Items filtered by date: June 2024

Clubfoot is a congenital condition where the baby’s foot is turned inward due to issues with bones and muscles. Treating clubfoot requires a multi-step treatment approach. Initially, the Ponseti method of serial casting is used to correct the foot's position. After achieving correction, the next vital step involves using a boots-and-bar orthosis. This device consists of two open-toed boots connected by a metal bar. It keeps the feet turned outward to maintain the corrected position. A podiatrist will fit your child with this device, ensuring that the boots fit snugly and the foot remains secure inside. For the first three months, your child will need to wear the device for 23 hours a day, gradually reducing to nighttime use after periodic evaluation by the podiatrist. It is important to consistently use the orthosis until your child is four to five years old to prevent the foot from reverting to its clubfoot position. Adherence to wearing the orthosis is key to successful long-term results. To ensure the best treatment for your child's clubfoot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a treatment plan.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our doctors of Advanced 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 offices located in Needham, Norwood, and Hanover, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Gout, a form of arthritis, arises from a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream, causing sharp crystals to form in the joints. It primarily affects the big toe but can also occur in other joints, like the ankle or knee. The uric acid buildup may happen due to certain dietary factors, such as consuming foods like red meat, seafood, and alcohol. Genetics and underlying health conditions such as obesity, high blood pressure, and kidney problems can also increase the risk of developing gout. Gout can present in various forms, including acute attacks, causing sudden and intense pain in the joints. Chronic gout involves recurrent episodes of pain and swelling, which may lead to joint damage over time if not treated properly. Another form, called tophaceous gout, occurs when urate crystals accumulate under the skin, forming lumps or nodules known as tophi. Symptoms of gout typically include severe joint pain, swelling, redness, and warmth in the affected area. If you struggle with gout or any symptoms that may result in gout, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist to receive proper care and treatment.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our doctors from Advanced Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Needham, Norwood, and Hanover, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

During pregnancy, changes in foot size are normal due to various factors. Hormonal shifts can cause water retention, which can cause swelling in the feet and ankles, known as edema. This can cause discomfort. The swelling can temporarily increase foot size by a shoe size or more. The hormone relaxin, which loosens ligaments in preparation for childbirth, can also affect the structure of the feet, causing them to spread out and possibly increase in size. As a result, many pregnant women find that their shoes feel tighter or that they need to switch to larger sizes during pregnancy. Expectant mothers need to prioritize comfortable, supportive footwear to alleviate discomfort and reduce the risk of foot problems. If you are having problems in the feet and ankles during pregnancy, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment options.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with one of our doctors from Advanced Podiatry. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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

Foot infections from diabetes often stem from foot ulcers, open sores that develop due to poor circulation, and nerve damage linked to diabetes. If not properly managed, these ulcers can become infected and lead to serious health risks. Prevention is vital and involves maintaining stable blood sugar levels to enhance circulation and nerve function. Regular foot inspections are needed to catch ulcer formation early. Prevention strategies include daily foot cleaning and careful observation to identify changes before they worsen. Wearing appropriate footwear that reduces pressure points can also help prevent ulcers. Podiatrists, or foot doctors, also play an important role in diabetic foot care. These doctors can conduct regular check-ups to detect potential problems, recommend diabetic shoes, and teach proper foot care techniques. They will ensure that any foot concerns are addressed promptly. If you are at risk for diabetic foot ulcers or suspect a foot ulcer, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist today.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our doctors from Advanced Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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