Foot assessment is a fundamental tool in classifying foot types and identifying potential problems. By analyzing the position of the foot at rest and during dynamic movement, podiatrists can infer dynamic foot function and identify abnormalities. Radiologic evaluations serve as the gold standard for assessing foot structure and alignment, providing detailed insight into bone structure and joint alignment. Podiatrists assess feet and conduct thorough evaluations, interpret radiographic findings, and develop tailored treatment plans. Through a combination of physical examination, gait analysis, and imaging techniques, podiatrists can identify conditions such as flat feet, high arches, bunions, and stress fractures, among others. If you would like to understand how your foot structure may be causing your foot problems, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with this foot doctor for a consultation.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Greater Boston Foot Care, PLLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Plymouth, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

As individuals age, various changes occur in the feet that can affect mobility and comfort. Reduced flexibility, decreased muscle mass, and thinning fat pads are common occurrences. These changes can lead to issues such as stiffness, difficulty walking, and increased risk of foot injuries. To mitigate these effects, incorporating foot exercises, stretching routines, and maintaining a healthy weight can help preserve foot health and function. Wearing supportive footwear with cushioning and adequate arch support can also alleviate discomfort and reduce the risk of developing foot problems. Consulting a podiatrist is beneficial for personalized foot care as this medically trained foot doctor can provide tailored recommendations and interventions. If you are experiencing foot problems due to aging, and want to preserve the health of your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an assessment and advice on how to best care for your feet.

If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists of Greater Boston Foot Care, PLLC. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.

It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.

Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities. 

Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.

Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Plymouth, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Children's feet undergo significant changes as they grow, making proper shoe selection an important consideration. Typically, infants' feet are soft and pliable, with bones gradually forming over time. They usually start walking between nine and 18 months, signaling the need for wearing supportive shoes to protect their delicate feet. As they grow, their feet require shoes with adequate room for movement and growth, typically needing replacements every few months to accommodate size changes. Parents should watch for signs such as blisters, redness, or complaints of discomfort, indicating that shoes may be too small. Regular check-ups with a podiatrist can help address any developmental concerns, such as flat feet or gait abnormalities, ensuring healthy foot development. If you have an infant, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a consultation on proper foot care and footwear to set the foundation for a lifetime of healthy walking and foot function.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact one of our podiatrists of Greater Boston Foot Care, PLLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Plymouth, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Freiberg's disease is characterized by cartilage degeneration in the lesser metatarsal heads of the feet, notably affecting adolescent females, though it can occur in both genders later in life. The condition primarily involves the second and third metatarsals. While the exact cause remains unclear, vascular problems, genetic predisposition, and altered biomechanics are common causes. Diagnosis by a podiatrist includes clinical evaluation and imaging confirmation. In many cases X-rays show normal bone formation in early stages and flattened, fragmented metatarsal heads as the disease progresses. Treatment focuses on relieving foot pressure and may involve nonoperative measures such as activity modification and custom orthotic support. Surgical interventions are considered for advanced cases. Outcomes for Freiberg’s disease from both nonoperative and operative management are generally favorable, allowing most patients to resume previous activities. To find out what may be causing metatarsal foot pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Greater Boston Foot Care, PLLC. 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 our office located in Plymouth, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.