Tag: plantar fasciitis

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blog Heel Pain

5 Ways That Athletes Run Into Heel Pain

Heel pain is a common complaint among athletes that can sideline even the best of them for weeks. But “heel pain” isn’t a single diagnosis!

Several different conditions can cause discomfort in this crucial area, each stemming from different structures and requiring a specific diagnosis. In this blog, New England Podiatry Associates will break down 5 conditions that are often at fault.

1.) Plantar Fasciitis 

Plantar Fasciitis is a leading cause of heel pain in athletes. Inflamed tissues along the bottom of the foot connect to the heel bone, so during and after physical activity, athletes will feel sharp or intense pain under the heel.  

  • Runners are particularly susceptible to plantar fasciitis due to constant pressure on the back of their feet. Athletes with tight calf muscles or who haven’t trained in a while are also at risk.  

2.) Achilles Tendonitis 

The Achilles tendon connects the calf to the heel, so it is technically a cause of heel pain. You’ll hear about a major athlete sustaining a major Achilles injury almost monthly. Tiger Woods just ruptured his in March!

  • Inflammation of this tendon causes a dull ache or stiffness at the back of the heel, or slightly higher up the lower leg. Like plantar fasciitis, it’s often worse in the morning or after rest and can intensify after activity.

3.) Heel Spurs  

Heel spurs are often mistaken for plantar fasciitis because of their similar symptoms, but they are actually bony growths of calcium that form on the underside of the heel bone. 

  • Heel spurs themselves are often painless, but when pain is present, it’s usually because the spur is irritating the surrounding plantar fascia tissue. Athletes develop heel spurs over a long period due to chronic strain on foot muscles and ligaments, often as a secondary response to long-standing plantar fasciitis. 

4.) Sever’s Disease:

 Sever’s Disease is one of the most common causes of heel pain for active young children between the ages of 8 and 12.

  • It’s an inflammation of the heel bone’s growth plate (where the Achilles attaches) that causes pain at the back of the heel during and after activity. 

5.) Heel Pad Contusion:

A deep bruise to the fatty pad under the heel that usually occurs from a hard landing.

  • We see this a lot in basketball players, cross-country runners, and other sports that involve jumping. Over time, continued stress on the heel pad can cause heel fat pad syndrome.  

Does any of the above sound uncomfortably familiar? We can help! Get in touch and step toward relief 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. Contact us today to schedule an appointment! 

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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 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.

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blog EPAT Shockwave Therapy

Stuck in Pain? EPAT Shockwave Therapy Can Help!

Foot and ankle complications can leave you limping, frustrated, and limited, especially when they’re left untreated. The good news? Innovative new tools and methods are helping DPMs manage and resolve chronic conditions, so when more traditional treatments fall short, New England Podiatry wants you to know that you’ve still got options for keeping pain under control.

If you’re dealing with persistent foot or ankle pain that isn’t responding to other therapies, EPAT shockwave therapy might be the answer you’ve been searching for. This blog aims to educate and inform, explaining the ins and outs of how EPAT works and what kinds of problems it’s well suited to solve.

What is EPAT Shockwave Therapy?

EPAT stands for Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Therapy. It’s a non-invasive treatment that utilizes high-energy acoustic waves (sound waves) to promote healing in soft tissues.

  • These waves stimulate the body’s natural healing response, increasing blood flow to the injured area, reducing inflammation, and encouraging tissue regeneration.

When is EPAT a Good Option?

EPAT works well for stubborn foot and ankle conditions that feature chronic pain, including:

Benefits of EPAT Therapy

EPAT boasts several advantages:

  • No needles or incisions are involved, making it comfortable and well-tolerated.
  • EPAT treatments are typically performed in-office, requiring minimal downtime.
  • The benefits of EPAT therapy can be long-lasting, helping you maintain an active lifestyle.

Think EPAT might work well for you? There’s one way to find out: Give us a call!

At New England Podiatry, 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 broad spectrum of foot and ankle conditions. Our practice 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.

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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 Treatment Options

Treatments: Kick Fungus and Pain to the Curb

Fungal toenails and chronic foot pain can be remarkably stubborn and resistant to treatment. However, you don’t have to deal with their frustrating persistence alone. New England Podiatry is always seeking new methods for resolving the many different podiatric conditions that we treat, and today, we’re pleased to share information about two innovative tools to help you reclaim happy, healthy soles.

We’ll explore two cutting-edge treatments: PinPointe Laser therapy for fungal nails and EPAT (Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Technology) shockwave therapy for pain relief.

PinPointe Laser: Shining a Light on Fungus

  • Onychomycosis, the technical term for fungal toenails, can make you want to hide your feet under mountains of socks. Traditional topical treatments can be messy, time-consuming, and often ineffective.
  • Yet that’s certainly not the case with the PinPointe Laser. This powerful tool emits a precise wavelength that penetrates the nail plate, targeting the fungal culprits at their source.
  • The best part? It’s virtually painless, and most patients require just one treatment! Studies show impressive results, with some suggesting that 80% of cases experience clear nail growth.

EPAT Shockwaves: Rebooting Your Pain Relief System

  • Foot pain can range from a dull ache to a searing pain. Plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, and chronic tendonitis are common causes, often leaving traditional treatments feeling insufficient.
  • This is where EPAT shockwaves come in. These acoustic pulses stimulate blood flow, promote healing, and reduce inflammation, effectively rebooting your pain relief system.
  • EPAT is non-invasive, requires minimal downtime, and provides long-lasting results.
  • This FDA-approved procedure has very high success rates that are equal to or greater than those of traditional methods, including surgery.

Wondering if EPAT or PinPointe might be the solution your feet have been waiting for? There’s much more to say about each of these powerful podiatric tools, but we think that seeing them in action is the best way to understand just how effective they can be. 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!