Pediatric foot alignment deformities encompass a range of conditions affecting the structure and function of children's feet. These deformities can manifest in various forms, including flat feet, toe walking, in-toeing, and out-toeing. While some children may outgrow these issues naturally as they develop, others may require intervention to prevent potential complications. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough physical examination by a podiatrist, assessing gait patterns, foot alignment, and range of motion. In some cases, imaging studies such as X-rays may be utilized to further evaluate the condition. Treatment approaches vary depending on the specific deformity and its severity, ranging from observation and monitoring to orthotic devices, or surgical intervention in more severe cases. Early detection and intervention are essential in addressing pediatric foot alignment deformities, ensuring proper development and function of the feet as children grow and mature. If your child has been born with any type of foot deformity, it is suggested that you have a podiatrist on your healthcare team who can monitor and treat the specific condition.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, 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.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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.

Neuropathy, often silently lurking until later stages of life, can significantly impact foot health. It is a condition characterized by nerve damage, leading to numbness, tingling, and pain in the feet. Causes range from diabetes and infections to injuries and hereditary factors. Neuropathy can manifest in various foot problems, including loss of sensation, burning or shooting pain, and muscle weakness, making simple tasks challenging. Diagnosing neuropathy typically involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, and nerve conduction tests to assess nerve function. Prevention strategies include managing underlying conditions like diabetes, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and avoiding prolonged pressure or trauma to the feet. While there is no outright cure for neuropathy, treatments focus on symptom management and slowing its progression. This may involve medications and lifestyle modifications. If you are experiencing symptoms of neuropathy in your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for a thorough exam and tailored treatment plans.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, 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 for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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.

Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, can manifest in various parts of the body, including the feet, where early detection is vital for effective management and prevention of complications. One common sign of RA in the feet is joint stiffness, particularly in the morning or after periods of inactivity, which can make walking and movement uncomfortable. Swelling and tenderness in the affected joints, often accompanied by warmth and redness, are also indicative of RA. Deformities such as bunions, hammertoes, and claw toes may develop as the condition progresses, altering the foot's structure and causing further discomfort. Additionally, RA can lead to nodules or lumps under the skin, typically around pressure points like the heels or toes. Changes in gait or difficulty in walking due to foot pain and stiffness are further indications of RA involvement. If you are experiencing symptoms of RA that are affecting your feet, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can offer you relief and treatment strategies.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot Health Center of Merrimack Valley. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

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.

Surgery for flat feet, also known as flatfoot reconstruction, presents individuals with both advantages and disadvantages to consider before making a decision. On the positive side, surgery can correct structural abnormalities, realign bones and tendons, and restore the arch of the foot, potentially alleviating pain and improving mobility. For individuals experiencing severe symptoms or those whose quality of life is significantly affected by flat feet, surgery can offer long-term relief and enhanced functionality. However, it is essential to weigh the potential drawbacks. Surgery entails inherent risks, including infection, nerve damage, and prolonged recovery periods. Additionally, the success of the procedure may vary, and there's no guarantee of complete symptom resolution. Furthermore, undergoing surgery requires a commitment to post-operative rehabilitation and lifestyle adjustments, such as avoiding high-impact activities and wearing supportive footwear. If you have flat feet that are causing you discomfort, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you determine if surgery is right for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot Health Center of Merrimack Valley. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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.