Have you noticed discoloration of your toenails? Have they become thickened or brittle? If so, you may be experiencing symptoms of a fungal nail infection. For some, having a fungal nail can be embarrassing. Overcome your embarrassment, and get treated.
Ankle fusion surgery, also called ankle arthrodesis, is a procedure used to relieve severe ankle pain by permanently joining the bones of the ankle joint. One advantage of ankle fusion is reliable pain reduction, especially for people with advanced arthritis, joint damage, or deformity that limits walking. By eliminating joint motion, the ankle can become more stable and better aligned, which may improve daily function. Fusion is also durable and may last longer than other surgical options in certain cases. However, there are drawbacks to consider. Loss of ankle movement can change walking mechanics and place added stress on nearby joints in the foot, which may lead to discomfort over time. Recovery can be lengthy and often requires a period of limited weight-bearing. A podiatrist carefully evaluates whether the benefits outweigh the risks based on symptoms, activity level, and overall foot structure. If you have ankle problems, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a full exam and treatment options.
Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our doctors of New England Foot & Ankle . Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
When Is Surgery Necessary?
Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:
What Types of Surgery Are There?
The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:
Benefits of Surgery
Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.
Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.
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.
Ingrown toenail surgery is often recommended when an ingrown nail becomes painful or infected. Symptoms usually include swelling, drainage, and overgrown skin along the nail edge. The toe may look inflamed or shiny and can feel sore at first, then progress to sharp pain, throbbing, or tenderness that makes wearing shoes difficult. Causes include repeated improper nail trimming, tight footwear, and genetic factors that cause the nail to curve into the skin. A podiatrist can help from the start by examining the toe, confirming the diagnosis, and determining whether infection or deeper tissue involvement is present. Early care may include conservative treatment, but when symptoms persist, a minor in-office surgical procedure can safely remove the ingrown portion of the nail. Treatment then moves into proper wound care, infection prevention, and long-term solutions to reduce recurrence. If you have a painful ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.
Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, 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.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.
Causes
Prevention
Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.
Treatment
Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.
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.
Choosing the right running shoes plays a major role in performance, overall foot health, and injury prevention. Proper footwear helps absorb impact, improve stability, and support natural movement with every step. Wearing the wrong shoes can increase stress on muscles, joints, and tendons, leading to pain or overuse injuries. Different types of shoes are designed for specific activities. Road running shoes are ideal for pavement and treadmills, while trail shoes offer traction and protection on uneven surfaces. Cross training shoes provide versatility for varied workouts, and specialized shoes address unique foot or gait needs. A podiatrist can assess your foot structure, running habits, and biomechanics to recommend the best shoe type and perhaps custom orthotics. If foot pain or recurring injuries are affecting your runs, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief methods and guidance tips.
You should always make sure your running shoes fit properly in order to avoid injury. For more information, 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.
Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type
Improper shoe sizing can cause a myriad of problems for your feet. Shoes that don’t fit you properly can lead to muscular imbalances in your body, which can result in foot, knee, and hip injuries.
Tips for Finding the Right Running Shoe
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.
Bunions are a common foot condition where the tip of the big toe gradually shifts toward the smaller toes, creating a visible bump at the side of the foot. They are often caused by inherited foot structure, wearing improper footwear, arthritis, or repeated pressure on the joint. A bunion may look red, swollen, or enlarged and can feel tender, stiff, or painful, especially when walking or wearing narrow shoes. Some people experience burning sensations or limited toe movement. A podiatrist can help from the start by evaluating foot structure, gait, and joint alignment, sometimes using imaging to confirm the diagnosis. Non-surgical treatments may include footwear recommendations, padding, custom orthotics, and targeted exercises to reduce strain and improve comfort. Early management can slow progression, ease pain, and improve daily mobility. If you have a painful bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.
If you are suffering from bunions, 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.
What Is a Bunion?
A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.
Why Do Bunions Form?
Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary
Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions
How Are Bunions Diagnosed?
Podiatrists often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your provider.
How Are Bunions Treated?
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.
