We sat down with Maria Bolla, DPM, a Tufts Medicine podiatrist and podiatric surgeon, to learn more about her approach to foot and ankle care.
Originally from Greece, Dr. Bolla came to the United States to pursue her medical career, bringing a global perspective and a deep commitment to personalized, compassionate care. With experience treating dance-related injuries at the Boston Ballet, she combines clinical expertise with a genuine passion for helping patients stay active and pain-free.
Fascinated by the intricate structure of the foot, Dr. Bolla is dedicated to providing comprehensive care that supports her patients’ mobility, comfort, and overall well-being. We sat down with Dr. Bolla to learn more about podiatry and her approach to helping patients stay on their feet—pain-free and strong.
Which conditions do podiatrists treat?
Podiatrists care for a wide range of conditions affecting the foot and ankle—ranging from routine concerns to complex medical issues. The scope of practice includes everything from treating ingrown toenails and performing in-office foot injections to managing diabetic foot care and performing advanced limb salvage procedures. Some of the most common conditions treated are:
- Bunions
- Flat feet
- Plantar fasciitis
- Sports or overuse injuries, like stress fractures and ankle sprains
- Diabetic foot care, including ulcers and neuropathy
- Fractures of the foot
- Ingrown toenails
- Pediatric foot deformities
When should I see a podiatrist?
Your feet support you every day, and if you’re experiencing the following, come see us:
- Persistent foot or ankle pain: If pain in your foot or ankle lasts more than a few days or worsens with activity, it’s time to see a podiatrist. Ignoring ongoing pain can lead to long-term issues that affect mobility and overall foot health.
- Swelling or discoloration: Redness, bruising or swelling in the foot or ankle may signal an injury, infection or inflammation.
- Limited mobility or stiffness: If walking feels uncomfortable or your range of motion is reduced, you may have an underlying issue like arthritis, tendonitis or a sprain.
- Recurring foot problems: Chronic conditions such as bunions, calluses or plantar fasciitis often require ongoing management. A podiatrist can offer personalized care plans, orthotics and other treatments to prevent flare-ups.
- Wounds or ulcers that don’t heal: For people with diabetes, even minor cuts or sores on the feet can lead to serious complications. If you notice a wound that isn’t healing, see your doctor immediately to reduce the risk of infection or amputation.
What are some foot myths you’d like to debunk?
There are two common myths I often hear:
- Bunions are caused only by wearing high heels. In fact, bunions can develop from any type of shoe that is narrow and are often genetic.
- Podiatrists offer pedicures. While we're skilled in evaluating and treating foot conditions, we offer only services to populations that are at risk, like diabetics or persons with neuropathy.
What are your top tips for keeping feet healthy?
I want to spread the word that over-the-counter inserts can provide a lot of support, especially since about 70 to 80% of the population has flat feet. Another crucial tip is to wear supportive sneakers for most of the day. I understand that you might want to wear dress shoes or fancier footwear at times, but spending the majority of your day in good, supportive sneakers can help prevent foot problems. Look for a sneaker with arch support and a bit of cushioning.
Dr. Bolla sees patients at Tufts Medical Center and Tufts Medical Center Orthopedics in Reading.
