Stepping on a rogue object can turn a pleasant walk into a painful memory. We have all experienced that sudden, sharp sting of a puncture wound on the foot. While it may seem like a small annoyance, ignoring it can lead to bigger problems lurking beneath the surface. When a sharp item penetrates the skin, it can push dirt, bacteria, or pieces of the object itself deep into the tissue. This creates a perfect environment for infection. Even a small piece of glass or a splinter can cause significant trouble if not properly removed and treated. Your feet are your foundation, and their health is vital to your overall wellbeing. If you have a puncture wound, especially if it is deep, bleeds significantly, or if you see signs of redness and swelling, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist as quickly as possible for appropriate treatment.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, 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 Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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.

A Lisfranc injury affects the middle part of the foot, where the long bones of the toes connect to the arch. This type of injury can happen during sports, a misstep on uneven ground, or from a heavy object falling on the foot. A Lisfranc injury may involve stretched ligaments or broken bones, depending on how serious the impact is. Common signs include swelling on the top of the foot, bruising on the bottom of the arch, and pain that makes it hard to walk or put weight on the foot. These injuries are often mistaken for a simple sprain, but if left untreated they can lead to arthritis, ongoing pain, or changes in foot shape. A podiatrist can check for a Lisfranc injury with an exam and imaging tests, and recommend the right treatment, which may include immobilization or surgery. If you have symptoms of a Lisfranc foot injury, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact the podiatrists from Boston Common Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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.

Finding the right shoes for marathon running is essential for comfort, performance, and injury prevention. Shoes should provide enough length to allow natural toe movement, proper width to avoid pressure, and a secure heel fit that prevents slipping. The overall feel should support your stride without causing rubbing or tightness. Wearing the wrong shoes can lead to blisters, calluses, plantar fasciitis, or even stress fractures, over time. A podiatrist can assess your foot structure, gait and any existing conditions, as well as recommend footwear that match your needs. If you are training for a marathon, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist to ensure you have the right support for your feet and reduce your risk of painful setbacks.

You should always make sure your running shoes fit properly in order to avoid injury. For more information, contact the podiatrists from Boston Common Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

Improper shoe sizing can cause a myriad of problems for your feet. Shoes that don’t fit you properly can lead to muscular imbalances in your body, which can result in foot, knee, and hip injuries.

Tips for Finding the Right Running Shoe

• Make sure you have a thumb’s width of wiggle room between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
• There should be little to no slipping at the heel
• Don’t assume your size in one shoe brand will be your size in another
• Do not lace up your shoes too tightly
• Walk around in the store with your new shoes before you buy them

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.

Achilles tendinopathy is a condition that affects the tendon connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone. It often begins with stiffness and pain in the back of the heel or lower leg, especially during walking or running. The discomfort may ease with activity at first, but can return stronger afterward. Over time, the tendon may thicken and lose flexibility, making daily movement more difficult. Common causes include overuse, sudden increases in activity, tight calf muscles, or wearing unsupportive shoes. Rest, stretching, and supportive footwear may reduce strain, while structured strengthening programs are often key to recovery. Ignoring the problem can increase the risk of a more serious tendon injury, including rupture. If you are experiencing persistent pain or stiffness in your Achilles tendon, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact the podiatrists of Boston Common Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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