Chronic ankle instability causes the ankle to repeatedly feel weak, wobbly, or ready to give way. The problem usually affects the outer side of the ankle and can occur while walking, exercising, or simply standing. It frequently begins after one or more ankle sprains. A sprain stretches or tears the ligaments, which are strong bands of tissue that support the joint. When an injury does not heal fully, the ankle can remain loose and poorly controlled. Symptoms include ongoing discomfort, swelling, and tenderness. The ankle may keep turning on uneven ground or while playing sports.

Each new sprain can further weaken or stretch the injured ligaments. This creates a cycle of repeated injury and increasing instability. Damage can also affect balance and the ankle muscles that help control movement. This can limit exercise, work duties, and other daily activities. Without proper care, chronic instability can contribute to cartilage damage and ankle arthritis. A podiatrist will ask about earlier injuries and when the ankle gives way. The examination includes checking swelling, tender areas, and joint movement. The podiatrist may also assess strength and balance. X-rays can reveal bone injuries or arthritis, while other imaging tests can show ligament or cartilage damage.

Treatment depends on the degree of instability, test results, and the patient’s activity level. A podiatrist can provide an ankle brace to support the joint and help prevent another sprain. A guided exercise plan can improve strength, balance, and control. Custom orthotics may improve foot alignment and help the ankle move more steadily. Early evaluation can protect the joint from repeated injuries and support a safer return to activity. If you frequently experience the feeling that your ankle is giving way, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our doctors from New England Foot & Ankle . Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

A bunion is a structural deformity of the foot that affects the joint at the base of the big toe. It develops gradually as the big toe shifts inward toward the second toe, causing the joint to protrude outward. This misalignment places ongoing stress on the surrounding bones, ligaments, and soft tissues, leading to discomfort and visible changes in the shape of the foot. Over time, bunions may worsen, particularly if the underlying causes are not properly addressed.

Common symptoms of bunions include persistent pain at the base of the big toe, along with swelling and inflammation in the affected joint. Many individuals also experience a burning or aching sensation, especially after long periods of standing, walking, or wearing restrictive footwear. The skin over the bunion may become red and irritated due to friction against shoes, which can increase discomfort. As the condition progresses, stiffness may develop in the big toe, limiting its range of motion and making everyday activities more challenging.

The primary cause of bunions is prolonged pressure on the big toe joint that gradually forces it out of alignment. Wearing tight, narrow, or poorly fitting shoes is a major contributing factor, as such footwear compresses the toes and increases friction. High-heeled shoes can further worsen the condition by shifting body weight forward onto the forefoot, adding extra strain. In addition, genetic factors and abnormal foot mechanics, such as flat feet or joint instability, can increase the likelihood of developing bunions.

Risk factors include wearing improper footwear, inherited foot structure, and certain biomechanical issues. Early recognition and intervention can help slow progression and reduce symptoms. Wearing supportive, well-fitted shoes and using custom orthotics may relieve pressure on the joint. If a bunion becomes painful or interferes with daily activities, consulting a podiatrist is recommended for appropriate treatment and long-term management strategies.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our doctors of New England Foot & Ankle . 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 Wakefield, MA, Nashua and Derry, NH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Heel pain can make standing and walking uncomfortable, especially when symptoms continue throughout the day. Pain may begin deep in the foot, directly around the heel bone, or in the connective tissue that supports the bottom of the foot. One frequent cause is plantar fasciitis, which involves inflammation of the strong tissue extending from the heel toward the toes. This type of heel pain is especially common in adults. Being overweight and wearing improper footwear may contribute to the problem. Discomfort is often noticeable right after getting out of bed and may return as more time is spent on the feet.

Plantar fasciitis is not the only possible source of heel pain. Problems involving the Achilles tendon, arthritis, or gout may also cause discomfort around the heel. Other causes include stress fractures or irritation of nearby nerves. Since heel pain can develop from several different problems, identifying the source is important before deciding on treatment. A medical evaluation may include questions about when the pain occurs and whether there has been recent trauma. The physician may also consider frequently worn footwear and typical activity levels to better understand what may be contributing to the symptoms.

A podiatrist can evaluate persistent heel pain and determine whether plantar fasciitis or another foot problem may be responsible. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity of the symptoms. Non-surgical care is often used for plantar fasciitis, while persistent cases may require further evaluation and more specialized treatment. Surgery may be considered when non-surgical treatment does not provide enough improvement. A podiatrist can help determine which treatment options are appropriate and whether additional care is necessary. Heel pain does not have to be accepted as a normal result of aging, injury, or physical activity. If persistent heel pain is making it difficult to stand or walk comfortably, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our doctors of New England Foot & Ankle . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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

Foot blisters are fluid-filled bumps that form when the upper layers of skin become irritated or damaged. Friction is a frequent cause, especially when shoes rub repeatedly against the skin. Blisters can develop on the toes, heels, or other areas exposed to pressure. Burns and cold injuries can also produce blisters. A blood blister can form when the skin is pinched hard enough to damage tiny blood vessels. Depending on the cause, a blister can feel tender or painful and can make standing or walking uncomfortable.

Blisters can also develop because of infections, allergic reactions, or certain medicines. Some viral infections cause groups of blisters, while bacterial infections can produce tender areas that later blister. On the feet, broken blisters require careful evaluation because damaged skin can allow infection to develop. Warning signs include increasing redness, warmth, and swelling. Pus or red streaks spreading from the area can also point to infection. Patients with diabetes or poor circulation should take foot blisters seriously because these health problems can raise the risk of complications and make healing more difficult.

A podiatrist can examine a foot blister, identify possible causes, and check the surrounding skin for infection. This evaluation is especially useful when a blister is very painful, keeps returning, or lasts longer than expected. A podiatrist can also determine whether pressure or friction from shoes is contributing to the problem. Treatment depends on the blister's cause, location, and condition. Care can focus on protecting the affected skin and reducing pressure on weight-bearing areas. A podiatrist can also address an infected blister and recommend ways to reduce repeated friction from shoes. If you have developed foot blisters, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and prevention tips.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our doctors of New England Foot & Ankle . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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