Conditions We Treat
There’s Nothing Below the Knee We Can’t Handle
Do you have foot or ankle pain? You’ve come to the right place! Getting the medical care and attention you need is as easy as calling the Foot & Ankle Institute of New England office nearest you.
The doctors at the Foot & Ankle Institute of New England provide comprehensive expert medical and surgical care for patients of all ages in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. If you have an acute or chronic injury or were injured in the workplace or a car accident, we can help.
The doctors and surgeons at the Foot & Ankle Institute of New England treat an enormous range of foot and ankle conditions, including:
The Achilles tendon is the largest and strongest tendon in the body. It connects the calf muscles to the heel bone and is responsible for pushing off when you walk or run.
There are two main types of Achilles tendon injuries, both of which are typically caused by overuse, improper stretching, or a sudden increase in activity:
- Insertional Achilles Tendonitis – inflammation that occurs where the tendon attaches to the heel bone.
- Noninsertional Achilles Tendonitis – inflammation that occurs further up from the heel.
Symptoms of an Achilles tendon injury include pain and stiffness in the back of the leg, swelling, and difficulty walking. These symptoms are usually more severe in the morning.
Treatment for an Achilles tendon injury depends on the severity. In some cases, surgery, such as an Achilles tendon repair and lengthening procedure, may be necessary. If you have suffered an Achilles tendon injury, it is important to follow the instructions of the doctors at the Foot & Ankle Institute of New England and give yourself time to heal. With proper treatment, most people can make a full recovery and return to their previous level of activity.
Ankle sprains and instability are common problems that can occur after an ankle injury.
Ankle sprains are an acute injury that occur when the ligaments that support the ankle are suddenly stretched or torn. This can happen if you roll your ankle, land on it awkwardly, or twist it in an unnatural way. Sprains can range from mild to severe, depending on the extent of the damage. The most common symptom of a sprain is sudden pain, swelling, and bruising around the affected area.
Ankle instability, on the other hand, is a chronic problem that develops over time and is recurrent. It is the result of the gradual weakening of ligaments, tendons, and other critical connective tissue at the ankle joint. Ankle instability makes it difficult to walk or stand on your ankle without pain or the feeling that the outer side of the ankle may “give way.” Untreated instability can also lead to further injuries, such as recurring ankle sprains or even fractures.
If you have recently injured your ankle, it is important to visit our experts at the Foot & Ankle Institute of New England. We will be able to determine whether you have a sprain or instability and develop an appropriate treatment plan, which may include:
Arthritis is a common condition that can affect any joint in the body, including the foot or ankle.
There are many different types of arthritis, but the most common type is osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease that causes the cartilage in the joints to break down. This can lead to pain, stiffness, and swelling in the affected joint.
If you are suffering from arthritis in the foot or ankle, don't worry – there are many things that can be done to help relieve your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
The first line of treatment is typically conservative, including weight loss (if necessary), exercise, physical therapy, and medications. If conservative treatment does not relieve your symptoms, we may recommend surgery. Surgery for foot or ankle arthritis may involve joint replacement or fusion. Joint replacement involves replacing the damaged joint with an artificial joint. Fusion involves surgically fusing the bones together so they do not move.
Athlete's foot is a common fungal infection of the feet that causes scaling, flaking, and itching. If it spreads to the toenail, it can cause the nail to become thickened and discolored.
The fungus that causes athlete's foot thrives in warm, moist environments. This fungus can often be found in locker rooms, public showers, and swimming pools. The fungus can also be found on contaminated towels, shoes, and socks.
Athlete's foot treatment depends on the severity of the condition. The doctors at the Foot & Ankle Institute of New England can help to determine what treatment is best for you.
Do you have a bump on the inner side of your foot? You may have a bunion. Bunions are caused by an imbalance in the muscles and tendons that control the big toe. This can lead to the big toe moving toward the second toe, and a bony lump forming on the joint at the base of the big toe. That bump is actually the misaligned joint at the base of your big toe.
Bunions can be painful, and they can make it difficult to wear certain types of shoes. If you have a bunion, you may notice that your big toe is red and swollen. You may also have pain when you move your big toe or when you put pressure on the bunion, such as while walking or exercising. There are different treatment options for your bunion, depending on your condition. If your bunion is severe, you may need surgery to correct it. The experts at the Foot & Ankle Institute of New England will choose the best treatment option for you!
Additionally, our foot and ankle surgeons are trained in the latest methods of bunion correction and make it readily available to those who have the qualifying deformities to warrant these procedures. This includes Lapiplasty® of Treace Medical Concepts and Lapifuse® of Wright Medical. These are proprietary methods and equipment that are uniquely designed to correct the complete bunion deformity and thereby reduce the chance of reoccurrence. Additionally, these tri-planar correction systems allow the patient to bear weight early in the recovery process, as well as reduce potential unsightly scarring. Ask one of our doctors if you are a candidate for one of these procedures.
