Research has shown the foot condition that is known as flat feet affects approximately one quarter of people worldwide. The medical term for this ailment is referred to as pes planus, and it is noticeable as the foot lies flat on the floor while standing. Many people are affected by this foot condition, and it may cause difficulty in walking. Additionally, there are people who can accomplish daily activities without having pain, and it does not affect their lives. The majority of babies are born with flat feet, and the arch generally develops by the teenage years. Adults who continue to have flat feet may consider having reconstruction surgery performed, and this can be effective in strengthening the arch. The ligaments, tendons and bone structure may be negatively affected in people who have flat feet, and surgery may be successful in repairing this part of the foot. If you have this foot condition, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can guide you toward options that can provide relief. 

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of New England Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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.

A noninvasive option for chronic heel pain is known as ESWT, or Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy. This treatment involves shock waves, which originate from outside of the body, and are directed onto the heel of the foot. These are sound waves, and are intended to accelerate the body’s own healing process. It has been associated with helping to heal the pain that comes from plantar fasciitis. During the relatively short procedure, the patient reclines and waves are sent to the heel of the foot. Typically, ESWT is suggested when the patient has suffered for long periods of time from chronic heel pain. This treatment has been FDA approved since 2000 and is highly effective for the treatment of pain. Consult a podiatrist to see if this procedure might be right for you.

Shockwave therapy is a treatment commonly used to treat various injuries and conditions, particularly plantar fasciitis in the feet. To learn more, consult with 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.

Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy is a new treatment option designed to treat bone conditions such as tennis elbow, shoulder pain, and others. Shockwave therapy uses high intensity sound waves that are directed to the affected tissues of the body with pinpoint accuracy. The effects are very beneficial, leading to a production of collagen fibers, eliminating inflammation.

Who Benefits from Shockwave?

Shockwave is recommended for patients suffering from heel pain and associated problems. Heel pain is a common condition which can be caused by obesity, overexertion, and spending a substantial amount of time on hard floors with your feet exposed and unsupported.

Fast and Easy

The therapy is actually a simple process that can leave patients feeling better the very next day. Shockwave therapy is not as dramatic as it sounds. It enables more blood flow to effected areas, addressing the source of the problem and allowing treatment to last for a long time.

Treatment & Recovery Time

Shockwave treatment will enable your feet to recover quickly. This is especially important since surgery is not required. It is cost effective and does not require the use of anesthesia. This treatment is a better option to surgery, since it is proven safe.

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.

Many people enjoy the ease of wearing flip-flops. They are a simple shoe, easy to wear, and designed in a variety of colors. Despite their popularity, there are foot conditions that can develop from wearing this type of shoe. Ligaments and tendons may slowly pull out of alignment, and a bunion can form. Additionally, if there is little or no arch support, this may trigger the onset of heel pain, which could be indicative of plantar fasciitis or heel spurs. Many flip-flops are constructed of a porous material, and this can be the perfect area for fungus to grow. This can lead to athlete’s foot and toenail fungus. If flip-flops are frequently worn, hammertoe can develop as a result of the toes grasping the shoe to stay on the foot. If you would like additional information about the consequences of wearing flip flops, please consult with a podiatrist.

Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from New England Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops.  Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off; they're perfect for any summer beach goer.  However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.

How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?

• Ankle problems
• Hip problems
• Lower back problems
• Pain in the balls of the feet
• Problems with foot arches
• Changes in the way you walk

Are There Injuries Associated with Flip-Flops?

Yes.  Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops regularly are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections.  Common injuries and ailments include:

• Sprained ankles
• Blisters
• Infections
• Cuts and Scrapes

I like Wearing Flip-Flops. Are There Safe Alternatives?

When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and that are made of high-quality materials that will support for your feet.  These flip-flops will cost more but will also last longer as a result.

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.

