Author: New England Podiatry Associates

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blog Nutrition

The Right Foods for Your Bones

Dairy based food and drink products

When was the last time you took a closer look at your plate? Do you have protein, vegetables, sources of calcium, and more? The New England Podiatry Associates know a healthy body means healthy, strong bones. The result: A lower risk of weak ankles and fractures. For older patients, strong bones also reduce the risk of falls. Here are three ways to boost your calcium and vitamin D levels:

Fun in the sun

Daylight Saving Time has begun, which means more fun in the sun (with sunblock and hydration, of course). Healthy doses of the sun are a great source of vitamin D. We encourage patients to protect their skin and reapply sunblock as needed.

Delicious dairy

Dairy products are among the most common options for additional calcium. Milk, yogurt, cheese, and ice cream are delicious options that are great for all ages. Involve the whole family while bringing in more calcium to your diet. Fun treats are another way to sweeten the invitation.

Valuable vegan options

Dairy isn’t the only way to get calcium. For our vegan patients, we recommend green, leafy vegetables. Broccoli and cabbage are examples. Beans, peas, and lentils are also nutrient-rich foods with a variety of benefits. Don’t forget about soybeans, seaweed, and more. Consult your doctor or nutritionist about the best ways to improve your diet.

This National Nutrition Month, keep your eye on your calcium and vitamin D intake. Have fun in the sun and pack your plate with the right foods. At New England Podiatry Associates, Dr. Michael Hass, Dr. Alan Green, Dr. Stephen Tubridy, Dr. Ronald Etskovitz, Dr. Raymond Murano III, and Dr. Catherine Jacobs treat various conditions such as sports injuries, foot and ankle pain, pediatric foot care, ingrown toenails, and flat feet. Equipped with a board-certified podiatrist team, we offer two convenient locations to provide excellent care for patients in Norfolk, Suffolk, and Middlesex Counties. Contact our Chestnut Hill office at 617-232-1752 and our Newton-Wellesley office at 617-630-8280. We are still offering a telemedicine option for your safety and convenience.

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blog Foot Health Heart Health

Foot and Ankle Conditions’ Connection to Heart Health

February is American Heart Month and a reminder to share how foot health can also point to matters of the heart. From swelling to changes in your skin color, the doctors at New England Podiatry Associates want to know about new symptoms. They can be a sign of something as simple as an injury or warning signs of heart disease. 

Skin color changes on feet

If your skin is changing colors, ring the alarm. Blue or purple may be a sign that you have a blockage in your blood vessels. It means that blood is not properly flowing throughout your body. While warm, if your skin is purple or blue, schedule an appointment with your podiatrist.

Swelling of feet and ankles

Fluid buildup in your feet and ankles may be a sign that your heart isn’t working at its best. Fluid buildup can start in your feet, but it can also extend to your legs. If you don’t have recent memory of an injury or a reason for the swelling, schedule an appointment with your doctor. It may save your life.

Slow-healing wounds

Circulation describes how blood flows throughout your body, including to your limbs. Blood is nutrient-rich and contains oxygen. It plays an important role in healing the body, too. If you notice slow-healing wounds or wounds that are no longer healing, schedule an appointment with your podiatrist. Poor circulation is an early sign that you may need to take a closer look at your heart health.

Did you know that your skin is the largest organ of the body? Pay attention to what it may be telling you about your heart health. At New England Podiatry Associates, Dr. Michael Hass, Dr. Alan Green, Dr. Stephen Tubridy, Dr. Ronald Etskovitz, Dr. Raymond Murano III, and Dr. Catherine Jacobs treat a variety of conditions such as sports injuries, foot and ankle pain, pediatric foot care, ingrown toenails, and flat feet. Equipped with a board-certified podiatrists, team we offer two convenient locations to provide excellent care for patients in Norfolk, Suffolk, and Middlesex Counties. Contact our Chestnut Hill office at 617-232-1752 and our Newton-Wellesley office at 617-630-8280. We are still offering a telemedicine option for your safety and convenience.

