Winter activities challenge the feet and ankles in ways that warm weather sports do not. Skiing, skating, and snowboarding can place sudden force on the lower joints, leading to sprains, tendon irritation, or bruising. Additionally, fractures can occur if a landing or turn goes wrong. Boots that are stiff or overly tight can cause pressure points, while icy surfaces increase the chance of slipping and twisting the ankle. Cold temperatures also make muscles less flexible, which can reduce stability and slow reaction time. When discomfort develops, early care helps prevent a minor issue from turning into something more serious. A podiatrist can assess swelling, tenderness, or difficulty bearing weight, and determine which structures are involved. This foot doctor can also recommend protective footwear or supportive inserts, as well as offer targeted treatment to promote healing. If winter activities leave you with lingering foot or ankle pain, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for effective relief solutions.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, 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.

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
• 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 contact our offices located in Plainville, Marlborough, and Somerset, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Bunion surgery is used to correct a painful bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe and interferes with normal foot alignment. Several types of bunion surgery exist depending on severity and joint condition. An exostectomy involves removing the enlarged bone to reduce pressure and irritation. An osteotomy corrects the deformity by cutting and realigning the bone to restore proper positioning, and arthrodesis, used for more advanced cases, involves fusing the joint to relieve pain and improve stability. Each approach is selected to reduce discomfort and improve function. A podiatrist evaluates foot structure, symptoms, and lifestyle needs to determine the most appropriate surgical or nonsurgical care. If bunion pain is limiting walking or daily activities, it is suggested that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist to explore treatment options and steps toward lasting foot relief.

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 Plainville, Marlborough, and Somerset, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Hagland's deformity is a bony enlargement on the back of the heel that often develops where the Achilles tendon attaches. It is commonly caused by wearing rigid footwear or high heels, repetitive irritation, or inherited foot structure. This condition may look like a noticeable bump on the back of the heel, and is often accompanied by redness or swelling. It can feel sore, stiff, tender, or painful, especially when wearing closed shoes or during walking and exercise. Some people experience aching or burning sensations as the surrounding tissue becomes inflamed. A podiatrist can help from the start by performing a thorough examination, reviewing footwear habits, assessing biomechanics, and using imaging, if needed for confirmation. Treatment may include shoe modifications, padding, stretching programs, and inflammation management to relieve pressure and discomfort. Early care can prevent worsening symptoms and improve daily comfort. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnose and effective treatment solutions.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, 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.

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 feel free to contact our offices located in Plainville, Marlborough, and Somerset, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Diabetic foot ulcers are open sores that develop on the feet of individuals with diabetes, often forming on pressure points such as the heels or toes. These wounds progress through stages, beginning as redness or skin breakdown and advancing to deeper tissue involvement, if not treated. Causes include poor blood sugar control, neuropathy that reduces sensation, blood flow problems that slow healing, and improper shoes that create friction or pressure. Without proper care, ulcers can worsen and lead to serious complications. A podiatrist can help by assessing the wound, removing damaged tissue, improving pressure distribution, and guiding proper foot care to support healing. If you have diabetes and notice any signs of a foot ulcer, it is strongly suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can 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 Plainville, Marlborough, and Somerset, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.