Tag: bunions

Categories
blog Orthotics

Do You Need Orthotics? Find Out if Custom Inserts Can Help Your Feet

Are you experiencing foot pain, discomfort, or problems with your gait? You might need custom orthotics! Also known as shoe inserts, these devices can support, align, and improve the function of your feet. In the Q&A below, New England Podiatry Associates will help you determine if you need a pair.

Q: Do you have… Morning Heel Pain?

  • The Problem: Sharp, stabbing pain in your heel with your first steps in the morning or after periods of rest is a classic sign of plantar fasciitis. This is inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue on the bottom of your foot.
  • How Orthotics Help: Custom orthotics provide arch support and cushioning, reducing stress on the plantar fascia and allowing it to heal.

Q: Do you have… Flat Feet or High Arches?

  • The Problem: Both flat feet (pes planus) and high arches (pes cavus) can cause problems. Flat feet often overpronate (roll inward excessively), while high arches don’t absorb shock effectively.
  • How Orthotics Help:
    • Flat Feet: Orthotics provide arch support, control overpronation, and improve foot alignment.
    • High Arches: Orthotics offer cushioning and distribute pressure more evenly across the foot.

Q: Do you have… Bunions or Hammertoes?

  • The Problem: These foot deformities can cause pain, pressure, and difficulty fitting into shoes.
  • How Orthotics Help: While orthotics can’t reverse bunions or hammertoes, they can help slow their progression, relieve pressure, and improve comfort.

Q: Do you have… Pain in Your Knees, Hips, or Back?

  • The Problem: Foot problems can often cause a “chain reaction” of pain up the body. Poor foot alignment can alter your gait and posture, leading to stress on your knees, hips, and back.
  • How Orthotics Help: By correcting foot alignment and improving biomechanics, orthotics can reduce strain on these other joints and alleviate pain.

Q: Do you have… Diabetes or Circulation Problems?

Are Orthotics Right for You?

Over-the-counter inserts are cookie-cutter solutions, and they won’t be covered by insurance or HSA funds. Get in touch and grab your pair of custom orthotics from New England Podiatry today!

Dr. Catherine Jacobs, Dr. Zachary Sax, Dr. Joshua Oulette, Dr. Ronald Etskovitz, and Dr. Raymond Murano III of New England Podiatry Associates provide comprehensive medical and surgical care for a wide spectrum of foot and ankle conditions. We’ve proudly served the Boston area since 1984, utilizing state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment technology to find the best solution for each individual. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!

Categories
blog Obesity

Feeling the Pressure: The Structural Injuries of Obesity

As obesity puts significant stress on the body, the feet and ankles especially bear the brunt. And while podiatrists commonly associate excess weight with diabetes, neuropathy, and other internal foot complications, not enough focus is placed on the structural problems and the mobility limit that occur because of weight gain.

In this article, we at New England Podiatry Associates are emphasizing these affects, along with the injuries that result from them.

The Impact of Obesity on Feet and Ankles

  • Increased pressure: Extra weight places additional pressure on the feet, leading to conditions like plantar fasciitis, heel pain, and metatarsalgia.
  • Joint stress: Obesity can accelerate joint degeneration, particularly in the ankles and feet.
  • Structural changes: Over time, excessive weight can lead to structural changes in the feet, such as flat feet or bunions.
  • Skin issues: Obesity can increase the risk of skin problems, including fungal infections and calluses.
  • Reduced mobility: Foot and ankle pain associated with obesity can limit physical activity, leading to further weight gain and a vicious cycle.

Common Foot and Ankle Injuries Linked to Obesity

With these challenges and changes due to obesity, certain injuries are bound to occur. For instance, ankle sprains become common due to the destabilization of the ankle joint. The added pressure on the heel, ankle, and forefoot can also lead to plantar fasciitis, metatarsalgia, and Achilles tendonitis.

For morbidly obese people, stress fractures are a possibility due to repetitive impact from walking or standing. The severe pressure on the feet can also lead to open sores that are slow to heal. And with limited mobility, they increase the risk of infection due to their inability to thoroughly clean affected areas.

