Everyday foot problems such as soreness, blisters, bunions, and hammertoes can often be managed with regular care and supportive footwear. Shoes that provide enough room in the toe area help reduce pressure on bunions and allow space for bent toes caused by hammertoes. Soft padding and protective inserts may improve comfort and reduce friction. Keeping feet clean and moisturized helps prevent dry skin and irritation, while proper nail trimming lowers the risk of ingrown nails. Gentle exercises and stretching can improve circulation and maintain flexibility, especially in stiff or tired feet. Ignoring foot discomfort may lead to worsening symptoms or structural changes. If you are dealing with bunions, hammertoes, or any other persistent foot issue, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment plan that helps maintain comfort, mobility, and long-term foot health.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Paula F. Angelini, DPM from Board Certified Foot Care. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Dry, cracked heels, or heel fissures, often worsen during warm weather due to increased activity and environmental exposure. Open-backed shoes like sandals offer little protection or support for the heel, allowing the skin to dry out and split. Warm temperatures and outdoor activities can lead to more time spent walking barefoot or in thin-soled footwear, which places more pressure on the heel. Excessive sweating followed by rapid evaporation also contributes to skin dryness. Prolonged standing or walking on hard surfaces during summer outings adds to the stress placed on the skin of the feet. Swimmers and beachgoers may experience dry skin from continuous water exposure, which strips the skin of natural oils. A podiatrist can help treat dry, cracked heels and reduce the risk of infection or deeper skin damage. If your heels are cracking, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Paula F. Angelini, DPM from Board Certified Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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

Tarsal tunnel syndrome occurs when the posterior tibial nerve becomes compressed inside the tarsal tunnel, a narrow space near the ankle. This can cause tingling, burning, or shooting pain in the foot. What makes it tricky is that these symptoms often mimic other conditions, such as plantar fasciitis, neuropathy, or a pinched nerve in the lower back. The pain may come and go or become more intense with standing or walking. Proper diagnosis is essential because treatment for one condition may not help another. A thorough exam, along with imaging or nerve testing, can help confirm what is causing the pain. If you have ongoing foot pain or strange sensations that have not improved with rest or new shoes, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Paula F. Angelini, DPM of Board Certified Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Attleboro, Foxborough, Southborough, and Sudbury, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.