Toe numbness and tingling is an abnormal sensation often described as pins and needles. It can be caused by temporary nerve pressure, or the feeling of the toes falling asleep, or by more serious conditions such as peripheral neuropathy and diabetic neuropathy. These sensations may result from poor circulation, nerve damage, or prolonged pressure that interrupts normal nerve function. A podiatrist can help by identifying the underlying cause through examination and testing, providing treatments to improve circulation, relieve nerve pressure, and manage chronic conditions. They may also recommend footwear changes or lifestyle adjustments. If you experience persistent toe numbness or tingling, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist to protect nerve health and maintain mobility.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Greater Boston Foot Care, PLLC. 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 contact our office located in Plymouth, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Diabetic foot wounds can develop when nerve damage causes people to miss signs of pressure, cuts, or irritation on their feet. Poor circulation makes it harder for these wounds to heal, which increases the risk of infection. Wounds often appear on the toes, soles, or heels, especially in spots where shoes rub or pressure builds up from calluses or foot deformities. Because many people with diabetes do not feel pain in their feet, these wounds may go unnoticed and become worse, over time. A podiatrist can examine the wound, check blood flow, test for nerve damage, and provide care to prevent further injury. They can also help reduce pressure on the wound by recommending special footwear or in some cases, surgery. Without proper care, diabetic foot wounds can lead to serious infections and tissue or limb loss. If you notice foot or lower leg wounds that are not healing properly, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for safe and effective wound care.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with one of our podiatrists from Greater Boston Foot Care, PLLC. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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

Sesamoiditis is an inflammation of the small bones located beneath the big toe joint. These bones help with balance and movement, but can become irritated from repetitive pressure, high-impact activities, or wearing shoes that lack proper cushioning. Dancers, runners, and athletes who frequently push off from the ball of the foot are more prone to developing this condition. Symptoms may include localized pain, swelling, and tenderness that worsens during activity. Resting the foot and wearing supportive footwear with cushioned insoles can help relieve discomfort. In some cases, activity modification and targeted stretches are recommended to prevent recurrence. Paying attention to early signs can help you avoid more serious injury and prolonged healing time. If foot pain interferes with daily movement, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for proper evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact one of our podiatrists of Greater Boston Foot Care, PLLC. Our doctors will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

• Sudden increase in activity
• Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
• Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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

Gout, a type of inflammatory arthritis, is caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, often affecting the big toe. It occurs when the body produces too much uric acid or fails to eliminate it properly, leading to sudden and severe joint pain. Symptoms include intense pain, redness, swelling, and warmth in the affected joint. During a gout attack, even light touch or movement can be excruciating. The skin over the joint may appear shiny or peeling. Treatment focuses on managing pain and reducing uric acid levels through medications, lifestyle changes, and dietary adjustments. A podiatrist can help diagnose gout with physical exams and lab tests, recommend effective treatments, and provide advice on preventing future flare-ups. Early intervention can reduce pain and help prevent joint damage. If you have gout, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this painful condition. 

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Greater Boston Foot Care, PLLC. 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 office located in Plymouth, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.