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Rheumatoid arthritis can have a serious effect on the feet, often causing ongoing pain and changes in the way the joints move. The toes and the ball of the foot are frequently affected, leading to problems like bunions, claw-like toes, or joints that shift out of place. These changes can make walking difficult, and may create painful pressure spots or thickened skin on the bottom of the foot. The inflammation that comes with rheumatoid arthritis can weaken the support structures in the feet, which may lead to balance and instability problems. The ankles can also be strained by rheumatoid arthritis as the body tries to adjust to changes in posture and walking patterns. A podiatrist can evaluate these issues, help manage the discomfort, and discuss treatment options to improve mobility and reduce pain. If you have foot or ankle pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact Glenn Davison, DPM of Advanced Podiatry. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

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

Ankle pain is a common complaint that can make daily activities difficult. It is an uncomfortable sensation or ache in one or both of the ankle joints. Possible causes are varied. They include minor sprains, strains, fractures, arthritis, or tendon inflammation. The feeling is often described as a throbbing, sharp, or burning pain, sometimes accompanied by stiffness and swelling. It may hurt when you walk or bear weight. Prevention is key. Choose supportive footwear, maintain a healthy weight, and always stretch properly before exercise. Additionally, build strength in your lower legs and ankles. If pain does strike, rest and elevation are important first steps, and gentle compression may reduce swelling. A podiatrist can accurately diagnose the issue and offer specialized treatments, such as custom orthotics or targeted exercises for effective relief. If your pain is severe, if you cannot bear weight, or if swelling persists for more than two days, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for appropriate treatment solutions.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Glenn Davison, DPM from Advanced Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Union, NJ and New York . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Strong and flexible ankles are essential for volleyball players to prevent sprains and maintain performance. Simple stretches like the ankle alphabet, where you trace letters in the air with your toes, can improve mobility and strengthen stabilizing muscles. Ankle rolls help warm up the joints, while dorsiflexion stretches the muscles at the front of the ankle to enhance range of motion. Additionally, inversion stretches target the inner ankle, promoting balance and flexibility. Performing these exercises regularly can reduce the risk of injury during jumps and quick movements. A podiatrist can assess ankle strength, recommend customized exercises, and provide support for recovery. If you have injured your foot or ankle while playing volleyball, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions and guide you on additional injury protection tips.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Glenn Davison, DPM from Advanced Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.

Great ways to stretch your feet:

• Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
• Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
• Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle

Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Union, NJ and New York . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.