Items filtered by date: November 2024

Morton’s neuroma is a painful condition involving the thickening of tissue around a nerve leading to the toes, most commonly affecting the area between the third and fourth toes. It often feels like standing on a pebble or experiencing a burning, tingling pain in the ball of the foot. Causes include repetitive stress or compression, commonly from wearing tight or high-heeled shoes. High-impact activities, flat feet, and bunions also increase the risk of developing Morton’s neuroma. Diagnosis typically involves a physical exam, imaging, and recreating symptoms through pressure on the affected area. Treatments range from footwear modifications, orthotics, and anti-inflammatory medications to more invasive options like corticosteroid injections or, in severe cases, surgery. The outlook is generally positive with proper management, and prevention focuses on wearing supportive, well-fitted shoes and avoiding prolonged foot stress. If you have symptoms of Morton’s neuroma, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can provide a tailored treatment plan for relief.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of DeCaro Total Foot Care Center. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

Toenail fungus, medically known as onychomycosis, is a common infection that affects the nail bed, often starting as a white or yellow spot under the nail. Over time, it can cause nails to thicken, discolor, crumble, or become misshapen, leading to discomfort, and, in some cases, pain. Toenail fungus thrives in warm, moist environments, making athletes, individuals who sweat heavily, and those who wear tight or non-breathable shoes more susceptible. Poor foot hygiene and minor nail injuries also increase risk. Treating toenail fungus can be challenging, as the infection tends to be persistent. For more stubborn infections, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who may prescribe oral antifungal medications or laser therapy to target the fungus.

For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of DeCaro Total Foot Care Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

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

Orthotics can help reduce plantar pressure in children with infantile tibia vara, also known as Blount's disease. This condition affects the growth of the bones in the lower legs, causing the legs to bow outward. It can lead to uneven pressure on the feet when walking, which may cause discomfort and difficulty in moving around. Custom orthotics are designed to provide extra support and cushion for the feet. In children with Blount's disease, orthotics help distribute body weight more evenly, reducing the pressure on certain parts of the foot. This can improve walking patterns and relieve pain caused by the uneven pressure. By supporting the feet and correcting alignment, orthotics play an important role in managing plantar pressure in children with Blount's disease. They help make walking more comfortable and prevent further complications as the child grows. If your child is experiencing pain and difficulty with mobility, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment, which may involve custom orthotics.

If you’re experiencing foot discomfort, have a history of foot and ankle injuries, or are interested in exploring Custom orthotics, don’t hesitate to contact one of our podiatrists at DeCaro Total Foot Care Center. Our doctors is dedicated to offering the care required to help you remain pain-free and stay on your feet. 

What are Custom Orthotics?

Custom orthotics refer to custom inserts designed for placement in different shoe types, including athletic and formal footwear, with the purpose of alleviating a spectrum of foot-related problems such as flat feet, heel pain, and overall foot discomfort. These inserts are instrumental in providing relief and comfort for a diverse range of foot conditions, including heel pain, and can also act as a proactive approach to injury prevention. 

Medical Grade Shoe Inserts: 

A diverse array of shoe inserts is available for addressing foot pain, heel discomfort, and minor issues. For instance, you can place arch supports in your shoes to rectify overarched or flat feet, and gel and cushioned insoles are frequently chosen for the comfort and relief they provide from foot and heel pain by reducing pressure. 

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

When evaluating an ankle, podiatrists use a thorough, multi-step process to diagnose issues accurately. The assessment often begins with a discussion of symptoms, including pain location, duration, and any history of injury. A physical examination follows, where the podiatrist checks for swelling, bruising, tenderness, and range of motion. Specific tests, such as the anterior drawer test, can help assess ligament stability, particularly in cases of suspected sprains by gently pulling the foot forward while stabilizing the lower leg. In many cases, podiatrists may order imaging studies like X-rays, ultrasounds, or MRI scans to obtain a detailed view of bones, ligaments, and soft tissues. These images help identify fractures, ligament tears, or signs of arthritis. Gait analysis is sometimes performed to evaluate how the patient’s foot and ankle move when walking. Based on findings, the podiatrist can develop a tailored treatment plan, ranging from rest and targeted exercises to more advanced options if necessary. If you have sustained an ankle injury it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Foot and ankle trauma is common among athletes and the elderly. If you have concerns that you may have experienced trauma to the foot and ankle, consult with one of our podiatrists from DeCaro Total Foot Care Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Foot and ankle trauma cover a range of injuries all over the foot; common injuries include:

• Broken bones
• Muscle strains
• Injuries to the tendons and ligaments
• Stress fractures

Symptoms

Symptoms of foot and ankle injuries vary depending on the injury, but more common ones include:

• Bruising
• Inflammation/ Swelling
• Pain

Diagnosis

To properly diagnose the exact type of injury, podiatrists will conduct a number of different tests. Some of these include sensation and visual tests, X-rays, and MRIs. Medical and family histories will also be taken into account.

Treatment

Once the injury has been diagnosed, the podiatrist can than offer the best treatment options for you. In less severe cases, rest and keeping pressure off the foot may be all that’s necessary. Orthotics, such as a specially made shoes, or immobilization devices, like splints or casts, may be deemed necessary. Finally, if the injury is severe enough, surgery may be necessary.

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

Hammertoe is a deformity where one or more toes become bent at the middle joint, resembling a hammer. This condition often develops due to muscle imbalances, which cause the tendons and ligaments to tighten and pull the toe into an abnormal position. Common causes include wearing ill-fitting shoes, particularly high heels or shoes that crowd the toes, as well as trauma or conditions like arthritis. Symptoms consist of pain, difficulty moving the affected toe, and the development of corns or calluses where the toe rubs against footwear. Over time, the deformity may become rigid, making it harder to correct. Relief for hammertoe may include wearing properly fitted shoes with a roomy toe box and using orthotic devices. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to realign the toe. If you have a hammertoe, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist to prevent worsening of the affliction and provide effective treatment options.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of DeCaro Total Foot Care Center. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

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