Prevention

Preventing and managing these injuries often involves weight loss, proper footwear, and orthotics. If you experience persistent foot or ankle pain due to obesity, consult with a podiatrist for evaluation and treatment.

At New England Podiatry Associates, Dr. Ronald Etskovitz, Dr. Raymond Murano III, Dr. Catherine Jacobs, Dr. Joshua Ouellette, and Dr. Zachary Sax are always pleased to assist. We offer convenient locations in Norfolk, Suffolk, and Middlesex Counties. Contact our Chestnut Hill office at 617-232-1752 and our Newton-Wellesley office at 617-630-8280 to schedule an appointment today.

Categories
blog Surgery

Foot and Ankle Surgery: When, How, and Why

At New England Podiatry, we know that foot and ankle surgery is often seen as a last resort. However, for many individuals, it’s the key to restoring mobility, relieving pain, and improving overall quality of life.

While conservative treatments such as physical therapy or orthotics are typically the first line of defense, there are instances when surgery becomes the most effective solution. Below, you’ll find a blog explaining when and why that’s the case.

When is Foot and Ankle Surgery Necessary?

The decision to undergo foot or ankle surgery is a significant one, and it should be made in close consultation with a podiatrist. But generally, surgical intervention is often considered if:

  1. Conservative Treatments Fail: If non-surgical methods haven’t provided adequate relief or improvement after a reasonable period, surgery may be an option.
  2. Deformities Persist: Conditions like bunions, hammertoes, or flat feet that cause pain, difficulty walking, or shoe-fitting problems may require surgical correction.
  3. Underlying Medical Conditions Exist: In cases where diabetes, arthritis, or other medical conditions lead to foot or ankle complications, surgery might be necessary to prevent further damage or complications.

Common Foot and Ankle Surgical Procedures

Some common surgical interventions include:

  • Bunionectomy:

Corrects bunions by realigning the big toe, removing excess bone and tissue from the enlarged joint, and repositioning the toe itself.

  • Ankle fusion:

 Stabilizes an unstable ankle joint. This procedure involves removing the cartilage from the ankle joint and then securing the bones together with plates, screws, or pins.

  • Achilles tendon repair:

Repairs a ruptured or damaged Achilles tendon. Surgery involves reattaching the torn tendon to the heel bone using stitches or staples and may require the use of a cast or boot for immobilization.

The Decision to Have Surgery

Several factors are considered, including the severity of your condition, your overall health, and your expectations for the surgery. Ultimately, your podiatrist will work alongside you to determine the best course of action.

At New England Podiatry Associates, Dr. Ronald Etskovitz, Dr. Raymond Murano III, Dr. Catherine Jacobs, Dr. Joshua Ouellette, and Dr. Zachary Sax are always pleased to assist. We offer convenient locations in Norfolk, Suffolk, and Middlesex Counties. Contact our Chestnut Hill office at 617-232-1752 and our Newton-Wellesley office at 617-630-8280 to schedule an appointment today.

Categories
blog Bunion Treatment

Bunion Blues? Lapiplasty Might Be Your Path to Pain-Free Feet

Bunions – those bony bumps at the base of your big toe can cause serious pain and discomfort. Worse, they make it difficult to find shoes that fit or participate in activities you typically enjoy.

If you’ve tried conservative treatments like padding and wider shoes with little success, Lapiplasty surgery might be the answer you’ve been searching for. To help those in need learn about this powerful and innovative procedure, the team at New England Podiatry has decided to put together a brief blog on the subject.

What Makes It Different?

As a more recently developed procedure, Lapiplasty stands apart from other surgical techniques.

  • Traditional bunionectomy procedures often address the bump itself by shaving down the bone or shifting it sideways.
  • While this might offer temporary relief, it doesn’t address the underlying cause: A misaligned joint at the base of the big toe.
  • This misalignment, affecting all three dimensions (length, width, and rotation), is what Lapiplasty targets.