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blog Falls Prevention Awareness

Protecting Feet and Ankles This Winter

Winter is here, and accidents may happen when the snow falls or when ice forms on sidewalks. The doctors at New England Podiatry Associates see common injuries that are frequent during the winter, and we’re here to help you stay safe. Here are three suggestions for avoiding ankle sprains, ankle fractures, bumps, and bruises.

Look down first

One of the easiest ways patients can prevent winter injuries is to watch where they’re walking. It sounds simple, but it can be the difference between a slip and a save. Following snowfall or low overnight temperatures, surfaces may be slippery. While you can see snow-covered patches of ice, there are also icy spots that aren’t as simple to detect. Before walking around, consider anti-icing techniques to lower your risk of a fall.

Choose the right footwear

Wear the right shoes for the weather for two reasons: protect your feet from cold, wet conditions and allow proper traction to help you navigate slippery surfaces. We recommend supportive shoes without worn soles. Choose the right style and size, and avoid wearing high heels or fashion boots with little to no traction.

Be a great neighbor

Do you have a senior neighbor? Help them clean off their sidewalk or driveway. Americans over the age of 65 are at a higher risk of falling. These falls can be life-threatening or severely limit future mobility. When the temperatures dip or snowflakes call, reach out to your neighbors, especially senior citizens. 

Winter is still here, so we encourage our patients to stay watchful with each step. At New England Podiatry Associates, Dr. Michael Hass, Dr. Alan Green, Dr. Stephen Tubridy, Dr. Ronald Etskovitz, Dr. Raymond Murano III, and Dr. Catherine Jacobs treat a variety of conditions such as sports injuries, foot and ankle pain, pediatric foot care, ingrown toenails, and flat feet. Equipped with a board-certified podiatrist team, we offer two convenient locations to provide excellent care for patients in Norfolk, Suffolk, and Middlesex Counties. Contact our Chestnut Hill office at 617-232-1752 and our Newton-Wellesley office at 617-630-8280. We are still offering a telemedicine option for your safety and convenience.

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blog

Foot Care Gifts for the Holidays

Our family and friends could all benefit from thoughtful foot gifts this holiday season. If you’re unsure of where to begin, the doctors at  New England Podiatry Associates are here to help. Whether you’re looking for a gift to help with daily foot checks or extra comfy socks, start here with our recommendations. Happy Holidays from our family to yours!

Foot moisturizer

The winter season is beautiful, but it can also bring dry skin. Help your loved ones prevent dry skin and cracked heels by gifting them with a podiatrist-recommended moisturizer. For best results, be sure to stress the importance of not putting lotion between their toes. Unfortunately, this area is the optimal environment for fungus to grow.

Diabetic socks

There’s a chance that someone in your life is managing their diabetes. One way to support them during the holiday season is to provide them with a special pair of socks. Diabetic socks offer more comfort and cushion. They also do not have an elastic cuff, which can be uncomfortable and create circulation issues.

Nail clipper set

A new, clean set of nail clippers and a file can be a great way to start the new year. Daily foot checks should always include clean tools. If you notice that a loved one needs to upgrade their foot care kit, consider shopping on their behalf. Always remind them that they should not share hygiene items, including nail clippers, nail files, tweezers, etc.

Foot care should be every day, and we think each of these gifts can contribute to healthy feet for your friends and family. Here’s another gift: recommending that a loved one visits a podiatrist. At New England Podiatry Associates, Dr. Michael Hass, Dr. Alan Green, Dr. Stephen Tubridy, Dr. Ronald Etskovitz, Dr. Raymond Murano III, and Dr. Catherine Jacobs treat a variety of conditions such as sports injuries, foot and ankle pain, pediatric foot care, ingrown toenails, and flat feet. Equipped with a board-certified team of podiatrists, we offer two convenient locations to provide excellent care for patients in Norfolk, Suffolk, and Middlesex Counties. Contact our Chestnut Hill office at 617-232-1752 and our Newton-Wellesley office at 617-630-8280. We are still offering a telemedicine option for your safety and convenience.

