June 2026

A broken foot is a fracture that occurs when one or more bones in the foot crack or break due to excessive force, trauma, or repetitive stress. The foot contains a complex structure of bones that support movement and balance, making it susceptible to injury during high-impact activities or accidents. In contrast, a sprained foot involves damage to the ligaments, which are the soft tissues that connect bones. While both injuries may present with similar discomfort, the underlying damage is different, which affects treatment and recovery expectations.

Symptoms of a broken foot often include sharp and immediate pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. Some individuals may experience a visible deformity or hear a snapping sound at the time of injury. Pain usually worsens with movement and does not improve with rest. A sprained foot may also cause swelling and discomfort, but it may allow some level of movement and weight bearing. Tenderness and instability may be present, but the structural integrity of the bone remains intact. Distinguishing between these conditions is important for proper care.

Risk factors for a broken foot include participation in high-impact sports, sudden trauma such as falls, and wearing footwear that does not protect the foot. Environmental hazards like uneven ground or slippery surfaces can also increase risk. Individuals with reduced bone strength or a history of stress injuries may be more vulnerable. Recovery time for a broken foot varies based on severity, but most fractures require several weeks of immobilization followed by gradual rehabilitation. In comparison, a sprain may heal more quickly depending on the extent of ligament damage.

It is important to understand that an accurate diagnosis is essential when dealing with foot injuries. Misidentifying a fracture as a sprain can delay healing and lead to complications. Prompt evaluation helps ensure proper treatment and recovery. If you think you may have broken your foot or have persistent pain after an injury, it is strongly suggested you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, 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.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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.

Falls outside the home are a common concern, especially in busy public settings like stores, crowded venues, parks, playgrounds, and public bathrooms. These environments may have uneven surfaces, slippery floors, sudden obstacles, and distractions that can increase the risk of losing balance. A fall may appear as a sudden slip, trip, or misstep, often leading to pain, swelling, or injury in the feet and ankles. This can happen when footing is unstable, when attention is divided, or when underlying foot conditions affect stability. People with weak arches, poor alignment, or reduced sensation may be more vulnerable.

After a fall, people may notice lingering discomfort or a fear of walking in similar spaces. This type of fear can limit activity and reduce confidence in daily movement. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, assess gait, and identify risk factors that contribute to instability. This foot doctor may perform balance testing and check joint motion to better understand how the feet interact with the ground. Based on findings, they can recommend supportive devices, prescribe custom orthotics, or suggest treatments that improve alignment and stability.

In some cases, targeted therapy or bracing may be advised to strengthen support and prevent repeat injuries. Early evaluation allows problems to be addressed before they worsen or lead to more serious complications. With proper care, patients can regain confidence and move more safely through busy public environments. Follow-up visits can track progress and guide adjustments in treatment. Education about proper footwear and awareness of surroundings may also reduce risk. Attention to walking surfaces, lighting conditions, and pace of movement can further support safety in active environments. If you have fallen and have injured your foot or ankle, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for additional falls prevention tips, both in and outside of the home.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Foot Health Center of Merrimack Valley. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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 is an inflammatory condition that can affect the small joints of the feet, often causing pain, swelling, warmth, and morning stiffness that lasts longer than expected. Many people first notice discomfort in the front of the feet or toes, making walking uncomfortable, especially after rest. As the condition progresses, joint damage may lead to shifting toe position, reduced stability, and pressure points that make wearing shoes difficult. Because this condition affects the immune system, symptoms may involve both feet in a similar pattern rather than appearing from a single injury. A podiatrist can evaluate joint changes, walking mechanics, and areas of abnormal pressure while helping to manage discomfort and protect foot function. Early recognition matters because untreated inflammation can lead to lasting structural changes. If you are experiencing persistent foot swelling, stiffness, or unexplained joint pain, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist for an evaluation.

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 care needs.

Pitting edema is a type of swelling in the ankles or feet where pressing on the skin leaves a temporary indentation. This happens when extra fluid collects in the tissues. It may be linked to circulation problems, vein conditions, heart or kidney concerns, certain medications, or other medical issues. Some people notice tight shoes or swelling that worsens as the day goes on. Diagnosis starts with a physical examination, where a provider checks the amount of swelling and how long the indentation remains after pressure is applied. A podiatrist may also review medical history, symptoms, circulation, and skin changes, and may recommend additional testing when needed to help identify the cause. Because swelling can signal an underlying health concern, proper evaluation matters. If you have ongoing swelling in your feet or ankles, especially with discomfort or skin changes, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist for appropriate treatment solutions.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. 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.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

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.

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.