A 3D Approach

Bunions are multifaceted problems, so it’s lucky that Lapiplasty provides a multifaceted solution.

  • To perform a Lapiplasty procedure, a podiatrist uses specialized tools to meticulously realign the bones in the big toe joint.
  • This not only corrects the bump but also repairs the natural structure of your foot.
  • Small titanium plates are used to hold the bones in their new position. This allows for faster healing and a return to painless weight-bearing.

Benefits of Lapiplasty

Compared to traditional bunion surgery, Lapiplasty offers several advantages:

  • Reduced recurrence:

By addressing the root cause of the bunion, Lapiplasty aims to prevent the deformity from returning or worsening.

  • Faster recovery: 

The minimally invasive nature of Lapiplasty and the use of titanium plates contribute to a quicker healing process.

  • Improved long-term outcome: 

A more anatomically correct repair of the joint can lead to better pain relief and function.

Suffering from bunions with no solution in sight? We’re here and ready to help you learn more! Contact us to see if Lapiplasty is the solution you’ve been seeking.

Dr. Catherine Jacobs, Dr. Zachary Sax, Dr. Joshua Oulette, Dr. Ronald Etskovitz, and Dr. Raymond Murano III  provide comprehensive medical and surgical care for a wide spectrum of foot and ankle conditions and injuries. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!

Categories
blog Foot Check-Ups

Prevent 3 Foot Conditions with Regular Check-Ups

It’s all too easy to neglect your feet and ankles until pain signals a problem. Unfortunately, by waiting that long, patients often incur other injuries and related conditions, many of which are difficult, unpleasant, or time-consuming to resolve & prevent.

Think of a podiatric checkup as an investment in your future foot health – a proactive approach that can save you from the aches, pains, and costs of more advanced conditions. New England Podiatry is all about early intervention, so we’ve put together some info on 3 common foot and ankle issues that early detection by a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) can help you prevent.

1–Athlete’s Foot:

This contagious issue, one of the many fungal infections that strike at the feet, thrives in sweaty spaces such as shoes and locker rooms. Left unchecked, it spreads to your nails, causing painful cracks, itching, and burning. Early diagnosis and treatment can nip it in the bud, sparing you embarrassment and discomfort.

2–Bunions:

These bony bumps at the base of your big toe develop due to pressure and misalignment. While slow-growing, they distort your toes, leading to pain, inflammation, and walking difficulties. Regular foot checks by a DPM identify developing bunions and suggest corrective measures like orthotics or early intervention surgery, preventing the need for invasive procedures later.

3–Plantar Fasciitis:

This inflammation of the ligament supporting your arch is a common source of heel pain. Ignoring it leads to chronic discomfort, impacting mobility and daily activities. A DPM assesses your gait, recommends custom orthotics, and suggests stretches or physical therapy to address the root cause, sparing you months of pain and limitations.

It’s always best to stay a step ahead of problems before they are exacerbated by inattention or neglect, but sometimes that just isn’t possible. Luckily, New England Podiatry makes use of the most powerful and innovative technology around to treat all of the issues above. If you’re in need, we can help!

At New England Podiatry Associates, Dr. Ronald Etskovitz, Dr. Raymond Murano III, Dr. Catherine Jacobs, Dr. Joshua Ouellette, and Dr. Zachary Sax are always pleased to assist. We offer convenient locations in Norfolk, Suffolk, and Middlesex Counties. Contact our Chestnut Hill office at 617-232-1752 and our Newton-Wellesley office at 617-630-8280 to schedule an appointment today.

Categories
blog Foot Care

Your Feet Deserve More in 2024

We’ve stepped into a fresh New Year, 2024, and it’s brimming with possibilities. Yet while resolutions often focus on distant horizons, sometimes the greatest rewards lie closer to home – right beneath our feet, to be precise!

New England Podiatry emphasizes cutting-edge treatment technology, but we’re also committed to patient education. So, this year, let’s prioritize the often-overlooked heroes of our daily journeys: Our feet.