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blog Diabetic Foot Care Foot Health

Raise Awareness During American Diabetes Month

Diabetes Awareness Month

We can’t close out the month without raising awareness during American Diabetes Month. Diabetes is a condition that impacts many of our patients and can create complications for feet and ankles. The doctors at  New England Podiatry Associates also know the holidays can present challenges. We’re here to help you enjoy a delicious meal while staying on top of your health goals.

Enjoy a balanced meal

A diabetes diagnosis isn’t the end of enjoying delicious meals. It does, however, require a few adjustments to manage your blood sugar. The American Diabetes Association recommends choosing a meal plan with less added sugars and less processed foods. You can keep fruits, vegetables, and lean meats or plant-based sources of protein on the menu.

Eat with confidence

Before you sit down for your meal, check your blood sugar. We recommend blood sugar checks throughout the day to leave time for any adjustments. From setting timers to having a family member remind you of scheduled checks, start the day off well, and eat your holiday meal with confidence.

Everything in moderation

If there’s a sweet treat you can safely eat, choose a small piece. Remember you can still enjoy leftovers the next day. Go to bed feeling satisfied with your meal and in the safe zone with your blood sugar level.

End the speculation

If you’ve been experiencing foot or ankle pain, now is the time to make an appointment. We want you to continue the holiday season without wondering about the cause of your pain. If you discover a new wound or notice a cut is slow to heal, make an appointment with us as soon as possible. We want to help you prevent infection.

We wish you and your family a safe and healthy time of celebration. We’re here to support your foot, and ankle needs this holiday season. Call us at 617-232-1752 to make an appointment. Our Chestnut Hill and Newton-Wellesley offices are open. We are still offering a telemedicine option for your safety and convenience.

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blog Foot Health

Are Bunions Holding You Back?

illustration of a foot with a bunion, and a foot without a bunion

Many people have bunions. For some people, this toe deformity is visible but painless. For others, a bump along the side of the big toe joint can bring tremendous discomfort. When pain from this condition interrupts your daily routine, it’s time to talk with the doctors at New England Podiatry Associates.  We’re here to help you walk through your options for pain relief.

What is a bunion?

A bunion is a progressive toe deformity, which means it will continue to worsen over time without surgery. Again, some people may not experience pain. Others can have a different story. We can help you figure out the best way to live with this toe deformity; surgery is also an option.

How did I get this condition?

Family history plays a significant role in developing this toe deformity. Wearing shoes that are too tight can make things worse. You are also at an increased risk of developing a bunion if you have flat feet or low arches.  

What causes bunion pain?

If you see a bump on the base of your big toe joint, you may have a bunion caused when the bone at the joint moves and bends toward other toes. Since the big toe carries much of your body’s weight, bunions can become very painful. Changing shoes or adding a cushion can reduce pain.

Have you visited a podiatrist?

If your bunion has recently become painful, this might be your first invitation to meet with a podiatrist. Make an appointment today. A podiatrist is a foot and ankle specialist familiar with toe deformities as well as treatment options.

When you’ve noticed you’re on the sidelines a bit more because of bunion pain, give us a call. It doesn’t have to be this way. Call us at 
617-232-1752 to make an appointment. Our Newton-Wellesley and Chestnut Hill offices are open during regular business hours. We are still offering a telemedicine option.

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blog Falls Prevention Awareness

Falls Prevention Awareness Month

falls prevention awareness, handrail

September is Falls Prevention Awareness Month. For Americans over the age of 65, a fall is the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries. This month, the doctors at New England Podiatry Associates want to share ways to help our seniors prevent falls and avoid injuries like broken bones.

Start the conversation today by talking with an older loved one and asking these questions:

When was the last time you had your vision checked?

Visits to the optometrist are about more than getting new frames. Regular visits can alert patients to make lifestyle changes as they adjust to their aging eyes. For older Americans, less light reaches the retina. It makes it more difficult to see tripping hazards.

