Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet, especially between the toes. It often appears as red, itchy, or peeling skin that may crack or burn. In some cases, the skin can become dry and scaly or develop small blisters. This condition develops when fungi grow in warm, moist environments, such as sweaty shoes or locker rooms. Risk factors include wearing tight footwear, having damp feet for long periods, and using shared surfaces without protection. Symptoms may worsen if the infection spreads or is left untreated. A podiatrist can confirm the diagnosis, provide targeted treatment, and help prevent the infection from returning. If your feet are itchy or if you notice skin changes between the toes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

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 Health Center of Merrimack Valley.  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 one of our offices located in North Andover, and Tewksbury, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

An ingrown toenail develops when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin instead of over it. This condition most often affects the big toe, and can cause redness, swelling, tenderness, and pain along the nail border. The area may feel sore while  walking, wearing shoes, or applying pressure to the toe. In some cases, the skin may become infected, leading to drainage, warmth, or increased swelling. Common causes include trimming the nails too short, wearing tight footwear, injury to the toe, or naturally curved nails. Repeated pressure from sports or daily activities may also contribute to the problem. A podiatrist can examine the toe, determine the severity of the condition, and recommend appropriate treatment. Care may include trimming or removing the ingrown portion of the nail, treating infection, recommending proper footwear, or performing a minor procedure to help prevent recurrence. If you have an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot Health Center of Merrimack Valley. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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

Achilles tendon injuries affect the strong band of tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel. This tendon plays a key role in walking and running. These injuries commonly appear in two forms. Tendinitis involves inflammation caused by overuse, while tendinosis refers to degeneration of the tendon. Risk factors include sudden increases in activity, tight calf muscles, improper footwear, and aging. Symptoms include pain, stiffness, swelling, and discomfort during movement, especially after rest. Without care, symptoms can worsen and limit daily activities. A podiatrist can evaluate the affected area, recommend stretching, supportive footwear, and provide targeted treatments to promote healing. If you have any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat Achilles tendon injuries.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot Health Center of Merrimack Valley. 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 one of our offices located in North Andover, and Tewksbury, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Charcot foot is a serious condition that can affect people with diabetes, most often those who have lost feeling in their feet. It develops when the bones become weak and begin to break under normal pressure, sometimes without much pain. The foot may appear swollen, warm, or slightly misshapen as the condition progresses. Although this problem is not frequently seen, it is important because delayed care can lead to lasting deformity and trouble walking. It is sometimes mistaken for a minor injury, which can slow proper treatment. Early detection makes a big difference in protecting the structure of the foot. A podiatrist can recognize early changes, use imaging to confirm the issue, and guide treatment to prevent further damage. If you have diabetes and notice swelling, warmth, or shape changes in your foot, it is suggested that you seek care from a podiatrist.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot Health Center of Merrimack Valley. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

• Freiberg’s disease
• Kohler’s disease
• Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

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

Osteoarthritis is a joint condition that affects the feet and ankles when the smooth cartilage that covers the ends of bones begins to wear down. This cartilage normally allows bones to glide easily, but when it breaks down, the bones rub together, leading to pain, swelling, and stiffness. Many people notice symptoms of osteoarthritis in the big toe joint or ankle, which can make walking and standing extremely painful. Joints may feel stiff after rest, and some people hear a grinding or clicking sound during movement. The joint can change shape, and small bony growths can form, which may limit motion. Risk factors include aging, prior injuries, and added stress on the joints. A podiatrist can evaluate the affected joints, use imaging for diagnosis, and provide treatment. Options include custom orthotics, bracing, and pain relief medication. Surgery may be recommended in severe cases. If you have symptoms of osteoarthritis in your feet or ankles, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for help.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot Health Center of Merrimack Valley. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

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

An aneurysmal bone cyst is a noncancerous growth that contains blood and can cause the bone to expand. It typically develops in young adults, most often affecting women. While it commonly appears in the long bones of the arms and legs, it can occasionally occur in less typical areas like the bones of the foot. It is not always clear why it develops, but it is thought to result from abnormal blood flow within the bone that leads to swelling and expansion. Because it can weaken the bone, it is important for podiatrists to keep this condition in mind when assessing unusual bone lesions. Early recognition helps guide proper imaging, diagnosis, and treatment planning. If you are experiencing persistent foot pain, swelling, or a noticeable lump, it is important to have it evaluated. It is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a thorough examination and appropriate care.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Foot Health Center of Merrimack Valley. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in North Andover, and Tewksbury, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Standing for long hours at work can place constant pressure on the feet and lead to pain and structural strain. Repeated stress on the feet can irritate the plantar fascia, a strong band of tissue along the bottom of the foot, and lead to heel pain. It can also overload the forefoot, causing burning sensations, calluses, and joint discomfort. Muscles and tendons may become tight, while poor circulation can result in swelling and fatigue. This stress also may change how weight is distributed across the foot, increasing the risk of arch problems and toe deformities. A podiatrist can evaluate foot alignment, identify pressure points, and provide custom orthotics, shoe inserts designed to improve support and reduce strain. In some cases, bracing or other medical treatment may be prescribed to protect the feet during long work shifts. If you have foot problems related to standing all day at work, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot Health Center of Merrimack Valley. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in North Andover, and Tewksbury, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ingrown toenails develop when the edge of a nail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to pain, swelling, and possible infection. An ingrown toenail usually affects the big toe, which can become infected if ignored. Causes include cutting nails too short, rounding the corners, or wearing tight shoes that crowd the toes. Excess moisture from sweaty feet can soften the skin, making it easier for the nail to penetrate. Some people inherit curved toenails that increase risk, while conditions like diabetes or poor circulation can slow healing and raise the chance of infection. Signs of ingrown toenails include redness, drainage, or overgrown tissue along the nail edge. A podiatrist can evaluate the toenail, relieve pressure, remove the problem portion of the nail, and address infection to prevent complications. If you have a painful ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot Health Center of Merrimack Valley. 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

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 one of our offices located in North Andover, and Tewksbury, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.