Items filtered by date: June 2023

Ankle pain can be caused by various things. Arthritis is a common reason people may have ankle pain, and can wreak havoc on completing daily activities. Several types of arthritis can affect the ankle. Studies have shown osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and is considered to be a chronic condition. When it affects the ankle, it is found at the point where the ankle meets the shinbone. Typical symptoms of this type of arthritis can consist of pain and stiffness, and the ankle may be difficult to move. The feet and ankles can also be affected by rheumatoid arthritis, which can happen when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the ankle joints. Juvenile arthritis can develop in people who are under the age of 16, who may notice their feet and ankles are painful and swollen. If you have ankle pain, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can determine if arthritis is the cause and offer effective treatment methods.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Associates of Southern NH. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

Heel pain is the main symptom when a heel spur develops. It is defined as a bony growth that forms on the bottom of the heel and can measure up to an inch in length. This calcium deposit generally begins in the front of the heel and may spread to other areas of the foot if medical attention is not received. Some of the symptoms that are associated with heel spurs can include inflammation of the heel and ankle, and there is often pain while walking or running. Athletes and runners put pressure on the heel pads, possibly causing them to gradually wear down. A heel spur can be created from this, and activity may have to be temporarily stopped. People who are obese may be prone to developing heel spurs, which is a result of the added weight the body carries. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can diagnose a heel spur, and guide you toward correct treatment methods.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Associates of Southern NH. Our doctors will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Derry, NH . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Flip-flops are a simple shoe to wear and can be constructed with materials that range from neon foam to expensive leather. Despite their simplicity and array of various colors, research has shown they may not be a good choice of shoe to wear every day. This can be a result of having little or no support in the heel and arch area. Additionally, the toes may become cramped as they try to keep the shoe on the foot. It is beneficial for people who enjoy wearing flip-flops to limit the types of environments that are worn in. Ideal places to wear these types of shoes include the beach, swimming pools, and public showers. They are helpful in preventing conditions such as an athlete's foot from developing. It is recommended to avoid wearing them while driving, participating in sporting events, and walking long distances. If you would like more information about the pros and cons of wearing flip-flops, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist. 

Flip-flops can cause a lot of problems for your feet. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Associates of Southern NH. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

Flip-flops have managed to become a summer essential for a lot of people. While the shoes may be stylish and easy to slip on and off, they can be dangerous to those who wear them too often. These shoes might protect you from fungal infections such as athlete’s foot, but they can also give you foot pain and sprained ankles if you trip while wearing them.

When Are They Okay to Wear?

Flip-flops should only be worn for very short periods of time. They can help protect your feet in places that are crawling with fungi, such as gym locker rooms. Athlete’s foot and plantar warts are two common fungi that flip-flops may help protect your feet against.

Why Are They Bad for My Feet?

These shoes do not offer any arch support, so they are not ideal for everyday use. They also do not provide shock absorption or heel cushioning which can be problematic for your feet. Additionally, you may suffer from glass cuts, puncture wounds, and stubbed toes since they offer little protection for your feet.

More Reasons Why They Are Bad for Your Feet

• They Slow You Down
• May Cause Blisters and Calluses
• Expose Your Feet to Bacteria

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

Athlete’s foot is a pesky kind of foot condition in which the skin between the toes becomes irritated and flaky due to a fungal infection. Interestingly, athlete's foot is contagious because the fungal infection can spread from one person to another. There is a very particular way in which an athlete’s foot infection spreads between people. Namely, when an individual with athlete’s foot walks barefoot on a surface, they leave behind fungal spores. These spores can attach to many things such as shoes, clothes, furniture, and more. When another person comes into contact with these spores, they can also contract the fungal infection. If you have athlete's foot or are looking to protect yourself from developing it, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today for treatment.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Associates of Southern NH.  Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Derry, NH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.