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Are Bunions Affecting Your Everyday Life?

Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.

Different Types of Open Foot Wounds

Open wounds on the feet are injuries that break the skin's surface, leaving underlying tissue exposed. Each type of open wound has distinct signs and characteristics. Abrasions, commonly referred to as scrapes, occur when skin on the foot experiences superficial damage from rubbing against a rough surface. Lacerations are cuts caused by sharp objects, which may vary in depth and severity depending on the force of the injury. Puncture wounds in the foot occur when a sharp object penetrates the skin, creating a small hole that can lead to deep tissue damage and infection if not properly treated. Avulsions, which often result from traumatic injuries in feet, involve the tearing away of skin and tissue from the body. Surgical wounds are intentional incisions made during surgical procedures. These open-foot wounds require careful monitoring and care to prevent complications during and after the procedure. Diabetic ulcers are open wounds often found on the feet of diabetics, resulting from poor circulation and nerve damage. Regardless of the type, appropriate wound care can decrease risk of infection in the foot and promote healing. If you're experiencing challenges with open wounds, it's suggested to consult with a podiatrist for effective treatment and management, reducing complications and supporting a successful recovery.

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 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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Minimally Invasive Surgery for Heel Spurs

Heel spurs are bony growths that develop on the underside of the heel bone, often causing heel pain. They form when calcium deposits build up over time, usually due to strain on foot muscles and ligaments, stretching of the plantar fascia, or repeated tearing of the membrane that covers the heel bone. People most at risk include those with flat feet or high arches, athletes who engage in a lot of running and jumping, and individuals who are overweight or wear poorly fitted shoes. Symptoms of heel spurs include sharp pain in the heel, especially while standing up in the morning or after sitting for a long time, and a feeling of a small, hard lump under the heel. Treatment generally involves rest, wearing orthotic inserts, gentle exercises, and taking anti-inflammatory medications. However, for persistent pain, a minimally invasive procedure called a percutaneous plantar fasciotomy, which involves releasing tension in the fascia can be an alternative to surgically removing the spur. If you think you have a heel spur, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan that is right for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact the podiatrists of Boston Common Podiatry. 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 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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Finding Running Shoes for Your Child

Finding the perfect pair of running shoes for your child involves more than just picking the trendiest style off the shelf. It's about ensuring that their feet are properly supported and protected, especially during their active play and sports activities. Look for features, such as arch support, a shock-absorbing sole, firm heel support, and easy-to-fasten closures like laces or Velcro. Prioritize fit by having your child's feet measured for both length and width, and make sure they try on several pairs to find the best match for their foot shape. Remember that shoe sizes can vary between brands, so focus on how the shoe feels rather than the number on the label. Pay attention to details like toe wiggle room, snug yet comfortable heel fit, and proper alignment of the ball of the foot. And don't forget, a good shoe should feel comfortable right from the start. There shouldn't be a need to break them in. If you're unsure about the fit or need help with a specific foot problem, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer tailored recommendations based on your child's specific needs.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact the podiatrists of Boston Common Podiatry. 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 our office located in Boston, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Are You Suffering From Ingrown Toenails?

If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!

Wearing High Heels to Work

Wearing high heels to work every day can have a significant effect on the feet and the rest of the body. High heels shift body weight forward, increasing pressure on the forefoot and leading to conditions like bunions, hammertoes, and metatarsalgia. The unnatural angle of the foot can cause calf muscle tightening and Achilles tendon shortening, resulting in discomfort and pain. Over time, high heels can alter posture, leading to lower back, hip, and knee pain due to misalignment of the spine and joints. Wearing high heels may seem glamorous, but it can also cause pain, blisters, and calluses. To mitigate these effects, choose heels with lower heights, opt for wedges or platforms for better weight distribution, and use cushioned insoles. It can also help to regularly stretch the calves and feet, and alternating with more supportive footwear. If you enjoy wearing heels to work and you have persistent foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for advice and care.

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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The Link Between Hyperuricemia and Children

Gout, once considered primarily an adult ailment, is increasingly being diagnosed in children, sparking concerns about its causes and implications. Hyperuricemia, characterized by elevated levels of uric acid in the blood, serves as a primary culprit behind the development of gout in young people. Excess uric acid can crystallize and accumulate in the joints, generally in the big toe, triggering inflammatory responses that manifest as painful gout attacks. In children, hyperuricemia can arise from various factors, including genetic predisposition and dietary habits rich in purine-containing foods like red meat, seafood, and sugary beverages. Additionally, obesity and certain medical conditions, such as metabolic syndrome or kidney disease, may contribute to the onset of gout. Moreover, sedentary behavior and inadequate hydration may increase the risk. Understanding the association between hyperuricemia and gout in children underscores the importance of early detection. If you notice your child has pain in the big toe, making it difficult to walk, gout may be a factor. It is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose and manage gout and offer treatment.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact the podiatrists from Boston Common Podiatry. 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 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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The Power of Running Is Enhanced by Wearing Proper Footwear

Running offers a multitude of benefits for both physical and mental well-being. It strengthens the cardiovascular system, improves lung function, and boosts metabolism, aiding in weight management and overall health. Beyond the physical advantages, running also promotes mental clarity, stress relief, and a sense of accomplishment. However, to reap these benefits safely and effectively, investing in good running shoes is vital. Quality footwear provides essential support, cushioning, and stability, reducing the risk of injuries such as sprains, strains, and stress fractures. Proper running shoes are designed to accommodate the unique biomechanics of each individual, offering optimal shock absorption and alignment for a smoother, more comfortable stride. By selecting the right shoes for their foot type and running style, runners can enhance performance, minimize discomfort, and prolong their running journey, ensuring they can continue to enjoy the myriad benefits that running has to offer for years to come. Injuries to the foot and ankle can happen from running, and it is essential the right running shoes are chosen. It is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can treat foot and ankle injuries, and guide you on what the best type of running shoes are right for you.

If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. 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

To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.

  • Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
  • Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
  • Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.

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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Do Your Child's Feet Hurt?

Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.

Foot Injuries From Pickleball

Pickleball, a rapidly growing sport appealing to all ages and skill levels, combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong. Played on a smaller court with a solid paddle and a perforated plastic ball, it is enjoyed for its simplicity and social aspect. However, like many physical activities, pickleball can pose risks to foot health. Injuries to the feet during pickleball commonly result from strain or overuse due to sudden movements, pivoting, and repetitive footwork. Such injuries may include sprains, strains, and stress fractures. To prevent foot injuries while playing pickleball, it is important to stay active, stretch before and after playing, and engage in other physical activities to maintain overall fitness and foot strength. Additionally, staying hydrated by drinking water helps to prevent muscle cramps and fatigue. If you have persistent foot pain or injuries from playing pickleball, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist. A foot doctor can offer guidance on injury prevention techniques and provide treatment to alleviate discomfort and promote foot health.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with the podiatrists from Boston Common Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

  • Achilles Tendonitis
  • Achilles Tendon Rupture
  • Ankle Sprains
  • Broken Foot
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Stress Fractures
  • Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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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