Treatment

Once the injury has been diagnosed, the podiatrist can than offer the best treatment options for you. In less severe cases, rest and keeping pressure off the foot may be all that’s necessary. Orthotics, such as a specially made shoes, or immobilization devices, like splints or casts, may be deemed necessary. Finally, if the injury is severe enough, surgery may be necessary.

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

A podiatrist, known as a foot and ankle specialist, is a healthcare professional dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of conditions affecting the lower extremities. With an emphasis on maintaining optimal foot health, podiatrists address a diverse array of issues, including but not limited to, bunions, ingrown toenails, and biomechanical abnormalities. Becoming a podiatrist involves a rigorous educational journey. Aspiring professionals typically embark on a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine, or DPM program, which encompasses comprehensive studies in anatomy, physiology, and clinical rotations focusing on podiatric medicine and surgery. This extensive education equips podiatrists with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide specialized care for foot and ankle ailments. The dedication to this unique branch of healthcare ensures that podiatrists are well-versed in the complexities of lower limb conditions. If you have foot or ankle problems or are interested in pursuing podiatry as a career choice, it is suggested that you confer with this type of doctor who can provide care and information sought.

If you are dealing with pain in your feet and ankles, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to contact one of our podiatrists from New England Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine who diagnoses and treats conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Your podiatrist may specialize in a certain field such as sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics, and diabetic care. Podiatrists have the ability to become board certified through training, clinical experience, and then taking an exam.

What Do Podiatrists Do?

On a daily basis, a podiatrist may perform the following activities:

• Diagnose foot ailments such as ulcers, tumors, fractures, etc.
• Use innovative methods to treat conditions
• Use corrective orthotics, casts, and strappings to correct deformities
• Correct walking patterns and balance
• Provide individual consultations to patients

It is very important that you take care of your feet. It’s easy to take having healthy feet for granted, however foot problems tend to be among the most common health conditions. Podiatrists can help diagnose and treat a variety of feet related conditions, so it is crucial that you visit one if you need assistance.

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

Gout is not only about discomfort. If not addressed, especially when it is ongoing, it can evolve into major health challenges over the years. There are formations called tophi, which essentially are hardened clusters of urate crystals. These can emerge in various areas, including the feet. Even though they might not always be painful, neglecting them can harm your bones, cartilage, and joints. With prolonged gout, individuals often experience regular joint inflammation. This consistent swelling, combined with tophi, can result in permanent joint alterations and rigidity. In extreme situations, surgical intervention might be necessary to rectify or even replace damaged joints. Additionally, gout raises the likelihood of kidney stone formation. This happens because urate crystals can accumulate in the urinary system. Over time, if these stones block your kidneys, it can lead to scarring and damage. There's a belief that this kind of kidney damage, if not treated, can progress to chronic kidney ailments. Moreover, the persistent pain due to chronic gout can be mentally taxing. It can hinder daily activities like walking and working, leading to emotional strain. If you have gout, it is strongly suggested that you make a n appointment with a podiatrist to get treatment for this painful affliction before it takes more of a toll on your body and mind.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from New England Foot and Ankle. 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 one of our offices located in Chelmsford and Newburyport, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot pain is a widespread issue affecting millions of Americans daily. It can hinder your ability to work, socialize, and function effectively. The most commonly reported complaints of foot pain are bunions, flat feet, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, and plantar fasciitis. Bunions are characterized by a painful bump at the base of the big toe. Conservative approaches include wearing roomy shoes, using toe sleeves, and employing toe spacers. In severe cases, minimally invasive surgical options are available. Fallen arches, commonly known as flat feet, can cause chronic pain in the arch, ankle, and leg due to the loss of tendon elasticity. Hammertoes present as claw-like deformities in the toe joint, leading to discomfort, especially when the toe rubs against the shoe. Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows into the flesh surrounding it. This can cause extreme pain and can easily become infected, which requires prescribed antibiotic cream or possible nail removal. Plantar fasciitis is known for causing excessive heel pain from tears in the plantar fascia tissue that runs beneath the foot. Addressing foot pain is important for maintaining a high quality of life. Whether opting for conservative or surgical interventions, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific foot condition. 

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from New England Foot and Ankle. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Chelmsford and Newburyport, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.