Foot wounds can be complex, especially when they do not heal as expected. That is where the concept of the reconstructive ladder comes in. It is a step-by-step approach podiatrists use to manage wounds, starting with the simplest solutions and advancing to more complex techniques, if needed. The goal is to restore both function and appearance. Treatment might begin with basic wound care like dressings and pressure relief. If healing stalls, techniques like skin grafts or flap surgery may be considered. Each rung on the ladder represents a thoughtful decision to ensure the wound heals properly while preserving mobility. Whether the wound is from diabetes, injury, or another condition, early intervention makes a big difference. If you have a foot wound that is not improving, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with one of our podiatrists from New England Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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

Your feet can provide important clues about your overall health. Changes in their appearance, sensation, or function may indicate underlying medical conditions. Cold feet could suggest poor circulation, while persistent swelling might be a sign of heart, kidney, or venous issues. Discoloration, sores that do not heal, or numbness may point to diabetes or nerve damage. Brittle or discolored toenails can indicate fungal infections or nutritional deficiencies. Foot cramps or muscle weakness could be linked to dehydration or vitamin imbalances. Additionally, dry, cracked heels may suggest thyroid problems. If you notice persistent discomfort, swelling, or unusual changes in your feet, it is suggested that you seek a medical evaluation from a podiatrist who can offer you advice and appropriate treatment.

When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly.  If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact one of our podiatrists from New England Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.

Systemic Diseases of the Feet

Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable.  Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.

Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.

Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.

Diabetes of the Feet

Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.

Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet. 

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

Orthotics are often prescribed to support the feet, improve alignment, and relieve pain. However, in some cases, they can cause discomfort, including pain in the medial arch, the inside part of the foot. This can happen if the orthotic is not properly fitted or if it places too much pressure on the arch. Sometimes, the foot needs time to adjust to a new orthotic, and mild soreness is normal in the beginning. However, if the pain continues or worsens, it is important to have the orthotics checked by a podiatrist. An adjustment may be needed to improve comfort and support. Wearing the wrong type of shoes with orthotics can also contribute to arch pain. If you experience continued discomfort related to wearing orthotics, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist who can assess your orthotics and make sure they are working correctly to support your feet without causing pain.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact one of our podiatrists from New England Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

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 but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that 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 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 are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Chelmsford and Newburyport, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Cuboid syndrome occurs when the cuboid bone in the foot becomes misaligned or partially dislocated, leading to pain and discomfort. The cuboid bone is located on the outer side of the foot, near the midfoot region, and plays a vital role in stability and movement. This condition often results from repetitive stress, overuse, or sudden trauma such as an ankle sprain. Poor foot biomechanics, tight calf muscles, or wearing inadequate footwear can also contribute to its development. Symptoms include pain along the outer edge of the foot, difficulty walking, and swelling in the affected area. Some individuals may experience weakness or instability while bearing weight. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you appropriate treatment solutions.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with one of our podiatrists from New England Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

• Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
• Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
• Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

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