Items filtered by date: October 2025

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, most often affecting the big toe. Common causes include improper nail trimming, wearing tight footwear, injury, or genetic factors. Symptoms may begin with mild tenderness and progress to redness, swelling, pain, and sometimes infection with pus or drainage. The toe may feel warm and sore to the touch, making walking or wearing shoes uncomfortable. Infections can worsen without treatment, especially for individuals with diabetes or poor circulation. A podiatrist can diagnose an ingrown toenail through a simple exam and determine the best course of treatment. Conservative care may involve lifting the nail edge, or prescribing antibiotics if infection is present. In more severe or recurring cases, a minor in-office procedure can remove part or all of the affected nail. It is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist if you experience ongoing pain, swelling, or signs of infection related to your toenail.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of The Foot Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

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

Bunions, also called hallux valgus, can sometimes cause pain and changes in the way the foot functions. When a bunion becomes severe, surgery may be the most effective treatment to restore comfort and mobility. The aim of bunion surgery is to realign the bones of the big toe, reduce pain, improve stability, and lower the risk of further complications, such as hammer toes or arthritis. Surgery may involve repositioning the metatarsal and toe bones, adjusting tendons and ligaments, and fixing the corrected bones in place with screws or plates. In some cases, minimally invasive procedures may be considered, while more advanced bunions may require a more extensive correction. Recovery often involves a period of limited activity while the bones heal. A podiatrist can determine the most suitable surgical option and guide you through the healing process. If you have a painful bunion, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact one of our podiatrists of The Foot Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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

Heel pain is a frequent concern, and one common cause is Achilles tendonitis. This condition is the inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. Causes may include overuse, sudden increases in physical activity, or repetitive strain from sports. Risk factors include tight calf muscles, flat feet, or wearing shoes that lack adequate support. Symptoms often include stiffness, swelling, and pain that worsens with movement. A podiatrist can diagnose the Achilles tendonitis, provide treatment such as targeted stretching exercises or orthotics, and help prevent further injury. If you are struggling with heel pain or suspect you have Achilles tendonitis, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment solutions.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of The Foot Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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

Falls are a major concern for older adults, and the lower limbs are often the most affected areas when they occur. Injuries may include ankle sprains, hip fractures, and damage to the knees or feet, all of which can greatly limit independence. Weak muscles, poor balance, and unstable footwear increase the risk of falling, as do chronic conditions such as arthritis or neuropathy. Preventive strategies focus on building strength, improving balance, and creating a safe environment at home. Wearing supportive shoes with nonslip soles, the removal of loose rugs, and adequate lighting can make daily movement safer. Stretching and strengthening the calves, ankles, and thighs help maintain stability, while regular checkups ensure that foot or joint problems are addressed early. If you have sustained a foot or ankle injury from falling, or are concerned about your risk of falling and its impact on your lower limbs, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for evaluation and preventive care.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from The Foot Specialists. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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