Foot issues, such as plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, and claw toes, can significantly impact daily life. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue connecting the heel to the toes, causing sharp heel pain, especially in the morning. Heel spurs are bony protrusions that can develop on the heel bone, often linked to plantar fasciitis, leading to persistent pain and discomfort. Claw toes occur when the toe joints bend excessively, resulting in a claw-like appearance. Symptoms include pain, redness, and difficulty wearing shoes comfortably. Experiencing persistent symptoms warrant professional evaluation. A podiatrist might recommend custom orthotics, targeted exercises, or, in some cases, surgery to address the underlying issues. If you are experiencing foot pain or discomfort, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment options, tailored to your needs.

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.

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, most commonly affecting the big toe. It mostly affects men because they tend to have higher uric acid levels throughout adulthood, while women are partly protected by estrogen until menopause. After menopause, women can also develop gout as uric acid levels rise. Symptoms include sudden intense joint pain, redness, swelling, warmth, and tenderness. Risk factors include obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, certain medications, and diets high in red meat or alcohol. A podiatrist can diagnose gout, relieve pain, and recommend treatment to prevent future attacks. If you have pain in your big toe, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. 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 type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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.

Morton’s neuroma is a painful condition involving irritation and thickening of a nerve in the foot, most often between the third and fourth toes. It is commonly caused by repetitive pressure from tight shoes, high heels, foot structure, or activities that place stress on the forefoot like running or jumping. Symptoms include burning pain, tingling, numbness, or the sensation of standing on a pebble. The foot may look normal from the outside, but it can feel quite painful, especially when walking or wearing narrow shoes. A podiatrist can help by beginning with a detailed history and physical examination, often supported by imaging to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment may progress to footwear changes, custom orthotics, anti-inflammatory care, and injection therapy when appropriate. Early treatment can reduce nerve irritation and prevent worsening symptoms. If you have Morton’s neuroma, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Greater Boston Foot Care, PLLC. 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 Plymouth, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

In ballet, the bones of the foot work together to create strength, grace and precise control. Proper alignment allows dancers to move smoothly while maintaining balance and stability. In first position, the feet turn outward from the hips with the heels close together, creating a stable base that requires even weight distribution through the foot bones. In second position, the feet remain turned outward, but are spaced apart increasing the base of support and allowing greater balance, movement and freedom. These positions rely on coordinated function of the bones, joints, and muscles to manage space and control body weight. A podiatrist can help dancers by evaluating foot mechanics, addressing pain, and preventing injury through supportive care. If foot discomfort affects your dancing, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide effective relief techniques, enabling you to dance freely again. 

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Greater Boston Foot Care, PLLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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 and ankle needs.