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Podiatrists, also known as DPMs, are particular kinds of doctors that specialize in treating conditions of the feet. These medical professionals must undergo a rigorous course of study before being able to practice by themselves. Many patients are often curious as to what equipment podiatrists use in their practice to treat patients. The answer is that there are many different specific tools and pieces of equipment that podiatrists can use to accomplish different tasks. For example, to treat the toenails, podiatrists often have nail nippers, nail rasps, as well as cuticle and tissue nippers. To perform evaluations and examine the bones of the feet, many podiatrists also have X-ray machines in their practice. Also, some other pieces of equipment that are common in a podiatrist's practice include forceps and clamps, surgical curettes, and retractors. If you are someone that wants to learn more about podiatry equipment, contact a podiatrist today. 

If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to contact the podiatrists from Boston Common Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

Someone would seek the care of a podiatrist if they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems, etc.

Podiatric Treatment

A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:

• Physical therapy
• Drugs
• Orthotic inserts or soles
• Surgery on lower extremity fractures

A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans are available.

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.

A broken ankle is a common injury. There are various reasons why this can occur, including enduring a fall, having excessive pressure placed on the ankle, or from ligament damage. The tibia, fibula, and talus are the common areas of the ankle that can become fractured. If the ankle is suddenly twisted, or a heavy object falls on it, these may be additional reasons why ankle bones can break. Symptoms that are associated with this condition often include immediate pain, and there may be extensive swelling. Many patients are unable to walk with a broken ankle, and an X-ray can be taken to determine its severity. Recovery time can take a few weeks or even months, and patients may have a walking boot or cast on their foot during the healing process. This is helpful in stabilizing the foot, and it can provide ease in completing daily activities. If you have broken your ankle, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can properly diagnose and choose the correct treatment method for you.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact the podiatrists from Boston Common Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
•  Swelling around the area
•  Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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.

Morton’s neuroma is one particular kind of affliction of the foot that negatively impacts the health of one’s feet. Specifically, Morton’s neuroma develops when the tissue surrounding a nerve in the toes of the feet becomes thickened. As a result, pain may ensue. In fact, the primary symptom that is associated with this condition is actually pain and feelings of discomfort. Interestingly, the pain associated with this condition is not always consistent in duration. For example, sometimes the pain from Morton’s Neuroma may be intermittent. This specific kind of pain is sometimes described as comparable to standing on a marble. As a consequence of the pain, the toes might even begin to feel tingly or numb. If you are someone that has Morton’s neuroma and wants to address the pain, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today for treatment and assistance. 

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact the podiatrists of Boston Common Podiatry. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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.

Many elderly people who fall go to emergency departments as a result of serious injuries. These may include a broken foot, ankle, toe, or other types of foot condition. It is beneficial for older patients to have routine physical and eye examinations performed. This is helpful in monitoring existing medications and eyeglasses that may cause dizziness and imbalance, which can possibly lead to falling. Many elderly have family members or caregivers who can help to improve lighting in the living environment and remove worn rugs from the steps. Additionally, the elderly person may feel more secure when there are grab bars installed in the shower and toilet area. Wearing shoes that fit correctly is an effective fall prevention technique, and using a walker or can improve mobility. If you would like more information about how to protect elderly people from falling, a podiatrist can give you efficient procedures.

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 the podiatrists from Boston Common 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 office located in Boston, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

It is not surprising that with the extra stress running can put on the feet, runners may be more prone to foot injuries. Runners with flat feet, high arches, and those who overpronate are at higher risk for foot injuries than others. Afflictions that are common among runners include plantar fasciitis, metatarsalgia, and Morton’s neuroma. Plantar fasciitis is when the plantar fascia, a thick band of fibrous tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, from heel to toes, becomes inflamed or tears. It can cause a stabbing pain in the heel which may worsen when climbing stairs, after prolonged standing, and after getting out of bed in the morning. Metatarsalgia develops when excess pressure is put on the metatarsal bones, which are the long bones of the foot leading to the toes. With this condition, one might feel there are pebbles in the shoe or bruising on the balls of the feet. Pain is felt between the second and third toes, third and fourth toes, or near the big toe. A Morton’s neuroma can also feel like one is walking on a pebble, and there is discomfort near the ball of the foot. This is when a fibrous tissue grows around a nerve in the foot causing burning and tingling sensations, numbness, or pain in the foot. If you are a runner and have foot pain, see a podiatrist to determine its cause and start treatment that might be helpful to you.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with the podiatrists from Boston Common Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete 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 care needs.

The center toes are affected by a foot condition that is known as hammertoe. It is considered to be a deformity, and may happen from wearing shoes that are too tight in the toe area. It may also develop from genetic reasons, or possibly from a toe injury. Hammertoe is a noticeable condition. It causes the middle joint in the second or third toe to bend upward, which makes the toe bend down. Patients have found mild relief when the correct size shoes are worn, in addition to performing specific stretches that may help in flexibility. The toes may also become stronger when marbles or stones are picked up with the feet. Additionally, some people choose to wear protective pads over the top of the toes, which may help in preventing corns from developing. In severe cases, surgery may be recommended which may permanently straighten the toes, allowing the tendons to lie flat. If you have hammertoe, and would like relief options, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can provide you with the information you are seeking.

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

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

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.

Pregnant parents look forward to counting their baby's 10 perfect fingers and toes. Anything else is rare, but it does happen. Fairly common is seeing a newborn baby’s feet point in opposite directions. This can be due to the baby being squished in the small womb. Other times it can result from the child’s development or as part of a genetic condition. The two most commonly seen foot deformities in newborns are metatarsus adductus and calcaneovalgus. Both involve the baby’s foot positioning and how they were molded inside the womb. These conditions usually improve without treatment and do not cause long-term problems. However, there are more serious congenital disorders of the feet that do require treatment. If you know your child will be born with any kind of foot deformity or discover this at birth, see a podiatrist as soon as possible to have your baby’s feet examined and to obtain suggestions or treatment needed.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact the podiatrists of Boston Common Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.

What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?

A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.

What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?

Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:

• Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
• Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
• Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
• Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
• Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
• Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Treatment and Prevention

While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.

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