Here are some easy-to-implement resolutions for happy, healthy feet that will carry you confidently throughout 2024:

1. Deal with Cracked Heels: Dry, cracked heels are unsightly and painful. Combat them with regular moisturizing, and consider wearing open-back shoes at home to allow your skin to breathe.

2. Clip with Care: Proper nail care is paramount! Trim your nails straight across, avoiding rounded edges that can dig into neighboring toes. Invest in quality nail clippers and disinfect them regularly.

3. Ditch the Tight Fits: Say no to toe-pinching footwear. Instead, go for shoes that comfortably accommodate your foot shape and width. Adequate space is crucial for preventing bunions, corns, and hammertoes.

4. Move it or Lose it: Regular exercise is essential for your feet, too! Gentle stretching, walking, or even dancing can improve circulation, strengthen muscles, and prevent stiffness.

5. Make Prevention a Priority: Schedule regular podiatric checkups for comprehensive foot health assessments. Early detection and preventive care can nip potential problems in the bud before they turn into more significant concerns.

6. Embrace Sock Savvy: Choose socks made from breathable, moisture-wicking materials like cotton or wool. Avoid tight socks that can restrict circulation and promote fungal growth.

7. Treat Your Feet to a Foot Massage: Self-massage or a professional session can ease tension, improve circulation, and leave your feet feeling fresh.

Wondering what you can do to maintain good foot and ankle health? The easiest way to find out is simple: come check in with our expert podiatrists!

Dr. Catherine Jacobs, Dr. Zachary Sax, Dr. Joshua Oulette, Dr. Ronald Etskovitz, and Dr. Raymond Murano III  provide comprehensive medical and surgical care for a wide spectrum of foot and ankle conditions and injuries. Our firm has proudly served the Boston area since 1984. We utilize state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment technology to find the best solution for each individual. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!

Categories
blog Orthotics

Orthotics: Stay Sure Footed

Orthotics

Our feet bear the brunt of our hectic lifestyles, so why not give them a boost? At New England Podiatry, we’re proud to do so by offering the very best in custom-fitted orthotics!

Our expert DPMs decided they’d do your feet a solid and provide helpful tips regarding orthotics and their benefits. Look below and see if these sole-saving devices are right for you!

Two Types of Support

Orthotics come in two different varieties:

  • Functional orthotics:

These control the irregular motion of the foot. Often, they’re composed of a semi-rigid material, such as graphite or plastic.

  • Accommodative Orthotics:

This variety focuses on comfort and support. They treat painful conditions like diabetic foot ulcers or sensitive calluses.

Now that you know the options, you might wonder: why seek out orthotics in the first place?

Simple! Orthotics can…

Reduce Fatigue

Unlike mass-produced insoles, custom orthotics address arch height, foot shape, and gait pattern, which helps reduce fatigue associated with prolonged standing or walking.

Soothe and Manage Foot Pain

Whether you’re dealing with plantar fasciitis or bunions, orthotics provide targeted relief. They alleviate chronic aches by redistributing pressure and supporting the natural arch of the foot.

Improved Posture and Joint Health

Feet are the foundation of a body’s biomechanics, and any imbalance can have cascading consequences. Custom orthotics work to correct said imbalances, promoting proper alignment. This reduces strain on the feet, which takes pressure off the knees, hips, and lower back, preventing long-term musculoskeletal issues.

Enhanced Athletic Performance

By providing superior shock absorption, inserts improve stability and reduce the risk of injuries during sports or intense physical activities. Customized support can contribute to better energy transfer and efficiency, too.

Dr. Catherine Jacobs, Dr. Zachary Sax, Dr. Joshua Oulette, Dr. Ronald Etskovitz, and Dr. Raymond Murano III of New England Podiatry Associates provide comprehensive medical and surgical care for a wide spectrum of foot and ankle conditions and injuries. Our firm has proudly served the Boston area since 1984. We utilize state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment technology to find the best solution for each individual. Contact us today to schedule an appointment, and we’ll see if custom orthotics are the right fit for you!

