Items filtered by date: August 2025

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. It most commonly affects the big toe and can result from improper nail trimming, wearing tight footwear, genetics, or injury. Symptoms include redness, tenderness, and drainage. Risk factors include curved nails, poor foot hygiene, and repetitive pressure on the toes. If left untreated, the condition can worsen and lead to serious complications. A podiatrist can safely remove the ingrown portion of the nail, relieve pain, and provide guidance to prevent recurrence. If you notice signs of an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you promptly schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition, which may include minor surgery. 

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, 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.

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 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 tibial nerve, which runs along the inside of the ankle, becomes compressed. This can cause burning, tingling, numbness, or shooting pain in the foot and ankle. The condition may be linked to injury, swelling, flat feet, or underlying health issues that create pressure on the nerve. Symptoms often worsen with prolonged standing, walking, or physical activity. Wearing supportive footwear, orthotics, and activity modification can help reduce irritation. In some cases, anti-inflammatory treatments are recommended to relieve nerve compression. Ignoring early signs can lead to more persistent discomfort and nerve damage, over time. Protecting foot health through proper support and early intervention can make a significant difference in long-term comfort. If you experience ongoing foot or ankle pain, tingling, or numbness, it is suggested that you seek evaluation and treatment from a podiatrist.

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 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.

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain, occurring when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue connecting your heel to your toes, becomes inflamed or irritated. It often results from overuse, wearing poor footwear, obesity, or tight calf muscles. Symptoms include sharp, stabbing pain in the heel or arch, especially noticeable with the first steps in the morning or after long periods of rest. The affected area may feel tender, swollen, or stiff. A podiatrist can diagnose plantar fasciitis by conducting a thorough examination. Treatments include custom orthotics, stretching exercises, and footwear modifications to reduce stress on the foot. In some cases, advanced treatments like corticosteroid injections may be necessary. With proper care, most people find relief and can return to their daily activities comfortably. If you have plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, 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.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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.