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Rock climbing can be an exhilarating activity for some, but it can also result in foot and ankle injuries. Falls are a significant cause of these injuries, with wall collisions and ground falls leading to various issues, including fractures and sprains. Climbing shoes, important for performance, can exacerbate foot problems. Wearing shoes that are smaller than street shoes can lead to acute foot pain in climbers and restriction of blood vessels that can cause numbness. Additionally, nail diseases may occur due to the moist environment inside the shoes. Ankle sprains are also common due to the foot's position in climbing shoes. To minimize these risks, it is necessary for climbers to choose the right shoe size, avoid overly aggressive shoes when unnecessary, and take breaks between climbs. It is also beneficial to clean feet post-climbing, and massage feet regularly. If you are a rock climber or thinking of participating in this sport, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for additional tips on how to care for your feet to ensure a healthy and enjoyable climbing experience.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact the podiatrists of Boston Common Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains 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 and ankle needs.

Foot and ankle infections, while less common in nondiabetic individuals, require prompt recognition and treatment. Patients with these types of infections often experience symptoms such as pain, swelling, reddening, and visible foot wounds. Medical conditions like renal insufficiency or inflammatory diseases can compromise immunity. Persistent reddening of the skin may indicate cellulitis. It is important to inspect the foot for calluses, blisters, and wounds as well as assess the wound size, depth, and any exposed tendons. A joint examination is necessary to evaluate motion and stability. Neuropathy can develop in nondiabetic individuals due to various factors. Imaging, lab tests, and culturing soft tissue or fluid can assist in diagnosis. Nail disorders require specific consideration. Cellulitis responds to antibiotics, while necrotizing fasciitis demands surgical intervention. Timely diagnosis and treatment are important in managing foot and ankle infections in nondiabetic individuals. If you have a foot wound that is not healing, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for evaluation and 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 feel free to contact our office located in Boston, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Morning heel pain can have several underlying causes. One of the most common culprits is plantar fasciitis, a condition in which the broad band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot becomes inflamed. This results in sharp or stabbing pain in the heel that tends to be most intense in the morning. Another source is Achilles tendonitis, which is the inflammation of the tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It can be caused by tight calf muscles or overuse. Morning heel pain has also been linked to rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition that causes Inflammation in the foot joints and results in stiffness and discomfort, especially after periods of rest. A stress fracture in the heel bone may also be responsible for morning discomfort. These hairline fractures can cause localized pain that becomes more noticeable when you first put weight on your feet in the morning. Lastly, aging can contribute to morning heel pain, as the muscles, tendons, and ligaments lose some of their flexibility and resilience. If you're experiencing morning heel pain, it's suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose the cause and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact the podiatrists of Boston Common Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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.

Peripheral artery disease, also known as PAD, is a common circulatory condition that primarily affects the arteries of the legs and feet. It occurs when fatty deposits build up in the arteries, causing them to narrow and reduce blood flow to the limbs. Symptoms of PAD include pain, cramping, and fatigue in the legs and feet, especially during physical activity. If severe, this condition can lead to pain at rest, non-healing wounds or ulcers, and tissue damage or gangrene. Treatment aims at relieving symptoms and preventing complications. While non-invasive imaging tests have been used to assess PAD, recent advancements in MRI techniques have had a significant impact on the diagnosis and understanding of this disease. If you are suffering from peripheral artery disease and have troublesome foot symptoms, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to see if any of the newer advancements in testing can better pinpoint effective treatment for you.

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact the podiatrists of Boston Common Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
• Pain
• Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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.

Multiwave Locked System (MLS) Laser Therapy is a laser treatment that uses a combination of wavelengths of light to reduce pain, swelling and inflammation in various parts of the body. MLS Laser Therapy can be used to treat many conditions, including arthritis and arthritic joint pain, Achilles tendon injuries, plantar fasciitis, fractures, gout, and peripheral neuropathy. MLS Laser Therapy treatment is safe, painless, and noninvasive. For some conditions, it may be used as an alternative to prescription medications and surgeries. If you are interested in exploring MLS Laser Therapy as a potential treatment option, please consult with your podiatrist.

MLS Laser Therapy is a successful alternative for treating any pain you may be experiencing related to certain podiatric conditions.  If you are interested in MLS Laser Therapy, consult with the podiatrists from Boston Common Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

MLS Laser Therapy

Multiwave Locked System (MLS) Laser Therapy is a patented, FDA-cleared technology that helps relieve pain and inflammation from a number of podiatric conditions, including:

• Heel Pain
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Sports Injuries
• Wounds
• Achilles Tendonitis
• Arthritis
• Neuropathy
• Neuromas

MLS Laser Therapy is an ideal alternative to surgery and prescription medication, as it has no negative side effects and encourages accelerated healing. Among its many clinical benefits, MLS Laser Therapy also:

• Reduces swelling due to bruising or inflammation
• Blocks pain
• Reduces formation of scar tissue
• Improves nerve function

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.

Recovering from bunion surgery may take several months but often leads to having pain-free feet. Bunions, bony bumps that develop at the base of the big toe, can cause considerable discomfort and limit your mobility. Surgery is often recommended when conservative treatments, such as orthotics and changes in footwear, are no longer able to provide relief. Immediately after the bunion surgery procedure, you can expect some discomfort and swelling. Your podiatrist may prescribe some type of pain medication to manage this and recommend keeping the foot elevated during the first few days post-surgery to reduce swelling. For the first few weeks, keeping weight off the operated foot is extremely important. A special surgical shoe or boot may be provided to protect your foot from injury, as well as minimize stress on the surgical site. Gradually, supportive footwear may be advised by your podiatrist, along with custom orthotics if needed. Patience is key during the recovery process from bunion surgery. It’s important to avoid high-impact activities, follow up with your podiatrist for monitoring, and adhere to their instructions. With dedication to your recovery plan, you'll increase the likelihood of enjoying pain-free, comfortable feet once again.

If you are suffering from bunions, 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 a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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.

Hammertoe, a relatively common foot condition, is often the source of discomfort and inconvenience for many individuals. This deformity occurs when the middle joint of one or more of your smaller toes becomes bent and stuck in an abnormal position. The affected toes often resemble the shape of a hammer, hence the name. Hammertoes can develop for a variety of reasons, including genetics, foot structure, or wearing ill-fitting shoes. High heels and shoes that squeeze the toes together can exacerbate the problem. Hammertoes can lead to pain, corns, calluses, and difficulty finding comfortable footwear. While the condition can be hereditary, early intervention through wearing proper footwear and certain medical treatment can help prevent or alleviate the discomfort associated with hammertoes, allowing individuals to maintain healthier and happier feet. If you are afflicted with hammertoe, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can guide you toward effective relief options.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact the podiatrists from Boston Common Podiatry. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

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.

Your feet deserve some dedicated attention. Incorporating foot exercises into your routine is not just about pampering, it is about promoting overall health and addressing potential issues. Toe curls and spreads engage muscles that often go unnoticed, enhancing stability and balance. Ankle circles and alphabets can help to maintain joint flexibility, which is essential for fluid movements. Arch lifts and rolls can prevent or alleviate conditions such as plantar fasciitis by strengthening the arch and improving blood flow. Additionally, these exercises can be therapeutic for those individuals recovering from foot injuries or surgeries. The feet support you tirelessly, and nurturing them through exercise is a step towards self care. Integrating these activities into your daily regimen can be rewarding, ensuring your foundation remains strong, supportive, and ready for life's every stride. If you would like more information about specific kinds of foot and toe exercises, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can provide you with the knowledge you are seeking.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns 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.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctors to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

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.