Categories
blog

What You Should Know About Diabetic Foot Care

People with diabetes are prone to many foot problems. When you have diabetes, being aware of how foot problems can arise from disturbances in the skin, nails, nerves, bones, muscles, and blood vessels is essential. Furthermore, in diabetics, small foot problems can turn into serious complications. Let’s look at what you need to know to manage this condition for healthy feet.

The Risk of Diabetes

Both nerve damage (neuropathy) and poor blood circulation can cause loss of feeling in your feet. This may take away your ability to feel pain and discomfort, making it difficult to detect an injury. Poor circulation in your feet also reduces your ability to heal, making it hard for even a tiny cut to resist infection.

Having diabetes puts you at risk for developing a wide range of foot problems, such as:

What You Can Do

Luckily, you can do a variety of things to decrease the risk of developing serious complications from diabetes. You play a vital role in reducing complications. Here are some tips:

  • Inspect your feet daily.
  • Pay attention to the color of your feet and toes. If they turn red, pink, or purplish, poor circulation may be a problem.
  • Don’t ignore foot or leg pain.
  • Keep floors free of sharp objects. With reduced sensitivity, you may not notice any inflicted wounds or cuts on your feet.
  • Don’t go barefoot. Wear shoes indoors and outdoors.

At New England Podiatry Associates, Dr. Ronald Etskovitz, Dr. Raymond Murano III, Dr. Catherine Jacobs, Dr. Joshua Ouellette, and Dr. Zachary Sax treat various foot and ankle conditions. 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.

Categories
blog Foot Care

Help Your Feet Age Healthily

September is Healthy Aging Month! It is the perfect time to take a moment to look at the most common problems older people have with their feet and then go over some easy tips seniors can take to make sure their feet are the healthiest they can be. How can you help your feet? Let’s take a look.

Common Problems for Aging Feet

Older people can have many problems with their feet as they age. Here are the most common ones:

Senior Foot Care Tips

Your feet naturally age with the rest of your body, but that doesn’t mean you have to put up with painful foot problems. Follow these tips to keep your feet in the best shape possible:

  • Wear proper footwear. Make sure your shoes are flexible, and they fit correctly.
  • Visit an experienced podiatrist.
  • Maintain good circulation. You can do this by getting regular exercise. Just walking daily for an hour is beneficial. You can also massage your feet to increase circulation. Avoiding sitting for long periods also helps. If you smoke, quit as soon as possible.
  • Keep your feet warm. Heavy socks can help keep the cold out.
  • Clean your feet daily. Make sure you use soap and water.
  • Use lotion. As we age, our skin can become drier. Applying lotion can prevent cracks that may occur with dry skin.
  • Check your feet every day.
  • Avoid walking barefoot.
  • Use a cane. Older people may have problems with balance, which can lead to a bad fall. A cane or walker can help.
  • Stretch before any strenuous activity. It can help your feet stay flexible.

If you are experiencing any pain or discomfort with your feet, contact your podiatrist ASAP!

At New England Podiatry Associates, Dr. Ronald Etskovitz, Dr. Raymond Murano III, Dr. Catherine Jacobs, Dr. Joshua Ouellette, and Dr. Zachary Sax treat various foot and ankle conditions. 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.

Categories
blog Bunion Treatment

Take Care of Your Bunions

A bunion is a progressive toe deformity. Where do you see the signs? Mainly on the big toe joint. You may notice an out-of-place bump, and you may also experience pain. For some, sight alone is the biggest problem. Toe deformities typically continue to progress, and you’ll need treatment to manage. In the meantime, here are some things you should know about this condition.

Signs and symptoms of bunions include…

  • A bulging bump, redness, and swelling at the big toe joint.
  • Corns and calluses can develop on and near the bunion.
  • People who have bunions frequently develop a hammertoe or two.
  • Ingrown toenails are more likely to occur when you have a bunion.