Do you know the side effects of your medication?

Medication can sometimes have side effects, and older Americans may have a few daily prescriptions. From dizziness to dehydration, all of these symptoms can increase the risk of a fall. Additional side effects can also occur when one medication interacts with another.

Have you fallen before?

Some older loved ones may have fallen before, but they were ashamed to share with their family members. If someone has fallen before, they might fall again. Encourage your family member to schedule an appointment with their physician to learn what caused the fall. Conditions like neuropathy also make it dangerous for patients with diabetes; they may not know if they’ve been injured.

How can I help you at home?

Many older Americans have lived in the same home for decades. While they don’t have to move, they may need to make some changes. It includes adding handrails or increasing lighting in hallways and bathrooms. Ask them how you can help with home improvements or other simple tasks around the house.

Showing care and concern is the first step to supporting older loved ones. We’re here to help with any questions you may have about mobility or foot or ankle injuries. Call us at 617-232-1752 to make an appointment. Our Newton-Wellesley office location is open with limited hours. Our Chestnut Hill office is open during regular business hours. We are still offering a telemedicine option.

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blog Foot Health

Laser Treatment for Fungal Toenails

fungal toenails, fungal toenail laser treatment

Fungal toenails are a common problem, but we’re also happy to see our patients’ relief when we tell them about treatment options. We use the PinPointe Laser, which is an FDA-approved treatment. If you’re ready for a quick, painless way to have clear, healthy toenails, the doctors at New England Podiatry Associates are here to share about the process.

First, you will meet with a certified PinPointe provider. It will be your one-on-one consultation.

What is a fungal toenail?

When fungus gets under the toenail, patients can develop discolored, brittle toenails. Left untreated, the fungus can spread to other toes. Over time, a patient may even find it difficult to walk. This condition spreads easily, so it’s important to address the problem fast.

How much does this treatment cost?

Most treatment plans include two sessions. Depending on the number of toes treated, the total cost ranges from $600 to $1,000. Please note: If the procedure is considered only as cosmetic, insurance plans will not cover this treatment.

What if I need more than two treatment sessions?

After 3-6 months, your podiatrist will take a closer look at the toenail to see the progress. They will be looking at the clearing of the base of the new nail. If it looks like you will need additional treatment, the cost is $300 per treatment.

What is the benefit of this treatment?

PinPointe Laser Therapy is quick and painless. Each session takes between 30 and 45 minutes. Other than feeling a heat sensation during the therapy session, patients can expect a pain-free procedure. Our office handles the treatment in-house, and there is no need for anesthesia.

Please contact us to make an appointment. Call us at 617-232-1752. Our Newton-Wellesley office location is open with limited hours. Our Chestnut Hill office is open during regular business hours. If you think you are experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19, we respectfully request that you reschedule your podiatry appointment and reach out to your primary care physician.

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blog Calluses

Calluses and Orthotics

custom orthotic inserts

There are so many benefits of custom orthotics, but we most love how these devices help with common problems that can cause our patients pain. Custom orthotics allow patients to walk in devices specially made to provide comfort to problem areas or points of pain. One of these problem areas can be a callus. A callus is the result of excess friction, and it usually appears on the bottom of your feet. The doctors at New England Podiatry Associates are always happy to help their patients say “goodbye” to pain, even if it all started with a bit too much friction from everyday activities.

What is a callus?

Imagine excess layers of skin that are thickening and hardening. It is a callus. Initially, it may not cause pain. However, if the skin breaks, there is an opportunity for an infection. Over time, a patient can have pain while taking steps.

What is an orthotic?

A podiatrist can prescribe a custom-made orthotic after a thorough exam of your feet and ankles. It includes taking note of the way you walk as well as any other problem areas. There are two types of orthotics: functional and accommodative. For people with calluses, the accommodative orthotic works best. This type provides cushion or support to foot ulcers, too.

What makes custom orthotics different?

