Working in a fast-paced restaurant kitchen places constant stress on the feet, due to long hours of standing and quick movements on hard surfaces. Wearing supportive, non-slip shoes helps improve stability and reduce the risk of slips and falls. Anti-fatigue mats can lessen pressure on joints, while taking regular breaks allows the feet to rest and recover. Compression socks may improve circulation and reduce swelling during long shifts. Risk factors include prolonged standing, heavy workloads, and improper footwear. Conditions like plantar fasciitis may develop without proper care. If you have foot pain during your work day, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Granite State Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Manchester and Bedford, NH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Morton’s neuroma is a painful condition caused by irritation and thickening of a nerve that runs between the toes, most often between the third and fourth toes. The problem develops when repeated pressure or stress compresses the nerve as it passes between the metatarsal bones. Patients commonly describe a burning or sharp pain in the ball of the foot that may radiate into the toes. Some people feel tingling, numbness, or the sensation of stepping on a small pebble inside the shoe. Symptoms may worsen when wearing tight shoes or high heels and often improve when the shoe is removed. Over time the discomfort can become more frequent during walking or standing. A podiatrist can diagnose Morton’s neuroma through a physical examination and by evaluating where the pain occurs when pressure is applied. Treatment may include shoe modifications, metatarsal padding, custom orthotics, and targeted exercises to reduce pressure on the nerve. If you think you may have Morton’s neuroma, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Granite State Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

Hammertoe is a deformity in which one of the smaller toes bends at the middle joint and stays in a raised position instead of lying flat. It most often affects the second toe. In early stages, the toe may still be flexible, but over time it can become stiff and hard to straighten. Hammertoe develops when the muscles and tendons that control the toe become unbalanced, causing the joint to remain bent. Contributing factors include inherited foot shape, arthritis, injury, bunions that crowd the toes, and years of wearing tight shoes. Common symptoms include pain when walking, redness over the bent joint, and calluses or corns caused by rubbing. Some people also feel aching in the ball of the foot due to added pressure. A podiatrist can examine the foot, confirm the diagnosis, and recommend orthotics or surgery when needed. If you have symptoms of hammertoe, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Granite State Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

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

Cracked heels are common in cooler weather because cold air and indoor heating dry out the skin. The skin on the bottom of the heel is naturally thick to handle body weight and pressure. When it becomes too dry, it loses flexibility and can split. These splits, often called fissures, are deep cracks that may cause pain, bleeding, or infection. Standing for long periods, wearing open-backed shoes, and taking long, hot showers can make the problem worse. People with diabetes or poor circulation may have a harder time healing and can face more serious complications. A podiatrist can examine the heels, safely trim thick, hardened skin, and provide professional treatment that helps restore moisture and protect the skin. Early medical care can reduce pain and prevent infection. If you have cracked heels that cause pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and safe treatment.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Granite State Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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