Charcot's joint, also known as neuropathic arthropathy, is a condition that affects the joints – especially in the feet. It is caused by damage to the nerves, which can lead to decreased sensation, muscle weakness, and bone or joint changes in the affected area. The nerve damage at the root of Charcot’s joint can be caused by various factors, including diabetes, spinal cord injuries, and alcoholism.
Charcot's joint can be treated with a combination of therapies, including physical therapy, bracing, and surgery. In some cases, joint fusion may be necessary.
Diabetic foot is a complication of diabetes. It can cause several problems, including infection, ulcers, and can even lead to amputation.
Diabetic foot occurs when there is damage to the nerves or blood vessels in the feet. Nerve damage makes it difficult for people with diabetes to feel pain, so they may not realize that they have an injury. Circulatory problems mean insufficient oxygen and nutrient-rich blood is transported to the feet, making healing difficult. The two issues combined often lead to nonhealing wounds and infections that can easily spread and worsen. The expert staff at the Foot & Ankle Institute of New England will choose the treatment options best suited for your unique condition.
Flatfoot, also known as pes planus, is a condition in which the foot flattens and loses its arch. This causes the entire sole of the foot to come into direct contact with the ground when standing. Without the arch to support the bones in your feet, walking can become painful and difficult. Flatfoot can be caused by several things, including injury, age, or genetics.
If you have flatfoot, we can help. Our experts can recommend the best course of action for your condition. Every patient is unique. You may need physical therapy to stretch and strengthen the muscles in your foot. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the problem.
Your foot is a complex structure made up of many bones. Like any other bone in your body, these bones are breakable. A fracture is a break in a bone that is often caused by trauma. In most cases, fractures result from an accident, fall, or direct blow to the bone. However, they can also occur due to conditions that weaken the bones, such as osteoporosis. The severity of a fracture can vary from a hairline crack to a complete break in the bone. Some commonly occurring foot fractures include:
- Calcaneal Fractures
- Tarsal and Metatarsal Fractures
- Lisfranc Fractures
There are many methods by which foot fractures can be surgically treated, and the type of treatment will depend on the type of fracture and the location of the break. However, generally foot surgery involves your surgeon making an incision over the site of the fracture. The fractured bones will be realigned and secured with either pins, wires, screws, or plates. Following the closure of the incision, your foot will be immobilized, such as in a cast or boot.
After the fracture has been treated, it is important to start physical therapy as soon as possible after healing. Physical therapy can help to improve your range of motion, strength, and function. Recovery times vary depending on the individual and the break, but most people make a full recovery within three to six months.
There are many different types of fungal infections, and they can affect any part of the body.
Athlete's foot is the most common type of fungal infection of the feet. It is caused by a fungus that thrives in warm, moist environments, and causes intense itching, redness, and blistering.
Another common type of foot fungus is called onychomycosis. This infection affects the toenails, and can cause the toenails to become thick, yellow, or brittle.
If you think you may have a fungal infection of the feet, it is important to see the foot specialists at the Foot & Ankle Institute of New England. These infections are often difficult to treat on your own and can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated. With the proper treatment, however, most fungal infections can be cleared up relatively easily.
Hammer toe is a deformity of the second, third, or fourth toes. In this condition, the toe bends at the middle joint, causing it to look like a hammer. People with hammer toe often have pain in their toes and have difficulty wearing shoes. This condition can be caused by several factors, including wearing tight shoes, arthritis, and nerve damage. If you are experiencing these symptoms, it is important to see the experts at the Foot & Ankle Institute of New England to determine the cause and receive treatment. Treatment options for hammer toe include wearing shoes with a wide toe box, padding the toe, and surgery.
High arches – or what is known as a cavus foot deformity – are less common than flatfoot. For some people, having high arches can place abnormal stress on the bones and joints in the feet. This may cause pain, difficulty walking, calluses, and plantar fasciitis. There are several different treatments available if high arches are bothering you, depending on the severity of the problem. Contact the experts at the Foot & Ankle Institute of New England to find out what option is best for you.
Ingrown toenails are a common problem that can affect people of all ages. Ingrown toenails occur when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the fleshy part of the toe. This can cause pain, swelling, and infection. Most often, this is caused by wearing shoes that are too tight.
If the pain is severe or if there are signs of infection (such as redness, swelling, or pus), it is important to visit the Foot & Ankle Institute of New England. We will be able to prescribe antibiotics and pain medication, if necessary. In some cases, surgery may be required to remove the ingrown toenail.
Morton's neuroma is a thickening of the tissue around nerves that lead to the toes. This can cause a shooting or burning pain, tingling, or numbness in the affected area – most often between the third and fourth toes. It may be worse when walking, running, or standing on the affected foot. In some cases, Morton's neuroma can lead to problems with walking or even standing.
It typically develops in response to irritation or injury to the nerve. This can happen from wearing tight shoes, repetitive motions (such as running), or direct trauma to the area.
