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Friday, 04 October 2024 00:00

Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!

Tuesday, 01 October 2024 00:00

Gout is a form of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to sudden and intense pain. Common symptoms include severe joint pain, typically in the big toe, along with swelling, redness, and warmth in the affected area. The pain often starts at night or early morning and can become excruciating within hours.  A gout flare-up usually lasts between three to 10 days, with the most severe symptoms occurring in the first 24 to 48 hours. It may subside on its own but can return if left untreated. To handle a gout flare-up, rest the affected joint, and it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist for an appointment and examination. This type of doctor can prescribe medications such as colchicine or corticosteroids that can help reduce symptoms.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact the podiatrists from New England Family Foot Care. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

  • Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
  • Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
  • Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
  • Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

  • Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
  • Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
  • Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
  • Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
  • Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
  • Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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

Read more about Everything You Need to Know About Gout
Tuesday, 24 September 2024 00:00

Tibia and fibula fractures are breaks in the two bones of the lower leg. The tibia, or shinbone, is the larger, weight-bearing bone, while the fibula is the thinner bone running alongside it. These fractures commonly occur due to trauma, such as falls, car accidents, or sports injuries. Symptoms include severe pain, swelling, bruising, inability to bear weight, and in some cases, visible deformity.  Complications can include nerve or blood vessel damage, delayed healing, and infection if the fracture is open. Diagnosis typically involves a physical exam and imaging tests like X-rays or CT scans to assess the extent of the injury. Treatment varies depending on the severity, but may include casting or splinting for less severe fractures, while surgery with plates, screws, or rods may be necessary for more complex breaks. If you have sustained an ankle fracture, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist as quickly as possible.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact the podiatrists from New England Family Foot Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

  • Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
  •  Swelling around the area
  •  Bruising of the area
  • Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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

Read more about Broken Ankle Causes, Differences, Symptoms and Treatments
Tuesday, 17 September 2024 00:00

Blisters are a common issue for hikers, typically caused by friction between the skin and footwear, often made worse by moisture. Wearing iIl-fitting shoes, uneven terrain, and prolonged hiking can lead to the formation of painful blisters. To prevent blisters, start by ensuring you wear well-fitting, moisture-wicking socks and shoes that provide proper support. Gradually break in new footwear to avoid excessive friction. Keep your feet dry by changing out wet socks and using foot powder. Pay attention to any signs of discomfort early and address them promptly to prevent blisters from developing. Blisters can be uncomfortable and can interfere with your hiking experience. If you have developed a blister that is not healing or has become infected, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can safely deal with the troublesome blister.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact the podiatrists of New England Family Foot Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

  • Bubble of skin filled with fluid
  • Redness
  • Moderate to severe pain
  • Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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

Read more about Blisters
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