Middle-toe joint pain can result from various factors, often affecting daily activities and mobility. One common cause is arthritis, which leads to inflammation and stiffness in the joint. This condition can be a result of wear and tear over time or due to an autoimmune disorder. Another cause of this type of pain is a bunion, where a bony bump forms at the base of the big toe, as the result of misalignment of the toes. Trauma or injury, such as a sprain or fracture, can also lead to pain in the middle toe joint. Symptoms of middle toe joint pain include swelling, redness, and tenderness in the affected area. The pain typically worsens with movement, and it may become difficult to walk or wear shoes. In some cases, the joint may become stiff, limiting flexibility. If you have toe pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer viable treatment solutions.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. 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 Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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.

Achilles tendon injuries are common among athletes, particularly those who engage in sports that involve running, jumping, or sudden direction changes. Recovery from such an injury typically begins with rest and elevation to reduce swelling and pain. Stretching and strengthening exercises are designed to gradually restore mobility and prevent further strain. In more severe cases, surgery may be required to repair the tendon. Preventing Achilles tendon injuries involves proper warm-up routines, including stretching and strengthening exercises for the calves and ankles. Wearing appropriate footwear that provides adequate support is also essential. Athletes should gradually increase the intensity of their training to avoid overloading the tendon. If you suspect an Achilles tendon injury for any reason, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer you the correct treatment solutions.

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.

Sesamoiditis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the sesamoid bones, which are small, round bones embedded within tendons. Two of these bones are located in the ball of the foot, typically under the big toe joint. The sesamoid bones act as a support system for tendons, helping with the smooth movement of the toe, while absorbing pressure and stress during walking and running. When these bones become irritated due to overuse, injury, or repetitive pressure, inflammation can occur, leading to pain, swelling, and tenderness. Individuals who engage in high-impact activities like running or ballet are more prone to developing sesamoiditis. Symptoms include pain beneath the big toe, especially during activities that put pressure on the feet. If you have pain under your big toe, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot Health Center of Merrimack Valley. Our doctors will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

• Sudden increase in activity
• Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
• Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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.

Sever's disease is a common cause of heel pain in growing children, particularly affecting those between the ages of eight and 14. It occurs due to inflammation of the growth plate in the heel, known as the calcaneal apophysis. This condition is often triggered by repetitive physical activities such as running, jumping, or sports that put stress on the feet. The primary risk factors include being involved in high-impact sports, having tight Achilles tendons, and being overweight. Children who have flat feet or high arches may also be at higher risk. Symptoms typically include pain and tenderness at the heel, especially during or after physical activity. The pain may improve with rest but can worsen with continued activity. If your active child has heel pain, it is suggested that you promptly contact a podiatrist who can provide a proper diagnosis and relief methods.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from Foot Health Center of Merrimack Valley. Our doctors can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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 injuries.