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.

Children and teens are active and still growing, which makes their lower extremities more prone to certain injuries. Growth plates, which are areas of developing bone near the ends of long bones, are weaker than surrounding tissue, and can be injured more easily than adult bone. Common problems include heel pain, ankle sprains, and stress injuries from overuse in sports. Rapid growth can also affect coordination and flexibility, increasing the risk of strain. These injuries may cause limping, pain during activity, or discomfort that lingers after rest. Early evaluation is important to prevent long-term issues with development and movement. A podiatrist can assess how a child walks, identify growth-related concerns, and recommend proper treatment to support healing. They can also guide a safe return to activity. If your child has ongoing foot or ankle pain, it is suggested that you seek care from a podiatrist.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, 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.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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.

Ankle fusion surgery is used to treat severe ankle pain, often caused by advanced osteoarthritis that damages the joint. In this procedure, the ankle bones are joined so the joint no longer moves. This can help to reduce pain by stopping bone-on-bone contact when you move. One of the main benefits of ankle fusion surgery is strong pain relief and improved stability, which can make standing and walking easier. However, there are important drawbacks. For instance, the ankle loses its natural motion, which can affect balance and change walking patterns. In addition, nearby joints may take on more stress, which can lead to additional discomfort. Recovery can take months, as the bones heal and fuse into one solid structure. A podiatrist can assess your symptoms, review X-rays, and determine if this procedure is the right option based on your condition. If you have severe ankle pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for help.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Judson Siegel, DPM of Assabet Family Podiatry. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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.

Flat feet is a condition where the arch of the foot is absent or significantly lowered, causing the entire sole to come into contact with the ground. Flat feet can develop due to genetics, injury, aging, or weakening of the tendons that support the arch. Symptoms include foot pain, fatigue, swelling along the inside of the ankle, and difficulty standing or walking for long periods of time. Risk factors include obesity, repetitive strain, and certain medical conditions that affect connective tissue. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, assess gait, and provide supportive treatments. Among them are custom orthotics, strengthening exercises, and proper footwear guidance. If you have discomfort from flat feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Judson Siegel, DPM from Assabet Family Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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.