Bunions are a progressive foot condition that creates a bony bump at the base of the big toe joint. They are often caused by inherited foot structure, improper footwear, or repeated stress on the foot. A bunion may look swollen, red, or enlarged and can feel achy, stiff, or painful, especially during walking or while wearing tight shoes. Some people notice burning sensations, throbbing, or limited range of motion in the toe. A podiatrist can help from the start by evaluating foot alignment, gait, and joint function, and may use imaging to confirm severity. Treatment options range from footwear guidance and padding to custom orthotics designed to reduce pressure and discomfort. Early care may slow progression and improve daily mobility and overall foot health. If you have a painful bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of The Foot Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Podiatrists often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your provider.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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

Plantar fasciitis is a common source of heel and arch pain that develops when the thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot becomes irritated. It may look normal on the surface, yet the foot can feel stiff, tender, or sharp with pain that is most noticeable during the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest. Symptoms include aching in the heel, tightness through the arch, and discomfort that increases with prolonged standing or activity. Causes may involve overuse, wearing unsupportive footwear, high or low arches, or sudden increases in exercise. A podiatrist can begin by evaluating your foot structure, checking for inflammation, and identifying related biomechanical issues. Once diagnosed, treatment may include stretching programs, footwear guidance, custom orthotics, or targeted interventions to reduce strain on the plantar fascia. Because early attention can ease pain and prevent long-term problems, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists  from The Foot Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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

Sever’s disease, a common cause of heel pain in children, occurs when the growth plate at the back of the heel becomes irritated during development. It most often affects active children and adolescents who participate in running and jumping activities. Risk factors include rapid growth, tight calf muscles, flat feet, high arches, and sports that place repeated stress on the heel. Symptoms include heel pain during activity, limping, tenderness when the heel is squeezed, and stiffness after exercise. A podiatrist can evaluate the feet, recommend activity changes, provide heel support, and guide stretching routines that reduce discomfort. If your active child has heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and offer relief solutions for Sever’s disease.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from The Foot Specialists. 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 our offices located in Waltham and Milford, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.