The majority of the population may experience foot pain at some point in their lives. It can range from a gentle achiness to severe pain that can be debilitating. Foot pain can be caused by wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, or medical conditions that can include diabetes. A fungal condition may trigger athlete’s foot, and it may cause the toes and the bottom of the foot to itch. This can be managed by using an antifungal powder or spray on the affected foot, in addition to wearing appropriate shoes while in public pools and surrounding areas. A hard lump on the side of the big toe may be indicative of a bunion. This may happen as a result of wearing shoes that do not have ample room for the toes to move freely in. There are numerous reasons why patients have foot pain. If you are experiencing any type of foot pain, it is strongly suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist as quickly as possible so the correct treatment can begin.

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.

There is a nerve called the plantar digital nerve which is located between the toes. Morton’s neuroma is a condition that occurs when that nerve is irritated or squeezed and can happen from wearing shoes that do not have enough room in the toe area. When this nerve is inflamed the pressure is felt in the ball of the foot. The nerve can become thickened, and this ailment gradually becomes painful. Some of the symptoms that are associated with Morton’s neuroma can include the sensation of stepping on a pebble, the foot can feel numb, and the pain can travel between the third and fourth toes. This is a common condition among ballet dancers because of the style of dance they enjoy. There may also be existing medical conditions that can trigger Morton’s neuroma like hammertoe, bunions, and flat feet. If you have any of these symptoms please confer with a podiatrist who can guide you toward correct treatment options, which may include surgery for permanent removal of the nerve.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of New England Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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.

The cuboid bone is located in the foot, and cuboid syndrome can occur when the surrounding joints and ligaments become inflamed. The pain is often felt on the outside of the foot where the pinky toe is, and may increase when weight is put on it. It can happen as a result of the cuboid bone moving outward as the heel bone moves inward, often from a sprain. Some people experience cuboid syndrome by putting repetitive strain on the foot while participating in running and jumping activities. There may be existing medical conditions that can lead to developing this condition. These include having flat feet or being obese. Additionally, having gout, arthritis and certain bone conditions may lead to getting cuboid syndrome. Effective preventive methods can include stretching the foot adequately before beginning an exercise routine, and it can be beneficial to wear shoes that have ample support. Treatment can begin with elevating the affected foot, and specific stretches and exercises can be done that can help to minimize discomfort. If you have this type of pain in your foot, please consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can properly diagnose and treat this ailment.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, 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.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

• Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
• Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
• Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

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.

Eleventh grade student Gerald Cook from Wilson Magnet High School was recently given WHEC’s Do the Right Thing award for gifting a pair of shoes to a fellow student who was wearing shoes a size too small. Cook went to his teacher after noticing a classmate was wearing shoes that were too tight. He then asked the classmate himself for his shoe size and brought a pair of shoes to school for the student to wear. Wearing the right shoe size is necessary for overall foot health, especially for growing adolescents. While the need to wear properly fitting shoes may seem like a basic one, this simple practice is often overlooked and is the first step one can make in promoting good foot health.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of one of our podiatrists from New England Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

• When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
• Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
• Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
• Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
• If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without 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.

Gout is a form of arthritis caused by the inability of the kidneys to eliminate uric acid. When uric acid builds up along with urate in the blood, it forms crystals which can exist in or around the joints. Although diet can play a role in gout development, it is not entirely safe to assume it is the sole reason an individual has the condition. However diet modifications can reduce your risk of a gout attack, and eliminating foods that are very high in purines will help as well. Gout that is left untreated may increase your risk of developing other conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and hypertension. If you suspect that you may have gout it is important that you seek the assistance of a podiatrist right away.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. 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 type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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.

When babies are born, their feet are generally soft. Proper foot development is essential in developing gross motor skills, such as walking, standing, running, and jumping. The bones typically strengthen under stress, and this is crucial for performing these motor skills. Each foot is made up of 26 bones, which amount to one quarter of the bones in the body. They will continue to develop and strengthen until approximately 18 years of age. Research has shown the feet will grow to half of their adult size in their first year of life, and the flat feet that most babies are born with will gradually develop into a full arch in their teenage years. The toes will develop strength when the toddler can walk barefoot while indoors as often as possible. When it is time to purchase the first pair of shoes for walking outside, it is beneficial that the shoe is made of flexible materials and has a sturdy sole. If you would like additional information about how your child’s feet will develop, please schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can answer any questions you may have.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact one of our podiatrists of New England Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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.