Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition involving irritation or compression of a nerve between the metatarsal bones, most often located between the third and fourth toes. This compression can lead to thickening of the nerve and surrounding tissue, resulting in a sharp, burning, or shooting pain near the ball of the foot. Tingling, cramping, and numbness in the toes are common symptoms of Morton's neuroma, often triggered or worsened by walking or wearing shoes that put pressure on the forefoot. Diagnosis may involve imaging such as ultrasounds or MRI scans to assess nerve compression. A podiatrist may recommend an orthotic device to redistribute pressure, prescribe medication, or consider injections to reduce inflammation. In more advanced cases, surgery may be required to decompress or remove the affected nerve. If you have extreme pain near the ball of the foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact the foot specialists of Affiliates in Foot Care, P.C.. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

A heel spur is a calcium deposit that causes a bony protrusion on the underside of the heel bone, often linked to plantar fasciitis. It can lead to sharp pain, especially with the first steps after rest. Gentle exercises such as calf stretches, towel stretches, and rolling the foot over a cold bottle can help ease discomfort by loosening the plantar fascia and surrounding muscles. Consistent stretching may improve flexibility and reduce strain on the heel. A podiatrist can provide an accurate diagnosis, recommend targeted treatment, and give you exercises appropriate for your condition. If heel pain is limiting your movement, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for a personalized plan to support healing and long-term relief.

Why Stretching Is Important for Your Feet

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with the foot specialists from Affiliates in Foot Care, P.C.. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first to determine if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

• Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
• Similar to the previous exercise, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
• Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
• Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising to ice and rest the foot. It is advised that you then see a podiatrist for help.

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

Shoes made with low-quality materials or poor construction may seem appealing due to their price, but they can take a toll on your foot health, over time. Without proper support, cushioning, or fit, these shoes may contribute to fatigue, pain, and misalignment in the feet and legs. Flat soles and flimsy arch support can lead to overuse injuries or worsen existing conditions, such as heel pain or hammertoes. Wearing unsupportive footwear regularly may also affect posture and place added strain on the knees, hips, or lower back. Replacing shoes frequently or seeking treatment for chronic foot issues can become more expensive than investing in proper footwear from the start. If you are experiencing foot discomfort that may be related to your shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for expert advice, care, and qualities to look for in good shoes.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with the foot specialists from Affiliates in Foot Care, P.C.. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Fungal toenails, or onychomycosis, are caused by fungi that infect the nail through cracks or cuts in the skin. Warm, moist environments, like sweaty shoes or public shower areas, promote fungal growth. The infection can start in one nail and spread to others, if left untreated. Symptoms include thickened, discolored nails that may appear yellow, brown, or white. The nail may become brittle, crumbly, or distorted in shape. In some cases, it may separate from the nail bed and emit a foul odor. While not always painful, fungal toenails can cause discomfort, especially when wearing shoes. A podiatrist can diagnose fungal toenails through a physical exam and may take a sample for lab testing to confirm the infection. Treatment options include topical or oral antifungal medication, and in severe cases, nail removal. If you are dealing with this condition, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for evaluation and treatment.

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 the foot specialists of Affiliates in Foot Care, P.C.. 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 office located in Woburn, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Heel pain is a common issue that can affect people of all ages. It often develops from overuse, wearing poor footwear, or pressure on the heel, over time. One frequent cause is plantar fasciitis, or irritation of the tissue that supports the arch, which can create sharp pain with the first steps in the morning or after resting. Other possible sources include inflammation of the heel pad, nerve involvement, or structural issues such as high or low arches. Rest, stretching, and supportive shoes may ease discomfort in many cases. However, if the pain persists, worsens, or begins to interfere with walking, it should not be ignored. Left untreated, heel pain can become more difficult to manage. If you are experiencing ongoing discomfort in your heel, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and a care plan designed to restore comfort and function.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact the foot specialists of Affiliates in Foot Care, P.C.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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