Items filtered by date: September 2023

Tuesday, 26 September 2023 00:00

Advantages of In-Office Surgical Procedures

In-office surgery is an evolving trend in podiatry, offering numerous benefits for both patients and their doctors. This type of procedure can be less expensive and time-consuming, as well as more convenient, for both. In-office surgery eliminates the need for patients and podiatrists to travel to hospitals or ambulatory surgical centers, which can save a lot of time. Also, having certain procedures performed at your podiatrist’s office may be the perfect solution for patients seeking more affordable options for their foot health needs. In addition, medical advancements, such as mini C-arms and the use of local anesthesia, contribute to a safer surgical environment. Plus, in-office surgery procedures often can reduce patient anxiety because they are viewed as being easier and less costly. Many common foot conditions, such as bunions, nail problems, neuromas, and warts, can be effectively treated in the podiatrist’s office. It is thought that about 80 percent of podiatry surgical cases fall into this category. To find out more about in-office surgery, it is suggested that you consult your podiatrist to see what options are available.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Tri-Town 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 offices located in Arlington, Canton, and Chelsea, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Tuesday, 19 September 2023 00:00

Footwear Features for Restaurant Workers

Choosing the right shoes for restaurant workers, who often spend long hours on their feet, is important. The demands of the job, including standing, walking, and navigating through busy kitchens, require shoes that provide comfort, support, and durability. Slip resistance is a key consideration, as restaurant floors can get wet or greasy, especially in fast-paced kitchens. Additionally, opting for shoes with adequate arch support can help prevent foot fatigue and pain, which are common in the food service industry. Cushioned insoles can be helpful for absorbing shock and reducing the impact on the feet of restaurant workers. Breathable materials are a wise choice to keep the feet cool and dry, even during the hottest shifts. Durability is paramount, as restaurant workers need shoes that can withstand constant movement and potential spills. Look for footwear with durable materials and reinforced stitching. Easy-to-clean shoes are practical for maintaining hygiene standards in the restaurant. For any foot problems and further information on footwear for restaurant workers, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Tri-Town Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

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.

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Wednesday, 13 September 2023 00:00

We Can Treat Your Foot or Ankle Pain

Foot or ankle pain can negatively affect your day-to-day life and can occur due to several different conditions. Pain can also be an indicator of a more serious underlying condition, which is why you should seek professional help as soon as you notice any abnormalities in your feet.

Tuesday, 12 September 2023 00:00

Chronic Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a common and painful foot condition affecting millions of people annually, with approximately 20% of cases becoming chronic. Traditional treatments, such as stretching and medication, work in many but not all situations. The root cause of chronic plantar fasciitis is not inflammation, but tissue degeneration, which challenges the efficacy of anti inflammatory treatments. Surgery is an option but carries risks. Emerging minimally invasive therapies aim to stimulate tissue healing by enhancing local circulation. These include extracorporeal shockwave therapy, radiofrequency microtenotomy, platelet-rich plasma injections, and micromobile compression. Each of these treatments offers an alternative to traditional treatment or surgery for plantar fasciitis, and may help in chronic cases. Targeting the root cause of the ongoing nature of the condition is key. If you suffer from this disruptive affliction, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss whether a minimally invasive therapy may be an option worthy of your consideration.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, 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 Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

  • Excessive running
  • Having high arches in your feet
  • Other foot issues such as flat feet
  • Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
  • Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

  • Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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.

 

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Achilles tendonitis is a painful condition affecting the Achilles tendon which is found at the back of the ankle. Achilles tendinitis is characterized by inflammation and irritation of the Achilles tendon, leading to discomfort during movement. Common symptoms can include pain and stiffness near the heel, often worsening after physical activity. Overuse and repetitive stress are primary culprits, frequently affecting athletes and those who engage in intense physical activities. Having tight calf muscles, wearing improper footwear, and sudden increases in exercise intensity can also contribute to getting an Achilles tendon injury.  Managing Achilles tendinitis involves rest, compression, and elevation, along with performing gentle stretching and strengthening exercises. Severe cases may require medical intervention, and it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can provide you with an accurate diagnosis and tailor a treatment plan that is right for you.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. 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.

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 offices located in Arlington, Canton, and Chelsea, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Achilles Tendon Injuries

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