Compared to over-the-counter inserts, custom orthotics are made just for you — and your foot needs. We mold them to the shape of your feet. They are also made of high-quality materials that hold up well with proper care.

We continue to share the great news that our Newton-Wellesley office location has reopened with limited hours. Our Chestnut Hill office location remained open during these past months, and we hope to see more of our patients return for their regular appointments.

Please contact us to make an appointment. Call us at 617-232-1752. If you think you are experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19, we respectfully request that you reschedule your podiatry appointment, and contact your primary care physician.

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blog Foot Health

Monitoring Matters

Make Doctor Appointment

We always talk about the importance of regular foot checks. Well, times like these put those healthy habits to the test. While many people have rescheduled annual appointments and only opted for emergency visits, it’s still important to do regular foot checks. This monitoring makes the difference when you come back for a regularly scheduled appointment. The doctors at New England Podiatry Associates want to share the benefits of making, and keeping those appointments:

Ring the alarm

As your podiatrist team, we’re here for you. This means we want to address any problems as quickly as possible. We are in the best position to do so when we learn early of any problems or challenges our patients may be facing. Checking your feet regularly allows you to keep us updated on any changes or concerns you may have about your feet or ankles. With many conditions, the treatment can be fast and simple. Other conditions you may need additional time, attention, and treatments.

Highlight healthy habits

Why not begin a healthy habit? Doing regular foot checks is an effective way to get into a rhythm of living a healthy lifestyle from your head to your toes. For parents, this is also another method of modeling foot hygiene for your children. From washing and drying your feet regularly, to how to properly trim toenails. Keep up the good work.

Know the difference

One of the best benefits of daily foot monitoring results in knowing when to call your podiatrist. It will enable you to better understand when to ring the alarm. Self-awareness of changes to your feet also helps you to have a more confident conversation with your podiatrist. Remember, you know your body, and that helps medical providers, including your foot doctor, have a conversation with you about any concerns you may have. 

Have you heard the news? Our Newton-Wellesley office location has reopened with limited hours. Our Chestnut Hill office location remains open during regular business hours. Please contact us to make an appointment. During the interim, keep up the great work of daily foot checks. Call us at 617-232-1752. If you think you are experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19, we kindly request that you reschedule your podiatry appointment, and contact your primary care physician.

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blog Social Connections

How to Celebrate with Social Distancing Style

While social distancing has put many gatherings on pause, big achievements and milestones are still happening. There are still reasons to celebrate, and we encourage you to not miss these moments. Of course, things will be different. However, you can still safely provide a virtual round of applause. The doctors at New England Podiatry Associates want to remind you of three things to celebrate:

Graduations

If you haven’t taken notice, people are getting very creative with how they are celebrating graduates. From car parades with honking horns to large signs posted in front yards, each graduate deserves to be recognized. While the celebrations right now won’t compare to the walk across the stage or receiving the diploma in person, don’t let this moment pass by. People from all stages of life have worked hard to complete requirements. Celebrate with them.

Birthdays

Send those video call links, and plan a birthday party. People are taking advantage of technology to celebrate birthdays. The guest list can grow — even at the last minute. You’ll also save money on the party snacks. Focus on the guest of honor by making their special treat, playing their favorite movie, and singing the birthday song. With the voices and faces of their many friends, use technology to celebrate another year of life.

Anniversaries

Pick up a meal from your favorite restaurant. Watch a documentary on your honeymoon location. Enjoy a slideshow of your life through the years. The cruise or travel plans may be rescheduled, but there are still many ways to walk down memory lane. Celebrate health and wellness. Most importantly, celebrate each other. This anniversary will certainly be one to remember.

While you’re celebrating in your new way, know that we’re still here and available to help. Our Newton Wellesley office location is temporarily closed, but our Chestnut Hill office location remains open during regular business hours. If you have questions or concerns about your foot or ankle health, call us at 617-232-1752. We kindly ask that you contact your primary care physician and reschedule your appointment if you think you are experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19.