When foot pain becomes chronic and does not improve with rest or basic care, radiologic evaluation can help uncover the cause. X-rays are often the first step, useful for detecting fractures, arthritis, or structural changes. If soft tissue issues are suspected, such as tendon injuries, nerve problems, or inflammation, an MRI or ultrasound scan may be recommended. CT scans offer detailed images of complex bone structures and are sometimes used for surgical planning. These imaging tools allow podiatrists to see beyond the surface, helping to identify hidden conditions that might not be obvious through physical examination alone. Accurate imaging leads to more effective treatment by targeting the exact source of pain. If you have ongoing foot pain that remains unexplained, it is suggested you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Judson Siegel, DPM from Assabet Family Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Cellulitis is a bacterial skin infection that affects the deeper layers of the skin and underlying tissue. It occurs when bacteria enter through a break in the skin, leading to redness, swelling, and pain. In the case of the toenails, cellulitis can develop from other infections, such as athlete’s foot or an ingrown toenail. Athlete’s foot causes cracks in the skin between the toes, which can allow bacteria to invade, while an ingrown toenail can lead to infection in the surrounding tissue, causing redness, swelling, and pain. Symptoms of cellulitis in the toenails include warmth, redness, swelling, and tenderness in the affected area. The skin may feel tight and painful, and there may be drainage or pus if the infection worsens. If left untreated, cellulitis can spread and cause serious complications. A podiatrist can treat cellulitis by prescribing antibiotics, draining any abscesses, and addressing the underlying cause, such as treating athlete’s foot or correcting an ingrown toenail. If you are dealing with this condition, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for care.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Judson Siegel, DPM of Assabet Family Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

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

Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection that causes discomfort and irritation, typically between the toes. This condition is caused by fungi called dermatophytes, which thrive in warm, moist environments like sweaty shoes and socks. If you have athlete's foot, you may experience intense itching, redness, peeling, and in some cases, blisters or cracks. The feeling can be persistent and frustrating, making it difficult to wear shoes or walk comfortably. There are different types of athlete’s foot. Interdigital athlete's foot affects the space between the toes, while the moccasin type causes dry, scaly patches on the soles and sides of the feet. The infection can easily recur if not treated properly, as the fungi can survive on surfaces like towels, shoes, or floors. Poor hygiene and tight shoes can also contribute. If you are dealing with recurring athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide effective treatments, including prescribed antifungal medications. 

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Judson Siegel, DPM from Assabet Family Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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