Items filtered by date: January 2024

Cracked heels, a common foot woe, often result from a combination of environmental, lifestyle, and health factors. Dry skin, exacerbated by insufficient hydration, is a leading culprit, and exposure to harsh weather conditions, such as cold or dry air, can strip the skin of its natural moisture. Prolonged standing or walking on hard surfaces may contribute to pressure on the feet, leading to calluses and eventual cracking. Inadequate foot care, including infrequent moisturizing and neglecting proper exfoliation, can make the problem worse. Additionally, conditions such as obesity and diabetes may compromise skin health, increasing vulnerability to cracked heels. Footwear choices also play a role, as open-back shoes or sandals expose the heels to friction and dryness. Recognizing and addressing these underlying causes is essential for effective management. If you have developed cracked heels, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition, which may include prescribed medication.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, 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.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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.

Corns, a frequent foot woe, can cause severe pain and discomfort. Corns are defined as localized areas of thickened skin that develop in response to repeated pressure or friction, typically over bony areas of the foot. These often form on the toes or sides of the feet, presenting as small, hardened bumps with a central core. Ill-fitting footwear, such as tight shoes or high heels, stands out as a primary cause, subjecting the feet to constant rubbing and pressure. Other contributing factors include deformities like hammertoes or bunions, altering the foot's structure and leading to increased friction. Additionally, activities such as walking barefoot can exacerbate the formation of corns. Understanding the causes and characteristics of corns equips individuals to make informed choices, including proper footwear selection and preventive measures. If you have developed a corn on your foot that has become painful, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can provide effective relief options.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of Tri-Town Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

• Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
• Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
• Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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.

Flat feet, often considered a drawback in sports, can actually provide some advantages. Some well-known athletes have flat feet and excel in their respective fields, and roughly 25 percent of the population has flat feet. One key advantage of having flat feet is the ability to absorb shock effectively as a result of increased flexibility in the arch, which aids in controlling and mitigating the impact upon landing. However, individuals with flat feet should focus on strengthening their feet to perform well in sports and minimize potential associated risks. The benefits of having flat feet for speed and injury prevention become evident when we consider that flat arches tend to lower the risk of injuries as they offer more flexibility, enhancing shock absorption capabilities. Additionally, athletes with flat feet often display better control during the landing phase of sprints, optimizing the time their feet spend in contact with the ground. This is mainly because their feet typically make initial ground contact in a neutral or slightly pronated position, allowing for a more efficient transition off the ground. Ultimately, regardless of arch type, the strength and stability of the feet are vital for controlling landings. Weak arch support during landing can lead to extended foot contact or potential injuries. If you have flat feet and they are causing problems in the sports you like to participate in, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation in addition to recommendations on how to strengthen flat feet into a potential advantage.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Tri-Town Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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.

Poor foot circulation refers to a condition where blood flow to the feet is compromised, leading to various types of discomfort and health issues. These often arise from underlying conditions, like peripheral artery disease, diabetes, or vascular disorders, which hinder the efficient transport of oxygen and nutrients to the feet. Cold feet, numbness, and tingling sensations are common indicators of inadequate blood circulation. Implementing effective physical interventions is paramount in managing this condition. Regular exercise, such as walking or gentle stretches, promotes blood flow and strengthens the muscles that assist in circulation. Elevating the legs when sitting or lying down helps to reduce swelling and encourages blood flow. Proper hydration and maintaining a healthy weight also contribute significantly to overall circulatory health. If you have poor circulation and notice symptoms in your feet, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can guide you toward effective treatment methods.

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 one of our podiatrists of Tri-Town 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 offices located in Arlington, Canton, and Chelsea, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, abbreviated TTS, is a condition that often eludes immediate recognition, yet its impact on foot health can be significant. The tarsal tunnel, a narrow passage along the inner ankle, houses the posterior tibial nerve and various blood vessels. When this tunnel becomes compressed or irritated, it gives rise to tarsal tunnel syndrome. Diagnosing TTS involves keen attention to symptoms, which may include a burning or tingling sensation, numbness, or pain along the inner ankle and sole of the foot. As the condition progresses, individuals may experience weakness in the affected foot. Differentiating TTS from other foot issues requires a comprehensive examination, including a thorough medical history, physical assessment, and possibly imaging studies. If you have pain on the inside of your ankle, it is strongly suggested that you seek the advice of a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat tarsal tunnel syndrome.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, 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.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

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.