Items filtered by date: May 2024

Cuboid syndrome is a condition where the cuboid bone, located on the outer side of the midfoot, becomes partially dislocated or misaligned. This often occurs due to injury or repetitive strain. Athletes are more likely to get cuboid syndrome than other groups because their activities, such as running or jumping, put significant stress on the foot's complex structures. This is especially true for those in sports requiring sudden changes of direction or explosive movements. Symptoms of cuboid syndrome may include intense lateral foot pain, redness, and swelling. A podiatrist, or foot doctor, can treat cuboid syndrome through manual manipulation to realign the bone, along with rest, compression, and elevation to reduce inflammation. Additionally, the use of taping techniques and custom orthotics may help stabilize the cuboid bone and prevent recurrence, allowing athletes to return to their activities with reduced risk of further injury. If you suspect cuboid syndrome, it is suggested you make an appointment with a podiatrist as soon as possible. 

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with Judson Siegel, DPM from Assabet Family Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

• Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
• Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
• Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

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.

Ankle osteoarthritis typically arises after an ankle injury, causing persistent pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced flexibility. Treatment options of ankle osteoarthritis aim to alleviate symptoms and improve joint function, with a focus on enhancing range of motion and strengthening supportive muscles. Low-impact exercises like swimming and biking also help to reduce stress on the joint. Weight management plays an important role, and even a modest weight loss offers significant pain relief. Supportive footwear and custom orthotics can provide stability and cushioning, while easing discomfort. Medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and NSAIDs, may offer temporary relief, though long-term use requires caution. Surgery, such as joint stabilization or ankle replacement, remains a last resort, especially for younger patients. Seeking timely medical intervention and adopting a comprehensive treatment approach tailored to individual needs is vital. If you are suffering from ankle osteoarthritis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options. 

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 Plainville, Marlborough, and Somerset, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Choosing the right running shoes is vital for optimizing performance and preventing foot injuries from different types of running. For long-distance running, prioritizing cushioning and support is key to absorbing impact and maintaining comfort over extended periods. Look for shoes with ample cushioning in the midsole and a supportive heel counter to minimize fatigue and strain. For trail running, opt for trail running shoes with durable outsoles and enhanced traction to navigate rugged terrain confidently. These shoes often feature protective elements like rock plates to shield your feet from uneven surfaces and debris. For speedwork and races, lightweight and responsive running shoes are ideal to maximize agility and propulsion. Seek out styles with minimal cushioning and a responsive midsole for a more efficient stride. By matching your footwear to the specific demands of your run, you can enhance your performance and enjoyment while minimizing the risk of discomfort or injury. If you have endured a foot injury from running, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat foot pain, and guide you toward choosing the correct running shoes.

If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, 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.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.

• Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
• Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
• Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.

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 and ankle needs.

Diabetic foot ulcers pose a serious risk to those with diabetes, often flying under the radar until they become severe. The condition arises due to poor blood circulation and nerve damage, making it less likely for individuals to notice when their feet are injured. These ulcers typically occur on the soles of the feet or pressure points like the heels and toes, where friction and pressure are high. After a podiatrist removes dead tissue and cleanses the affected area, it is important to keep weight off the foot to prevent further complications and promote healing. Prevention is key, involving daily foot inspections, proper footwear, regular foot hygiene, and blood sugar management. Consulting a podiatrist is essential for diabetic patients to receive specialized care and guidance in preventing and managing foot ulcers. With their expertise, individuals can better safeguard their feet and overall well-being, avoiding the potentially devastating consequences of diabetic foot ulcers. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you add a podiatrist to your healthcare team.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Judson Siegel, DPM from Assabet Family Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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.