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Experiencing sharp pain in the big toe can be a perplexing and discomforting ordeal with diverse underlying causes. One common culprit is gout, a form of arthritis characterized by the buildup of urate crystals in the joints, leading to sudden and intense pain. Ingrown toenails, where the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, can cause sharp pain and inflammation. Another potential reason is a condition known as turf toe, often seen in athletes, where excessive bending of the big toe leads to sprains of the ligaments. Neuromas, benign growths of nerve tissue, can also result in sharp pain, particularly when wearing tight footwear. Arthritis affecting the big toe joint, often seen in conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, may contribute to persistent sharp pain. If you are experiencing pain in your big toe, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer correct treatment options.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. 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.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as 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.

Experiencing sharp pain in the big toe can be a perplexing and discomforting ordeal with diverse underlying causes. One common culprit is gout, a form of arthritis characterized by the buildup of urate crystals in the joints, leading to sudden and intense pain. Ingrown toenails, where the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, can cause sharp pain and inflammation. Another potential reason is a condition known as turf toe, often seen in athletes, where excessive bending of the big toe leads to sprains of the ligaments. Neuromas, benign growths of nerve tissue, can also result in sharp pain, particularly when wearing tight footwear. Arthritis affecting the big toe joint, often seen in conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, may contribute to persistent sharp pain. If you are experiencing pain in your big toe, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer correct treatment options.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. 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.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as 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.

Skew foot, also known as serpentine foot, is a complex foot deformity often identified at birth or in childhood. It is characterized by a combination of abnormalities that affect the alignment and function of the foot. This condition involves a combination of forefoot abduction, where the front part of the foot turns outward, and hindfoot varus, where the heel turns inward. These alterations lead to a zigzag appearance of the foot, hence the name skew foot. Individuals with skew foot may experience difficulties in walking, balance, and may have discomfort or pain due to the abnormal pressure distribution on the foot. Treatment options vary depending on the severity and underlying cause of the condition. Conservative management includes wearing orthotic devices and special footwear to support and realign the foot. In more severe cases, surgical intervention may be required to correct the deformity and improve function. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential in preventing progression and maintaining mobility and quality of life. If your child has what appears to be skew foot, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist as quickly as possible for treatment.

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.

Skew foot, also known as serpentine foot, is a complex foot deformity often identified at birth or in childhood. It is characterized by a combination of abnormalities that affect the alignment and function of the foot. This condition involves a combination of forefoot abduction, where the front part of the foot turns outward, and hindfoot varus, where the heel turns inward. These alterations lead to a zigzag appearance of the foot, hence the name skew foot. Individuals with skew foot may experience difficulties in walking, balance, and may have discomfort or pain due to the abnormal pressure distribution on the foot. Treatment options vary depending on the severity and underlying cause of the condition. Conservative management includes wearing orthotic devices and special footwear to support and realign the foot. In more severe cases, surgical intervention may be required to correct the deformity and improve function. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential in preventing progression and maintaining mobility and quality of life. If your child has what appears to be skew foot, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist as quickly as possible for treatment.

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.

Ingrown toenails, a discomfort that can disrupt the rhythm of your daily life, often stem from a combination of factors. The primary cause lies in the toenail's edge growing into the surrounding skin, triggering inflammation and pain. Improper toenail trimming, wearing tight shoes, or sustaining injuries to the toe can contribute to this unwelcome development. Recognizing the signs of an ingrown toenail is vital for timely intervention. Persistent pain, redness, and swelling around the toenail, coupled with potential drainage of pus, signify the onset. If left untreated, ingrown toenails can escalate into infections, posing greater challenges. Understanding the causes and recognizing early signs empowers individuals to address ingrown toenails promptly, restoring comfort and preserving the health of their feet. Ingrown toenails can be a serious foot condition. If you have symptoms of this ailment, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can offer you correct treatment options.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact the podiatrists of Boston Common Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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.

Ingrown toenails, a discomfort that can disrupt the rhythm of your daily life, often stem from a combination of factors. The primary cause lies in the toenail's edge growing into the surrounding skin, triggering inflammation and pain. Improper toenail trimming, wearing tight shoes, or sustaining injuries to the toe can contribute to this unwelcome development. Recognizing the signs of an ingrown toenail is vital for timely intervention. Persistent pain, redness, and swelling around the toenail, coupled with potential drainage of pus, signify the onset. If left untreated, ingrown toenails can escalate into infections, posing greater challenges. Understanding the causes and recognizing early signs empowers individuals to address ingrown toenails promptly, restoring comfort and preserving the health of their feet. Ingrown toenails can be a serious foot condition. If you have symptoms of this ailment, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can offer you correct treatment options.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact the podiatrists of Boston Common Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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.

Running is a fantastic way to stay fit and relieve stress, but it can also take a toll on your feet and shoes. This is where the practice of running shoe rotation comes into play. It involves switching between different pairs of running shoes to distribute the impact and wear more evenly. The importance of running shoe rotation lies in several key benefits. First, it prolongs the lifespan of your shoes. Continuous use of the same pair can lead to faster wear and tear, reducing their support and cushioning. Rotating between multiple pairs allows each shoe to recover between runs. Additionally, it helps prevent overuse injuries. Each pair of running shoes has a unique cushioning and support system. By alternating between them, you may reduce the risk of overloading specific muscle groups and joints. This can help to lower the risk of injuries such as shin splints, stress fractures, and Achilles tendonitis. Different shoes can provide variations in comfort and performance, giving your feet a break from repetitive motion and potentially improving your performance. Whether you are a seasoned runner or just starting out, incorporating a rotation schedule into your running routine can help keep your feet healthy and your runs enjoyable. For more information about running shoes and the importance of rotating them or if you have endured a foot or ankle injury from running, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist.

You should always make sure your running shoes fit properly in order to avoid injury. For more information, contact the podiatrists from Boston Common Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

Improper shoe sizing can cause a myriad of problems for your feet. Shoes that don’t fit you properly can lead to muscular imbalances in your body, which can result in foot, knee, and hip injuries.

Tips for Finding the Right Running Shoe

• Make sure you have a thumb’s width of wiggle room between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
• There should be little to no slipping at the heel
• Don’t assume your size in one shoe brand will be your size in another
• Do not lace up your shoes too tightly
• Walk around in the store with your new shoes before you buy them

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