Orthotics are custom or prefabricated shoe inserts designed to support, align, and improve the function of the feet. They come in different types, including rigid orthotics for control, soft orthotics for cushioning, and semi-rigid devices that combine both benefits. People may need orthotics to relieve pain from conditions like plantar fasciitis, flat feet, bunions, or arthritis, as well as to improve posture and prevent injuries. A podiatrist can evaluate your gait, diagnose underlying issues, and recommend the right orthotic solution tailored to your needs. If you are experiencing foot or ankle discomfort, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if orthotics will benefit you and what type of orthotic is right for you.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Pasquale Cancelliere, DPM from Candria Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctor 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 feel free to contact our offices located in Londonderry, NH and Salem, NH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Friction blisters are small fluid-filled pockets that form on the skin, often caused by rubbing, heat, or moisture. They commonly develop on the feet from wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, walking or running long distances, or wearing damp socks. The friction causes the layers of skin to separate, allowing fluid to collect and form a bubble-like sore. Symptoms include redness, tenderness, swelling, and a clear or sometimes bloody fluid inside. Blisters may be painful, especially when pressure is applied, and can become infected if popped or cared for improperly. Infected blisters may appear red, warm, or filled with pus. A podiatrist can diagnose the type and severity of a blister and determine if there is an underlying cause like poor foot mechanics or inappropriate footwear. Treatment includes draining the blister safely to prevent infection, recommending footwear changes, or applying protective padding. If you have a painful friction blister, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective prevention tips and  treatment solutions.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact Pasquale Cancelliere, DPM of Candria Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can 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.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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

As infants and toddlers grow, their feet go through various developmental stages that require different types of footwear. In the early stages, when babies are crawling and shuffling, barefoot is often best as it allows for natural movement. However, if footwear for your child is necessary for protection, their shoes should be soft, flexible, and roomy to accommodate delicate feet. Pre-walking shoes offer gentle support and protection while still allowing for free movement of the toes and heels. As toddlers begin to walk independently, they will need more structured shoes for support, especially as they spend more time on their feet. At this stage, it is important to focus on fit, as poorly fitting shoes can cause discomfort, even though toddlers may not be able to communicate this. When children reach the toddler and preschool stages, they require footwear that promotes coordination and accommodates their growing feet. For guidance on the kind of shoes needed for your child, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for expert advice and guidance.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Pasquale Cancelliere, DPM of Candria Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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

Walking poles can help protect the feet by lowering the pressure placed on them during long or uneven walks. As the poles shift some of the body weight away from the feet, the impact on the heels, arches, and toes is reduced. This can ease foot fatigue and help prevent injuries linked to overuse or poor shock absorption. On steep or unstable ground, walking poles improve balance, which lowers the chance of twisting an ankle or placing extra stress on the forefoot. People with weak ankles or joint stiffness may notice less discomfort when walking with poles, as the added support can improve foot alignment and motion. A podiatrist can assess whether walking poles are appropriate based on existing foot conditions and recommend ways to improve support and gait. If you have foot pain while walking, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for relief and expert guidance.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Pasquale Cancelliere, DPM from Candria Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctor to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

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