A bunion is a foot condition where the big toe gradually shifts inward while the joint at its base becomes enlarged and prominent. It often appears as a visible bump on the side of the foot, which may become red, swollen, and painful over time. The condition develops slowly due to pressure and imbalance in the foot structure, often influenced by genetics, wearing improper footwear, or abnormal walking patterns. Symptoms can include aching pain, stiffness, and difficulty wearing certain shoes comfortably. Risk factors include wearing tight or narrow shoes, family history of bunions, flat feet, and prolonged standing. As the condition progresses, the deformity may become more noticeable and discomfort may increase. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity, monitor progression, and offer treatment options to reduce pain and improve alignment. If you have developed a bunion, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and management solutions. It is strongly suggested that if you have a bunion, you visit a podiatrist.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Judson Siegel, DPM of Assabet Family Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Podiatrists often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your provider.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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

Ongoing foot or ankle pain can make walking, exercise, and even standing through a normal day uncomfortable. Several common conditions can be responsible, including nerve irritation between the toes, inflammation of the thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot, or strain involving the tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel. Although the pain may feel similar at first, each condition has different causes and treatment approaches. A podiatrist can determine the source of discomfort through an exam, and recommend a care plan based on the diagnosis. Treatment may include custom shoe inserts, guided stretching, and temporary activity changes, in addition to targeted exercise therapy, or injections to reduce irritation. Early treatment may help prevent worsening symptoms and improve mobility before pain becomes more limiting. If you have consistent foot or ankle pain that interferes with daily movement, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate care.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Judson Siegel, DPM from Assabet Family Podiatry. Our doctor 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 offices located in Marlborough and Plainville, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Psoriatic arthritis is a long-term inflammatory condition that can affect the joints in the feet and ankles. It is related to psoriasis, a skin condition, and occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy joint tissue. In the feet, it can cause noticeable swelling in the toes and ankles along with stiffness and pain. Many people also experience discomfort in the bottom of the feet, especially when walking or standing for long periods. Symptoms may come and go but often become more persistent, if not treated. The condition can lead to joint damage and changes in foot structure. A podiatrist can evaluate joint health, reduce inflammation through treatment plans, and help preserve comfort and mobility. If you have consistent swelling or foot pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose the problem and offer effective relief and management solutions.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Judson Siegel, DPM from Assabet Family Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Marlborough and Plainville, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Clubfoot is a congenital condition in which a baby’s foot is twisted inward and downward, affecting alignment and movement. The exact cause is not always clear, but it is often linked to genetic factors and differences in muscle and tendon development. Symptoms include a visibly turned foot, stiffness, and limited range of motion. Early treatment is important for healthy development. The Ponseti method uses gentle stretching and casting to gradually correct the position, while the French method involves daily stretching and taping. A podiatrist can help guide treatment, monitor progress, and support proper foot function. If your child was born with clubfoot, it is strongly suggested that you include a podiatrist on your health-care team to ensure the best outcome for healthy foot development.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Judson Siegel, DPM of Assabet Family Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.

What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?

A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.

What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?

Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:

• Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
• Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
• Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
• Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
• Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
• Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Treatment and Prevention

While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.

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

Diagnosing a diabetic foot ulcer begins with a careful exam of the foot. A podiatrist checks the size, depth, and signs of infection, and looks for problems with blood flow and nerve function. Simple tests include feeling pulses, testing sensation, and observing how you walk. X-rays or other imaging scans can help show deeper damage or bone infection. Treatment focuses on removing damaged tissue, controlling infection, and reducing pressure on the area. Special footwear or a protective cast may be used to off-load pressure and support healing. A podiatrist also monitors progress and may order antibiotics or further procedures as needed. Regular visits are important to track healing and prevent serious complications. Early care can improve healing time and lower the risk of infection. If you have symptoms of a diabetes-related foot ulcer, it is suggested that you  are under the care of a podiatrist who can provide treatment, and help you to manage this serious condition. 

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Judson Siegel, DPM from Assabet Family Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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