podiatrist Archives - New England Podiatry

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.

Who Needs A Podiatrist?

If you have foot or ankle problems, the answer is simple: you need a podiatrist. Although many people assume that podiatrists are only useful for very specific foot and ankle issues, the truth is that we’re here to help with everything ranging from an ingrown toenail to a bunion to a fracture. The doctors at New England Podiatry Associates are among the 15,000 practicing podiatrists in the United States. Get familiar with the field of podiatry. You’ll quickly learn how much a podiatrist can become a part of your care team and meet your needs.

Do podiatrists go to medical school?

Yes, a podiatrist has undergraduate medical school training. They then attend graduate school to receive a doctorate in podiatry. Each podiatrist is required to take state and national exams; a podiatrist must also be licensed in the state in which they practice.

Can young people benefit from a podiatrist?

Yes, although our aging bodies often increase the demand for foot and ankle attention, younger people also have foot problems. Young athletes are prone to foot and ankle injuries; young children can have ingrown toenails, warts, and more; and toddlers may have flat feet or other conditions that impact their movement.

I don’t have any issues now. Are there benefits of going to a podiatrist?

Podiatrists are in the business of helping to not only solve foot problems but also prevent them. If your family has a history of foot issues, if you play a sport, or if you simply have questions about the right kind of running shoes, visit a podiatrist.

I saw orthotics at my local pharmacy. Why should I make another stop?

Podiatrists can create custom-made orthotics to address your individual foot needs. These orthotics last longer and make a big difference in reducing pain. Still have questions? Schedule a visit 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.