Treatment for Morton's neuroma depends on the severity of the condition. In some cases, we may recommend injections or surgery.
If you have ever experienced pain and swelling on the outside of your ankle, you may have a peroneal tendon tear. This injury is common among athletes, especially runners.
Peroneal tendon tears are a type of injury that affects the tendons on the outside of your ankle. These tendons attach the muscles in your lower leg to your foot and help stabilize your ankle. A peroneal tendon tear can occur when these tendons are overstretched or torn. This injury is often caused by an acute trauma, such as a fall or an ankle twist. However, it can also occur due to repetitive stress on the tendons, such as during running.
Common symptoms of a peroneal tendon tear include pain and swelling on the outside of your ankle. You may also notice bruising, tenderness, and instability in your ankle. If you have any of these symptoms, it is important to see the experts at the Foot & Ankle Institute of New England as soon as possible.
Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot. This condition is very common and can cause a lot of pain in the heel area.
If you are experiencing heel pain, it is important to see our foot and ankle physicians for a proper diagnosis. Plantar fasciitis can often be confused with other conditions such as Achilles tendonitis or heel spurs. A doctor at the Foot & Ankle Institute of New England will be able to properly diagnose your condition and recommend the best course of treatment.
There are a few different treatment options for plantar fasciitis. Rest and ice are often recommended to help reduce the inflammation. You may also be prescribed physical therapy exercises or stretches to help strengthen the foot, relieve pain, and improve flexibility. In some cases, orthotic devices such as arch supports or heel cups can be helpful. If conservative treatments do not provide relief, we may recommend surgery.
If you're an athlete, then you know that injuries are always a possibility. Some of the most common sports injuries that can affect the feet and ankles include:
There are several things that you can do to prevent sports injuries from happening. First, make sure that you warm up properly before participating in any physical activity. Second, wear the proper footwear for the activity that you're doing. Third, be aware of your surroundings and know your limits. And fourth, listen to your body and stop if you start to feel pain.
If you do experience a sports injury, it's important to see us at the Foot & Ankle Institute of New England as soon as possible. Treatment will vary depending on the type and severity of the injury, but early intervention is always key.
Your toenails can tell you a lot about your health. If they are discolored, brittle, or peeling, it could be a sign of a toenail disorder. There are many different disorders that can affect your toenails, and some of them are quite common.
If your toenails are yellow, it could be a sign of a fungal infection. This is one of the most common toenail disorders, and it is usually caused by a fungus that lives on your skin. The fungus can spread to your toenails if you have sweaty feet, or if you wear shoes that don’t allow your feet to breathe. If you have a fungal infection, you may see yellow or white patches on your toenails. The nails may also be thickened or brittle. If you are experiencing these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor at the Foot & Ankle Institute of New England.
If your toenails are brittle or peeling, it could be a sign of a deficiency in vitamins A, C, and B12. These vitamins are important for healthy nails, and a lack of them can cause your nails to become weak and peel.
If your toenails are discolored, it could be a sign of an underlying medical condition. Many diseases and conditions can cause changes in the color of your nails. Some common conditions that can cause changes in nail color include liver disease, kidney disease, and anemia.
If you notice any changes in your toenails, visit the Foot & Ankle Institute of New England so that the cause can be determined, and the proper treatment prescribed. Toenail disorders are usually not serious, but they can be a sign of an underlying medical condition. With proper treatment, most toenail disorders can be resolved quickly and without any further complication.
Plantar warts are a type of wart that occur on the bottom of the foot. They are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and can be quite painful.
Plantar warts are usually small, hard growths on the bottom of your foot. They are usually pale in color and have a rough surface. Plantar warts can occur individually or in clusters, and they may be surrounded by thickened skin. If you have a plantar wart, you may feel pain when you walk or stand.
If you think you have a plantar wart, visit the Foot & Ankle Institute of New England for a diagnosis. Treatment of plantar warts can be difficult, and it is important to get the proper treatment to avoid any further complications.
Your feet are constantly taking a beating. They are subjected to pressure and friction from your shoes, as well as the ground. This can lead to a variety of wounds, some of which can be quite painful.
The most common type of foot wound is a blister. Blisters are caused by friction and pressure on the skin. They can be very painful and make it difficult to walk.
Another common type of foot wound is a callus. Calluses are caused by repetitive motion or pressure on the skin. They often occur on the heels or balls of the feet. Calluses can also be painful and make it difficult to walk.
If you are experiencing a painful wound on your foot, visit the Foot & Ankle Institute of New England. We can help treat your wound and relieve your pain.
Medical Care for Foot & Ankle Issues
At the Foot and Ankle Institute of New England, we look forward to ensuring you receive the very best foot and ankle medical and surgical care – and helping you get back to enjoying an active, pain-free life.
Discover how our foot and ankle physicians can help with your condition. Call the Foot & Ankle Institute of New England office nearest you to get started: in Warwick or Middletown, Rhode Island, or Dartmouth, Massachusetts.
You can also request an appointment now.
