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August 2023

Benefits of Foot Orthotics

Foot orthotics are specialized shoe inserts designed to provide support, alleviate discomfort, and address various foot-related issues. These devices are available in different types, each catering to distinct needs. Some orthotics offer arch support, helping individuals with flat feet or high arches maintain proper alignment and reduce strain. Others focus on cushioning, which can provide relief for conditions such as plantar fasciitis or metatarsalgia. Additionally, functional orthotics aid in correcting irregular walking patterns and promoting better foot biomechanics. Whether you're an athlete aiming to enhance performance, an individual seeking relief from pain, or someone with a medical condition, foot orthotics can prove invaluable. If you would like more information about orthotics, It is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine whether they are right for you and which type would work best for your needs.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact the podiatrists from Boston Common Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

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

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It's Time for Beautiful Feet

You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.

Joint Replacement for Big Toe Arthritis

The first metatarsophalangeal, or MTP, joint replacement is also known as great toe joint replacement or great toe arthroplasty. This procedure is conducted to address arthritis in the main joint of the big toe. This joint generally experiences a lot of stress from activities like walking, running, and wearing high heels. Arthritis in this joint can cause pain and stiffness, especially with a condition called hallux rigidus. The traditional treatment for this problem is joint fusion, which eliminates pain but limits movement. Joint replacement offers an alternative, but it has been less successful than replacements in larger joints due to the high force placed on the toe. Different types of implants are available, including caps for the metatarsal head, full joint resurfacing, and newer rubber bumper implants. Recovery varies based on implant type, with a typical six-week rest period. If you have arthritis in your big toe, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can see if you qualify for joint replacement and educate you on the process.

In certain cases, in which the patient suffers from extreme pain or damage in a joint, joint replacement surgery may be deemed useful. If you have constant pain in a foot joint, consult with the podiatrists from Boston Common Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Joint Replacement Surgery?

Over time, joints wear down; this can be exacerbated by diseases and conditions. Joint replacement surgery, also known as arthroplasty, is when a damaged joint is surgically removed and replaced with a prosthesis. Prostheses, which can be made of ceramic, plastic, or metal, act as joints in lieu of an actual joint. One of the most prevalent causes for joint replacement is arthritis.

Arthritis in the Foot

Arthritis can occur in any joint in the body, including in the feet. Common types of arthritis in the foot are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. The big toe is usually where arthritis occurs in the foot; this is known as hallux rigidus.

Joint Replacement Surgery in the Foot

The most common form of joint replacement in the foot is a first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint placement. MTP joint replacement surgery is designed to treat hallux rigidus. Surgery is not intensive, and recovery occurs within one to two months after the procedure has been done. Overall, joint replacement surgery is a safe and effective way to treat pain in the joint of the foot.

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

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How High Heels Can Affect the Feet

High heels may add elegance and style to an outfit, but their impact on our feet is far from glamorous. The unnatural position of the foot in high heels puts excessive pressure on the toes, leading to bunions, corns, and calluses. Because the heel is elevated while high heels are worn, it can cause Achilles tendon tightness and calf muscle strain, leading to discomfort and reduced flexibility. High heels also shift the body weight forward, increasing the risk of ankle sprains and instability. Prolonged use of high heels can even alter the natural arch of the foot, leading to plantar fasciitis and other painful conditions. To reduce these risks, it is suggested that high-heel wear be limited and the shoes that are worn have low heels or supportive wedges. If you have foot pain from wearing high heels, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can help you find additional relief options.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact the podiatrists from Boston Common Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

  • Ankle Joints
  • Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
  • Balls of the Feet
  • Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
  • Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

  • Corns
  • Calluses
  • Hammertoe
  • Bunions
  • Morton’s Neuroma
  • Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

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

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Reasons That Obesity Affects the Feet

Obesity not only takes a toll on overall health, but also significantly affects the feet. The extra pounds exert excessive pressure on the feet, leading to various problems. Many people who are obese have foot pain, as a result of increased weight on the arches and tendons. Flat feet are a common issue with obesity, and the additional weight may alter the foot structure. Heel pain can signify the painful condition known as plantar fasciitis, which can happen from the added weight the heels must endure. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and weight management are crucial in mitigating these effects. Properly fitting footwear and orthotics can also offer relief. Prioritizing foot health alongside overall well-being is essential for those struggling with obesity. It is suggested that a podiatrist is consulted who can guide you toward managing foot conditions that may result from obesity.

Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact the podiatrists from Boston Common Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Obesity and Your Feet

Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.

Problems & Complications

Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.

Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.

Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot. 

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

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Heel Pain Can Be Treated!

Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek the professional help of your podiatrist and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.

Symptoms and Causes of Morton’s Neuroma

There is a nerve between the third and fourth toes that can become affected by the foot condition known as Morton’s neuroma. It occurs as a result of this nerve becoming irritated from wearing shoes that are too tight. Women who frequently wear high heels can experience Morton’s neuroma, and relief may come from wearing shoes that have ample room in the toe area. People who have flat feet may also be prone to developing Morton’s neuroma, as can patients who have bunions and hammertoes. The symptoms that are associated with Morton’s neuroma can include toe cramping and pain in the ball of the foot. Some people can have a tingling sensation between the third and fourth toes, which may gradually become worse. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can effectively treat Morton’s neuroma.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact the podiatrists of Boston Common Podiatry. 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 our office located in Boston, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Morton's Neuroma
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