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Overpronation occurs when the foot rolls excessively inward while walking or running. This is often due to a flexible foot structure and increased side-to-side movement. It can develop from genetics, obesity, arthritis, or nerve issues related to diabetes that affect muscle control and stability. Symptoms include foot pain, heel discomfort, ankle strain, and uneven shoe wear. Risk factors involve flat arches, repetitive impact activities, and prolonged standing, which can place added stress on joints and ligaments. A podiatrist can evaluate gait mechanics and identify underlying causes. Treatment options include custom orthotics, strengthening exercises, and supportive footwear to improve alignment. If you have this condition, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and management solutions.

If you have any concerns about your feet, 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.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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 and ankle needs.

Smoker’s feet is a term used to describe foot problems linked to reduced blood flow caused by smoking. Nicotine narrows blood vessels, which limits circulation to the feet and toes. Signs include coldness, color changes, slow-growing nails, and a tingling or numb feeling. People may notice pain when walking or sores that heal slowly. As blood supply worsens, there is a higher risk of infection, nerve damage, and tissue breakdown. In severe cases, parts of the skin may not receive enough oxygen, leading to serious complications. Smoking can weaken bones, which may increase the risk of fractures and delay healing. A podiatrist can assess circulation, check nerve function, and look for skin changes. Imaging and vascular testing may be used to evaluate blood flow and guide care. If you have symptoms of smoker's feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact the podiatrists of New England Family Foot Care. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
• Pain
• Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

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 office located in Milton, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the body, leading to the formation of sharp crystals within joints. When uric acid levels rise, the body cannot eliminate it effectively, allowing crystals to accumulate and trigger inflammation. This process often affects the big toe, where sudden pain, redness, swelling, and warmth can develop. Symptoms may appear rapidly and become severe, making walking difficult. Risk factors include diet, genetics, certain medical conditions, and reduced kidney function. A podiatrist can diagnose gout, manage flare-ups, and recommend treatments to reduce pain and prevent recurrence. Gout can be painful and may cause difficulty in completing daily activities. If you have symptoms of gout, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this painful condition.

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.

Foot stress fractures are small cracks in the bones of the foot caused by repetitive stress or overuse, rather than a single traumatic event. Common symptoms include localized pain that worsens with activity, swelling, tenderness, and bruising. They often result from high-impact activities, sudden increases in exercise intensity, or improper footwear. Risk factors include osteoporosis, poor nutrition, improper training techniques, and repetitive athletic activity. Prevention can involve adjusting training routines, wearing supportive shoes, and shortening stride length to reduce impact on the bones. A podiatrist can diagnose stress fractures with imaging, formulate a treatment plan, prescribe orthotics, and offer guidance to safely return to activity. If you have symptoms of a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can confirm the problem and offer appropriate treatment solutions.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, 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.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

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