How to Treat Bunions

  • Physical therapy exercises: Various stretching and strengthening exercises can be performed to keep the big toe joint and tendons flexible. They can provide pain relief and help to improve strength and flexibility after bunion surgery.
  • Wear properly fitted shoes with a wide toe box: Wear shoes with a wide toe box and a deeper heel cup to prevent rubbing and provide room for orthotic braces and inserts. A wide toe box will also help prevent the friction of your big toe rubbing on your footwear, which can cause painful corns to develop on the bunion.
  • Pads and cushions: Pads and cushioning devices are available to isolate the bunion and any corns that may have formed.
  • Custom orthotics and braces: A specially made bunion brace can be used while sleeping to spread the toes apart. Over time, the toe will gradually straighten.

If you have a painful bunion, call your podiatrist ASAP! Don’t wait for treatment.

At New England Podiatry Associates, Dr. Ronald Etskovitz, Dr. Raymond Murano III, Dr. Catherine Jacobs, Dr. Joshua Ouellette, and Dr. Zachary Sax, treat various foot and ankle conditions. 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.

Categories
Bunion Treatment

Is Bunion Surgery the Solution?

bare foot with bunion

A bunion is a progressive toe deformity. For some patients, the bump alongside the big toe doesn’t cause pain. It may simply be a visible difference on the foot. For other patients, however, a bunion can become very painful. The discomfort can impact day-to-day activities, including putting on shoes or walking. One option for treating this condition is surgery. However, the New England Podiatry Associates consider this only after providing patients with less-invasive options.

Here are three suggestions to consider before surgery:

Choose custom orthotics 

A podiatrist can prescribe custom orthotics to relieve the pain from your bunion. During the exam, the specialist gathers data. They will then use this information to create a one-of-a-kind pair for your feet, from how you walk to the specific location of pain, every detail matters. Ask your doctor if orthotics are right for you.

Consider a larger shoe size

Tight shoes are a problem for patients who have a bunion. The lack of wiggle room only causes additional friction and ultimately more pain and discomfort. We recommend our patients visit a shoe store to get properly measured. Exploring shoe options with a wide toe box can show your feet some extra love. 

Calm the pain with cushioning

Padding and cushion are helpful for patients dealing with bunion pain. Schedule an appointment with your podiatrist to learn about over-the-counter options. With this conservative treatment, patients may be able to find pain relief without surgery. We’re here to help you consider all your options.  

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.

Categories
blog

Family and Feet

Did you know that some foot conditions are inherited? One common foot condition is a bunion. For most people, this bump along the big toe joint is noticeable but painless; for others, this condition can cause pain. The doctors at New England Podiatry Associates help provide information — and relief — to those who may have gotten more than eye color or hair type from a family member. If you experience pain in the area of your big toe and have a bump around your large toe joint, you may have inherited a toe deformity. 

Besides family history, are there other causes?

In addition to an inherited foot type, other common causes include wearing high-heeled or ill-fitting shoes or experiencing foot injuries. Bunions are also common with different types of arthritis or in people who experience a lot of stress on their feet throughout the workday.

How does a bunion form?

When your big toe begins to push up against your other toes, your big toe joint moves in the opposite direction (outwardly and away from the normal profile of your foot). While this may not bother some people, a bunion can become increasingly painful while walking or doing other movement activities. It’s best to see a podiatrist at the first sign of development. A foot and ankle expert can provide ways to prevent or reduce pain.

Is surgery the only solution?

No, there are other conservative treatments to try before considering surgery. The goal is to provide comfort and reduce pain, but these treatments will not remove the toe deformity. Non-surgical treatments include:

  • Changing shoes
  • Adding padding or cushion
  • Modifying activities
  • Using medication
  • Icing the area
  • Wearing orthotics

If you inherited a bunion, no worries. Our doctors will work with you to find the treatment that works best for you and allows you to continue your regular activities. Visit us soon by calling (617) 630-8280. You can visit our doctors at two locations: Chestnut Hill, which serves Norfolk, Suffolk, and Middlesex counties; and Newton Wellesley Hospital, which serves Middlesex County.