Tag: custom orthotics

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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!

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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.

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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!

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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.

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blog Heel Pain

Say No to Heel Spurs

Heel Spurs

Americans take an average of 5,000 steps per day. As we grow older, those steps turn into miles, and those miles can easily lead to a lot of wear and tear if we’re not careful. Around 10% of the population will develop a heel spur at some point in their life, making it one of the most common foot conditions you can have. If you’re a runner or stand on your feet for long hours every day, you’re at a higher risk of getting it. But luckily, there are some ways you can prevent this from happening, no matter how active you are. Let’s take a look…

What Is a Heel Spur?

To better prevent heel spurs, it’s important to understand what they are and why they develop in the first place. A heel spur is an extra calcium deposit that lies on the base of your heel bone. Bony growths develop and you’ll likely experience pain, inflammation, and swelling. However, it is possible to not experience any pain at all.

Heel spurs don’t show up in those with a gentle workout routine. It’s a wear and tear condition, occurring when excess stress and strain on your heels build up over time. Runners, professional athletes, and those who stand or walk on their feet all day are commonly the ones affected.

Preventing Heel Spurs

If you want to steer clear of any pain and discomfort that heel spurs can bring, you’re in luck! There are plenty of ways you can keep your feet healthy and safe. Here are some of our top tips for avoiding a heel spur:

  • Buying the right size shoe
  • Wearing shoes with arch support
  • Picking dirt or grass walking trails
  • Avoiding exercise classes on cement or hardwood floors
  • Invest in custom orthotics
  • Eat a healthy, balanced diet.

At New England Podiatry Associates, Dr. Ronald Etskovitz, Dr. Raymond Murano III, Dr. Catherine Jacobs, 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.

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blog Foot Health Men's Health

Celebrating Men’s Health Month

feet

As we celebrate Men’s Health Month this June, we are also spreading awareness about the importance of understanding prevalent health issues in men and how they can be identified and treated in a timely manner. Most men ignore their symptoms and end up with severe foot health problems, whereas early detection and diagnosis can save them from pain and misery.

Here are a few important things that you should know:

  • Foot hygiene is key to taking care of your feet. Washing, drying, regularly moisturizing them can prevent fungal and bacterial infections. Changing your shoes daily also prevents the accumulation of sweat and bacteria inside your shoes. Wearing clean socks made of breathable fabric is also good for your feet’s hygiene.
  • Custom orthotics – are not used for severe or critical foot health issues only. You can wear them daily to improve your gait, provide support and stability to your feet and relieve excessive stress from pressure points. Consult with your podiatrist to see if you require customized orthotic devices.
  • Foot pain is a warning sign – do not ignore it. If you are suffering from persistent foot or heel pain, it could be a symptom of plantar fasciitis, bone or joint deformity, flat feet, or other issues. You should visit your podiatrist to understand your underlying condition and how it can be adequately treated.
  • Examine your feet regularly to see if there are any changes in the color or texture of your skin, toenails, and overall feet. Ingrown toenails can cause tenderness and swelling around the nail bed. Flaky or dry skin can lead to cuts and wounds if left untreated. Fungal infections can be detected by discoloration of the skin or nails and odor. If you notice anything unusual, schedule a visit with your foot doctor without delay.
  • You should visit your podiatrist even if you feel you do not have any foot health issues. Regular checkups can help detect issues like arthritis, diabetes, nerve damage, and more.

Contact a podiatrist for the best advice if you have any questions or concerns about your lower legs, ankles, and feet.

At New England Podiatry Associates, Dr. Michael Hass, Dr. Alan Green, Dr. Stephen Tubridy, Dr. Ronald Etskovitz, Dr. Raymond Murano III, Dr. Catherine Jacobs, and Dr. Zachary Sax 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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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.

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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.