Heel pain can stem from various factors, affecting individuals of all ages and activity levels. Primarily localized to the underside or back of the heel, this discomfort can significantly impact mobility and quality of life. The causes of heel pain are multifaceted, with common culprits including plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, heel spurs, and stress fractures. Plantar fasciitis, caused by inflammation of the thick band of tissue that connects the heel to the toes, often arises from overuse, improper footwear, or biomechanical issues. Achilles tendonitis, involving inflammation of the Achilles tendon, commonly results from overuse or sudden increases in activity level. Heel spurs, bony growths on the underside of the heel bone, can develop due to repetitive stress or poor foot mechanics. Stress fractures, small cracks in the heel bone, may occur from overtraining or sudden changes in activity. If you have heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine the cause and offer you appropriate relief and treatment solutions. 

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of New England Foot and Ankle. 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 one of our offices located in Chelmsford and Newburyport, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A broken toe, though seemingly minor, can disrupt daily routines and cause significant discomfort. Typically resulting from trauma or impact, a broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones fracture. Symptoms can include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking. Diagnosis often involves a physical examination and X-rays to determine the severity of the fracture. Treatment varies depending on the extent of the injury but commonly involves rest, elevation, and pain management. In some cases, the toe may need to be immobilized with a splint or buddy taping to a neighboring toe for support. Healing time ranges from a few weeks to several months, depending upon individual healing capabilities and the severity of the fracture. Ignoring a broken toe or failing to seek proper treatment can lead to complications, such as deformity or chronic pain. If you suspect you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat this condition.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from New England Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Chelmsford and Newburyport, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Football, with its fast-paced and dynamic nature, predisposes players to a range of injuries, with ankle injuries being among the most prevalent. These injuries often occur due to sudden changes in direction, collisions with other players, or awkward landings after jumps. One common ankle injury in football is the sprained ankle, which happens when the ligaments supporting the ankle are stretched or torn. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected ankle. Another frequent injury is the ankle fracture, where one or more of the ankle bones break due to impact or excessive force. This injury causes severe pain, swelling, and possibly deformity of the ankle. Additionally, football players may experience ankle tendonitis, an inflammation of the tendons surrounding the ankle joint, resulting in pain and stiffness. Proper warm-up, strengthening exercises, wearing supportive footwear, and adhering to proper tackling and landing techniques can help reduce the risk of these common ankle injuries in football. Ankle injuries can be painful, and disrupt completing daily activities. If you have endured this condition, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat ankle injuries.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of New England Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Chelmsford and Newburyport, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.