An ankle sprain happens when the strong bands of tissue that help hold the ankle together are stretched or torn. This can happen when the foot twists, rolls, or turns in an unusual direction. Ankle sprains can occur while playing sports, walking on uneven ground, or stepping awkwardly. Pain, swelling, and difficulty putting weight on the foot can develop after an injury. The severity depends on how much the supporting tissue has been damaged. A mild sprain can cause stretching, while a more serious sprain can involve a partial or complete tear. A podiatrist can examine the ankle and determine the severity of the injury. 

A podiatrist can check the ankle’s movement, stability, and areas of tenderness. This examination helps determine whether the injury is a sprain or another problem, like a broken bone. Treatment depends on the severity of the sprain and how the ankle is functioning. Care can include protecting the injured ankle, supporting the joint, and using a structured plan to restore movement and strength. A podiatrist can also evaluate how the foot and ankle work together while walking. This can help identify problems that could affect recovery or increase stress on the ankle. More serious sprains require closer monitoring because the ankle can remain weak or unstable after the initial injury. 

Some ankle sprains cause significant swelling, severe pain, or difficulty putting weight on the foot. A podiatrist can determine whether imaging is appropriate when a fracture or another injury is suspected. Severe sprains can sometimes require a brace or other support while the ankle heals. Returning to sports too quickly can place stress on an ankle that has not fully recovered. A podiatrist can help guide the recovery process and determine when the ankle is ready for increased activity. If you have sprained your ankle,  it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions. 

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. 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.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

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 tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A toe fracture, commonly known as a broken toe, affects the bones within the toes. These bones play a key role in maintaining balance and supporting movement during walking and standing. A fracture can occur when the toe experiences a strong impact or repeated stress. This type of injury frequently occurs in both active individuals and those performing everyday tasks. Understanding the definition and causes of a broken toe can help guide appropriate care and prevention.

Symptoms of a toe fracture often develop quickly after the injury. Pain is usually immediate and may worsen with movement or pressure. Swelling and bruising are common, and the toe may feel stiff or difficult to move. In more serious cases, the toe may appear bent or out of position. What it looks like can vary depending on severity, but discoloration and visible swelling are typical indicators. Some individuals may also notice warmth or sensitivity around the injured area, which can signal inflammation.

Several risk factors can increase the likelihood of breaking your toe. These include participation in sports, lack of protective footwear, and walking in environments where hazards are present. Causes often involve direct trauma, such as hitting the toe against furniture or dropping an object on the foot. Repetitive stress from activities like running may also contribute to stress fractures over time. Individuals with reduced bone strength may be more vulnerable to this type of injury. Recognizing these factors can help reduce the chance of future incidents.

Proper evaluation and care are important for ensuring that the toe heals correctly. Rest, protection, and gradual return to activity can support recovery. In some cases, medical treatment may be necessary to address alignment or prevent complications. Paying attention to symptoms and seeking timely care can improve outcomes and restore function. If you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment tips. 

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our doctors from New England Foot & Ankle . Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

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 tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Cuboid syndrome is a foot condition that affects the cuboid bone, which is located on the outer side of the midfoot. This small bone plays an important role in maintaining foot stability and supporting normal walking mechanics. Cuboid syndrome occurs when the bone becomes partially displaced or misaligned, often due to excessive strain or sudden injury. This disruption can interfere with normal joint movement and lead to discomfort in the lateral midfoot. The condition is often seen in athletes and individuals who engage in repetitive weight-bearing activities.

The symptoms of cuboid syndrome typically include pain along the outer midfoot, especially during walking or standing. Patients may also notice swelling, tenderness, and a feeling of weakness in the foot. In some cases, the pain may worsen with push-off movements or side-to-side motion. Difficulty walking is a common concern, as the discomfort can limit mobility and affect balance. These symptoms can resemble other foot injuries, which makes accurate identification important for proper care.

Several causes and risk factors contribute to the development of cuboid syndrome. A common cause is an ankle sprain that places stress on the surrounding structures, leading to cuboid misalignment. Repetitive strain from running, jumping, or prolonged standing can also increase the risk. Wearing poor footwear that lacks proper support may contribute to uneven pressure on the foot. Individuals with high arches or abnormal foot mechanics may be more prone to this condition due to altered weight distribution.

Managing cuboid syndrome involves addressing both the symptoms and the underlying cause. Rest, wearing supportive footwear, and targeted therapies can help reduce pain and improve foot function. Early recognition and appropriate care are essential to prevent ongoing discomfort and mobility issues. Taking steps to protect the midfoot can support long-term foot health. If you have pain in this area of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat cuboid syndrome.  

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with one of our doctors from New England Foot & Ankle . Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

• Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
• Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
• Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

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.

Children's feet change as they grow, and some changes can lead to temporary but painful conditions. One of the most common causes of heel pain in active children is Sever's disease, also called calcaneal apophysitis. Despite its name, it is not an illness or infection. Instead, it develops when the growth area at the back of the heel becomes irritated during periods of rapid growth. This condition is most often seen in children and teenagers who participate in sports that involve running or jumping. Common symptoms include heel pain, tenderness, and discomfort during physical activity. Some children may also limp or avoid putting full weight on the affected foot. Because heel pain can have several causes, a professional evaluation is important to determine the correct diagnosis.

Sever's disease often develops when the heel bone grows faster than the surrounding muscles and tendons can adapt. The tight tissues pull on the growth plate, leading to irritation and inflammation. Children who are physically active or participate in high-impact sports may have a greater risk of developing this condition. Although the problem usually improves once the growth plate matures, ongoing pain can interfere with sports, school activities, and normal walking. A comprehensive podiatry examination helps identify the source of heel pain while ruling out fractures or other foot conditions. Early diagnosis also allows appropriate treatment to begin before symptoms become more limiting.

A podiatrist specializes in diagnosing and treating children's foot conditions, including Sever's disease. Professional care focuses on reducing heel pain, improving foot function, and helping children return to normal activities as safely as possible. Treatment is based on each child's symptoms, activity level, and stage of growth. Regular follow-up visits also allow healing to be monitored while ensuring the condition continues to improve. If your child has persistent heel pain or difficulty participating in everyday activities, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our doctors from New England Foot & Ankle . Our doctors can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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.