Items filtered by date: August 2023

Orthotics are foot devices aimed at correcting various foot problems. Many people consider them without a clear understanding of their potential benefits and limitations. Custom foot orthoses, orthopedic shoes, and similar corrective devices can be helpful in specific medical situations, with high arches being one such condition where they can help a lot. A significant challenge with orthotics is ensuring that they are properly prescribed and skillfully crafted. Podiatrists can provide expert assessment and custom orthotics for various needs involving biomechanical issues, such as plantar fasciitis, arthritis, diabetes-related foot problems, and metatarsalgia. However, their effectiveness for most other foot problems, even common ones like repetitive strain injuries is less clear as these are complex problems that go beyond biomechanics. If you have problems with your feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide a thorough examination of your feet and prescribe orthotics if they are right for you.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, 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.

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 offices located in Arlington, Canton, and Chelsea, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot blisters are fluid-filled sacs that develop under the skin due to excessive pressure or friction. Often painful and uncomfortable, foot blisters can appear as red, swollen areas that protrude from the skin's surface. When dealing with foot blisters, early intervention is crucial. Once a blister forms, clean the area with antiseptic lotion and apply antibiotic ointment. Cover the blister with a clean, nonadhesive bandage, and change it daily to prevent infection. Soothe pain and itching with a cold, wet washcloth over the blister. Preventing blisters requires proactive steps. Wear well-fitted footwear, as shoes that fit improperly can lead to friction. Test shoes before purchasing to ensure a snug fit. Keep your feet dry to prevent the buildup of moisture, and fully dry your feet before wearing socks. Apply tape or bandages on areas of the shoe prone to rubbing. While foot blisters aren't emergencies, their discomfort can limit mobility and open the door to infections. If initial treatments don't suffice or signs of infection arise, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for advanced treatment options.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, 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.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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.

A plantar fibroma is a benign and non-cancerous growth that forms on the thick band of tissue on the bottom of the foot known as the plantar fascia. These fibromas typically develop slowly and are often painless, but they can cause discomfort or pain when pressure is applied. The exact cause of plantar fibromas is not fully understood, but they are thought to be related to genetic factors or trauma to the foot. Treatment for plantar fibromas depends on their size and the level of discomfort they cause. Non-surgical options such as orthotics, or corticosteroid injections may help to alleviate symptoms. However, in more severe cases, surgical removal of the fibroma may be necessary to relieve pain and restore foot function. Early diagnosis and intervention are essential to effectively manage plantar fibromas and prevent complications. If you have a growth on the bottom of your foot, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can diagnose a plantar fibroma, and offer treatment options that are correct for you.

A plantar fibroma may disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, 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.

Plantar Fibroma

A plantar fibroma is a fibrous knot in the arch of the foot. It is embedded in the plantar fascia which is a band of tissue that extends from the heel to the toes along the bottom of the foot. There can be multiple plantar fibromas in the feet at the same time. There are no known causes for this condition. If you have a plantar fibroma, there will be a bump in the arch of your foot that cannot be missed. Any associated pain is most often due to a shoe rubbing against the nodule. Non-surgical options, such as steroid injections, physical therapy, and orthotics should be tried first. Surgery is a last resort and is the only thing that will remove a plantar fibroma entirely. Consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and to determine the treatment regimen that is right for you.

What Causes a Plantar Fibroma?

While there are no specific causes identified, a plantar fibroma can possibly come from genetic predisposition or the formation of scar tissue that forms from healing the tears in the plantar fascia.

What Are the Symptoms of a Plantar Fibroma?

There will be a noticeable lump in the arch of the foot that may or may not cause pain. If pain is felt, it is typically because a shoe is rubbing up against the lump or when walking or standing barefoot.

Treatment and Prevention

A plantar fibroma will not disappear without treatment, but it can get smaller and be a non-issue. If pain persists, a podiatrist examines the foot and when the arch of the foot is pressed, pain can be felt down to the toes. An MRI or biopsy might be performed to help diagnose or evaluate the plantar fibroma. The following non-surgical options are generally enough to reduce the size and pain of these nodules:

• Steroid injections
• Orthotics
• Physical therapy to help apply anti-inflammatory creams on the bump 

Surgery is considered if the mass increases in size and the patient continues to feel pain after non-surgical methods are tried.

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.

For older adults or those with medical issues, the risk of falling is a concern, as it can lead to severe injuries. Regular exercise can help prevent falls by strengthening foot and leg muscles, improving balance, and increasing endurance. One can perform balance exercises during everyday activities, such as standing on one foot while waiting in line or sitting down and standing up without using the hands. For stronger calves and ankle muscles, the toe stand exercise can be done where one holds onto a solid support, like a chair, for balance, with the back straight and both knees slightly bent. Then push up onto the tiptoes as high as possible and lower both heels to the floor. Walking, especially on uneven surfaces, and Tai Chi are beneficial for improving strength and balance. Swimming pool exercises can also help. Start slowly and breathe easily during exercise. If pain or dizziness occurs, stop immediately. If you are concerned about falling and seek additional fall prevention tips, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Tri-Town Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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.

The percentage of people who are 65 years of age or older that fall every year is staggering. Research has shown approximately 20 percent of these falls can result in a serious injury, including broken ankles and toes. Many injuries can be avoided when effective fall prevention methods are implemented. These can include improving lighting in the household, and removing worn rugs from the living area. Many people choose to install grab bars in the shower and toilet area, in addition to using a non-slip bath mat. It is beneficial to have routine physical and eye examinations performed, and this is helpful in monitoring existing eyeglasses and medications. The body can become stronger with regular stretches practiced, which can be successful in preventing falling. If you would like more information about effective fall prevention techniques, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can provide you with the knowledge you are seeking. 

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Tri-Town Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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.