Items filtered by date: August 2022

Having foot and ankle pain is common among many people. The feet will feel better when they are frequently stretched. They will also have increased flexibility and range of motion. It is suggested that stretching the feet become part of a daily exercise regime, and there are simple methods that can be implemented to accomplish this. An effective stretch is known as the toe raise, point, and curl, and it is divided into three stages. It is started by sitting in a chair, and raising the heels while the toes are on the floor. The second phase consists of raising the heels, and positioning the toes so the tops of the big and second toe are on the floor. It ends by raising the heels, and curling the toes inward. Mobility may be increased when this is frequently practiced. Additionally, to stretch the big toe, bring the left foot to rest on the right thigh. Manually pull the big toe into an up position, and then down, and repeat several times. It is important to stretch the feet often. If you would like more information about effective foot stretches, please consult with a podiatrist.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with one of our podiatrists from Tri-Town Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

• Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
• Similar to the previous one, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
• Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
• Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising and ice and rest the foot. It is advised to then see a podiatrist for help.

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

Research has indicated that approximately 50 percent of people who are in their 60’s and 70’s will develop arthritis in their feet. Additionally, if a patient has sustained a foot injury, arthritis may develop more quickly. The most common forms of arthritis in the feet include rheumatoid, gout, osteoarthritis, and posttraumatic. Osteoarthritis typically targets people who are 60 years or older and produces severe pain in the joints of the toes. It may be worse in the morning after arising and can often become inflamed. Gout is caused by having excess uric acid in the bloodstream that forms crystals that lodge in the joints of the big toe. The pain from gout can be debilitating. Rheumatoid arthritis may be triggered by an autoimmune disorder that can cause foot deformities if not treated promptly. If an injury has occurred, it may trigger posttraumatic arthritis, and this may cause pain and discomfort. It is important to control the inflammation and pain with any type of arthritis, and it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can guide you toward correct treatment techniques.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Tri-Town Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

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

A stress fracture is considered to be a hairline fracture. It can happen in the foot, and is often the result of participating in running and jumping activities. It occurs when the bones become fatigued, and cannot support the shock that comes from activity. It generally develops gradually, and many people tend to ignore the pain and discomfort that often accompanies this type of injury. Common symptoms that many patients notice include swelling at the end of the day, and it is difficult to walk as the fracture gets worse. Relief may be found when a boot is worn, and this may provide adequate support as the healing process occurs. This typically takes approximately six weeks, and is further evaluated to see if additional treatment is needed. Mild stretches may accelerate the healing process, which may be beneficial in strengthening the overall foot. If you have foot pain and feel it may be a stress fracture, please confer with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can diagnose and treat this condition.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Tri-Town Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

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

Gout can negatively impact your overall health and well-being. It is therefore important to make yourself familiar with the symptoms of gout in case you ever develop this condition. Gout is a specific kind of arthritis that affects joints in the toes of the feet. It is characterized by the formation of crystals around a joint which can ultimately lead to inflammation and severe pain. One sign that you might have gout in the joints of your toes is that the affected area may become hot and significantly tender to the touch. Additionally, you might notice a change of color in the skin–namely, the skin surrounding the affected joint can become bright red and shiny. Lastly, you may notice that the affected area becomes significantly swollen and inflamed. These are all very characteristic signs of gout and if you find yourself exhibiting any of these signs, you should contact a podiatrist. Upon visiting the podiatrist, you can receive an accurate diagnosis and receive the care that you need for your gout.  

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Tri-Town 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 offices located in Arlington, Canton, and Chelsea, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Toenail fungus can be an extremely unattractive and unsightly condition that negatively affects the toenails. Typically, toenail fungus will make the nail brittle or stiff. It can also manipulate the color of the nail, making it brownish or yellowish. Some individuals struggling with toenail fungus may be curious as to whether or not they are able to wear toenail polish to cover up the fungal infection. If an individual has an important event coming up, for example, they might want to hide the unsightly infection with a pop of color from a nail polish. However, there are several things to keep in mind about toenail polish and toenail fungal infections. Using non-medicated toenail polish potentially may be problematic. This is because non-medicated polish, or cosmetic nail polish, might help the fungus thrive and eventually spread. Medicated polish, on the other hand, is specifically meant to inhibit the growth of the fungus. Sometimes, these medicated nail polishes will have antifungal ingredients. A potential downside to relying solely on medicated toenail polish, however, is that it might take a long time to cure the fungal infection. To learn more about treating your fungal infection and the uses of medicated nail polish, contact your podiatrist. 

For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Tri-Town Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

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