June 2024

Throughout your life, your feet will carry you thousands of miles, enduring wear and tear that can lead to various common foot problems. Aging feet are prone to widening and arch collapse, which can increase the likelihood of issues like plantar fasciitis, flat feet, and osteoarthritis. Regular self-examinations can help you identify early signs of trouble, such as calluses, blisters, and discolored toenails, which may require changes in footwear or custom orthotics. Plantar fasciitis, marked by heel pain, often benefits from performing specific exercises, and supportive shoe inserts. Flat feet, where your arches have flattened out, can cause discomfort and swelling, best managed with orthotic inserts and shoes with arch support. Additionally, osteoarthritis in your feet can lead to joint pain and stiffness, manageable through topical pain relievers, anti-inflammatory medications, and sometimes corticosteroid injections. Proactive foot care and seeking timely treatment for foot problems are important ways to maintain your mobility and improve quality of life. If you are experiencing persistent foot pain or discomfort, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for specialized foot care.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our doctors from New England Foot & Ankle . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Wakefield, MA, Nashua and Derry, NH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot pain is a significant concern among the elderly population that contributes to an increased risk of falls and related injuries. As people age, they may experience various foot problems such as arthritis, neuropathy, and decreased sensation, any of which can affect balance and stability. Foot pain can make it challenging for older adults to walk safely and confidently, increasing the likelihood of slips, trips, and falls. These falls can result in serious injuries like fractures, head injuries, and a loss of functioning independently. Therefore, it is important for seniors experiencing foot pain to seek professional care from a podiatrist to address underlying issues and implement preventive measures. Changes in regimens like wearing proper footwear, doing foot exercises, and getting regular foot examinations can help reduce foot pain and minimize the risk of falls, enabling older adults to maintain their mobility and quality of life. If you are elderly or someone you know who is elderly experiences foot pain or frequent falls, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation. 

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our doctors from New England Foot & Ankle . Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Wakefield, MA, Nashua and Derry, NH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Are your feet frequently cold or numb? If so, you may be experiencing poor circulation, a condition that affects blood flow to the feet. Poor circulation can lead to a range of uncomfortable symptoms, including cold feet, numbness, tingling sensations, and sometimes slowly healing wounds. This condition is often caused by underlying health issues such as diabetes, peripheral artery disease, or vascular problems. Ignoring poor circulation can lead to serious complications, including tissue damage and infections. Don't let poor circulation hold you back from enjoying life. If you are experiencing poor circulation in your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss treatment options and prevent any further complications or discomfort. 

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact one of our doctors of New England Foot & Ankle . Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness   
• Numbness or cramping in the legs 
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Wakefield, MA, Nashua and Derry, NH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Toenail fungus often develops in distinct stages, progressing gradually if left untreated. Initially, it may appear as a small white or yellow spot under the nail tip. As the infection advances, the nail may thicken and take on a yellowish hue, spreading deeper into the nail bed. Without intervention, the fungus continues its relentless progression, causing the nail to become brittle and crumble at the edges. As the infection worsens, the nail may darken in color, emitting a foul odor, and detachment from the nail bed becomes a possibility. This advanced stage not only affects the appearance of the nail but also brings discomfort and potential complications. Recognizing the signs early on is essential for effective treatment. Consulting a podiatrist for proper diagnosis and guidance is necessary to halt the progression and prevent further damage. If you notice toenail fungus developing, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can prescribe medication for a complete healing.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact one of our doctors of New England Foot & Ankle . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Wakefield, MA, Nashua and Derry, NH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.