Items filtered by date: January 2025
Shower Falls Prevention Tips

Preventing falls in the shower is essential to protect your feet and ankles from injury. Start by ensuring the shower floor is slip-resistant. Use non-slip mats or adhesive strips to improve traction. Installing grab bars inside and outside the shower provides extra stability, especially when entering or exiting. A sturdy shower chair can be helpful for those with balance concerns or limited mobility. Use a handheld showerhead to reduce movement and maintain control while washing. Keep soap and toiletries within easy reach to avoid overextending or bending awkwardly. Good lighting in the bathroom also helps prevent missteps. Regularly inspect the shower area for hazards, such as loose tiles or leaking water. Wearing shower-safe, non-slip footwear adds another layer of safety. If you experience a fall or suspect a foot or ankle injury, it is suggested that you promptly see a podiatrist for evaluation and care.
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 DeCaro Total Foot Care Center. 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 our office located in West Hatfield, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Why Gout Affects the Big Toe First

Gout is a form of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to intense pain and inflammation. The big toe is often the first joint affected by gout due to its cooler temperature compared to other parts of the body. Uric acid tends to crystallize more easily in cooler areas, making the big toe, particularly the joint known as the first metatarsophalangeal joint, a prime target. Additionally, the big toe bears significant weight and stress while walking, which can further exacerbate the condition. When uric acid levels become elevated, the crystals accumulate in the joint, triggering inflammation and severe pain. Although gout can affect other joints over time, the big toe remains the most common initial site of attack. If you have gout, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat this painful condition.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from DeCaro Total Foot Care Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.
People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.
Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.
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 and ankle needs.
Why Live with Pain and Numbness in Your Feet?
Custom Orthotics For Outdoor Activity

Embrace the great outdoors with confidence and comfort! Whether you're hiking, jogging, or exploring nature, Custom Orthotics are your perfect companion. Tailored to your foot's unique needs, they provide stability on uneven terrains and cushioning for those longer adventures. Don't let foot discomfort limit your outdoor experiences. With Custom Orthotics, every step is supported and secure. Call today to schedule an appointment.
Understanding Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a condition where one or more toes become bent at the middle joint, resembling a hammer-like shape. It typically affects the second, third, or fourth toes. The condition develops when the muscles and tendons in the toe become imbalanced, often due to wearing tight, ill-fitting shoes, genetics, or certain foot abnormalities. The primary symptoms of hammertoe include pain or discomfort, especially when walking or wearing shoes, along with visible deformity in the toe. Calluses or corns may also develop due to abnormal pressure points. Treatment for hammertoe depends on its severity. Early stages may be managed with non-surgical options like switching to proper footwear, using toe pads, or performing stretching and strengthening exercises. In more severe cases, a podiatrist may recommend surgery to correct the deformity. This type of doctor can provide a thorough evaluation and offer a tailored treatment plan to relieve pain and prevent further deformity. If you have this condition, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.
Hammertoe
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from DeCaro Total Foot Care Center. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.
Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.
Symptoms
- Pain in the affected toes
- Development of corns or calluses due to friction
- Inflammation
- Redness
- Contracture of the toes
Causes
Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible
Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur
Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe
Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe
Treatment
Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it
Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used
Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option
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.
Foot Orthotics May Provide Relief for Lower Limb Conditions

Foot orthotics are specially designed shoe inserts that can help people suffering from lower limb conditions. Such ailments include flat feet, plantar fasciitis, and shin splints that cause pain, discomfort, and limited mobility. Foot orthotics work by improving foot alignment, which helps to redistribute pressure across the foot more evenly. This reduces the strain on muscles, tendons, and joints in the lower limbs, alleviating pain and promoting better function. For those with abnormal gait patterns, orthotics can help correct these issues by improving posture and overall movement. Custom-made orthotics are especially beneficial as they are tailored to the unique shape of each individual’s feet, offering the most precise support. Whether you have chronic pain or are recovering from an injury, foot orthotics can be a valuable tool for managing and improving lower limb conditions. If you have any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if orthotics are right for you.
If you are experiencing discomfort in your feet and would like to try custom orthotics, contact one of our podiatrists from DeCaro Total Foot Care Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Are Custom Orthotics?
Custom orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain.
Over-the-Counter Inserts
Shoe inserts come in a wide variety and are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.
Prescription Orthotics
If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality, custom inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.
If you're experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibility of using custom orthotics or shoe inserts. A podiatrist can determine which type of custom orthotic or shoe insert is right for you and help you take the first steps toward being pain-free.
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.
What to Expect After Ankle Surgery

Recovering from ankle surgery requires patience and proper care to ensure the best outcome. After the procedure, it is important to follow your podiatrist’s instructions closely to prevent complications and promote healing. In the first few days, rest is vital, and the foot should be elevated to reduce swelling. Ice can also help manage swelling and pain. Depending on the surgery, a cast or boot may be prescribed to immobilize the ankle and support the healing process. Specific stretches and exercises are often recommended once the initial healing phase is over, helping to restore strength, flexibility, and mobility. Full recovery can take several months to a year, depending on the severity of the injury and intricacy of the surgery. Throughout the recovery process, avoiding weight-bearing activities and carefully performing rehabilitation exercises are key to ensuring the ankle heals properly and that normal function is restored. If you have ankle pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can discuss whether ankle surgery is right for you.
Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of DeCaro Total Foot Care Center. 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 our office located in West Hatfield, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.