Heel pad syndrome, also known as fat pad atrophy, occurs when the thick layer of fatty tissue beneath the heel thins out, reducing its ability to absorb shock. This can lead to deep, aching heel pain that worsens with prolonged standing or walking. Common causes of heel pad syndrome include age-related degeneration, obesity, repetitive impact activities, wearing improper footwear, and prior heel injuries. People who walk barefoot on hard surfaces may place additional stress on the heel, increasing the risk of pain. A podiatrist can evaluate  heel pad function and recommend appropriate treatment to relieve pressure on the heel. Supportive orthotics and well-cushioned footwear can help reduce discomfort during daily activities. In addition, specific exercises, such as calf stretches, heel raises, and ankle range-of-motion movements, are often used to improve foot control and reduce stress on the heel.  If you are suffering from heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and proper treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, 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.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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.

Ankle injuries are common among high school tennis players, often caused by quick side movements, sudden stops, or awkward landings. Studies looking into whether boys or girls are more likely to get hurt show something surprising. There is no clear difference based on gender. Both male and female athletes experience ankle sprains at similar rates, and the recovery process tends to be alike as well. This means prevention efforts should be applied equally across the board. Proper warm-ups, strength training, and wearing supportive footwear can help reduce risk. Bracing or taping may also offer added protection during practice or matches. If you are a student athlete dealing with ankle pain or repeated sprains, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, 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.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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.

A bump on the bottom of the foot can be caused by several common conditions, including plantar warts, calluses, or a plantar fibroma. Each has distinct causes and symptoms. Plantar warts are caused by the human papillomavirus or HPV, and often appear as rough, grainy growths with tiny black dots. They may be painful when walking. Plantar calluses are thickened areas of skin that develop from repeated pressure or friction, and are typically painless unless they become very thick. A plantar fibroma is a firm, fibrous lump in the arch of the foot caused by a benign tissue growth in the plantar fascia, which may cause discomfort when walking or standing. A podiatrist can examine the bump and determine the exact cause. Treatments vary and may include cryotherapy, trimming thickened skin, orthotics, targeted exercises, or minor surgery, for fibromas. If you have a painful bump on the bottom of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, 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.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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.

Foot blisters are small pockets of fluid that form when skin is irritated by friction, heat, or moisture. They often appear after long walks, wearing new shoes, or sweaty conditions. Common spots include the heels, toes, and soles. Although they may seem minor, blisters can become painful and even lead to infection if not treated properly. It is best not to pop them unless they are large or painful. Instead, keep the area clean, dry, and covered with a bandage or blister pad. Wearing moisture-wicking socks, well-fitting shoes, and using foot powder can help prevent future blisters. For people with diabetes or circulation issues, even small blisters should be taken seriously. If a blister becomes red, swollen, or does not heal, it is suggested you see a podiatrist for advanced treatment.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, 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.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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.