Arthritis, a condition commonly associated with joints like the knees, hips, and hands, can also affect the toes, causing pain, swelling, and difficulty in movement. Toe arthritis primarily targets the big toe, but other toes can be affected as well. This condition arises from the wear and tear of toe joint cartilage and inflammation. Symptoms include persistent toe pain, swelling, and inflammation, often accompanied by redness in cases of rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis. Osteoarthritis, on the other hand, may lead to bone spur formation, further restricting movement. Other symptoms of toe arthritis include limited range of motion, difficulty and pain in bending the big toe, permanent downward bending of the toe. Increased pain during weight-bearing activities, and deformities like hammer toe, are other factors. If you suffer with toe pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podatrist to see if arthritis is the culprit and get treatment that will relieve discomfort.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot & Ankle Associates, PLLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Lake Worth and Aledo/Willow Park, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Most people's feet typically point straight ahead or outward, but some children develop a condition known as in-toeing, where the feet point inward which is often referred to as pigeon toes. In-toeing is a common phenomenon in young children, and while it often corrects itself with time, some cases require attention and treatment, based on the underlying cause. Internal tibial torsion is one cause of in-toeing, and most doctors refrain from prescribing treatment for young children with this condition. Braces and special shoes are generally ineffective and rarely used due to their expense and children's reluctance to wear them. Surgical correction is only considered in cases where the twist in the tibia is severe and appearance becomes a concern. Excess femoral anteversion, another cause of in-toeing, typically improves on its own as children age. Braces or shoe modifications are generally not effective, and surgery is only considered in very severe cases where the inward twist of the thigh bone is significant. Metatarsus adductus, characterized by a curved foot shape, may involve stretching exercises or the use of casts or braces for more severe cases. Fortunately, any residual curvature post-treatment does not impede a child's ability to run and play, and it is not painful. If your child’s in-toeing seems to be problematic, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can determine what the best treatment is.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact one of our podiatrists of Advanced Foot & Ankle Associates, PLLC. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Lake Worth and Aledo/Willow Park, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis, a common cause of heel and arch pain, arises from repeated micro-tears in the plantar fascia fibers, primarily at the point where the fascia connects to the heel bone. Stretching exercises are a vital treatment for plantar fasciitis. These exercises should focus on both the calf and the plantar fascia to yield maximum effectiveness, as tight calf muscles are a frequent cause of plantar fasciitis. Strengthening exercises that target intrinsic foot muscles and the calf muscles offer significant relief by stabilizing and supporting the foot and heel. Shoe inserts, such as gel heel pads or orthotics, are another simple, yet effective treatment. These aids vary from basic heel pads or cups that offer cushioning for the heel to custom-made orthotics prescribed by a podiatrist that correct abnormal foot positions, such as fallen arches. They reduce tension on the Achilles tendon and plantar fascia, providing much-needed comfort. Choosing the right footwear is an important way to manage plantar fasciitis. Opt for shoes that provide excellent cushioning and support, especially for the medial arch of the foot. Wearing shoes throughout the day, rather than walking barefoot, ensures continuous support and cushioning for the feet. If you are experiencing symptoms of plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can safely guide your treatment and recovery. 

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot & Ankle Associates, PLLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Lake Worth and Aledo/Willow Park, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Morton's toe is characterized by the second toe appearing to be longer than the big toe. It is a prevalent foot structure that affects weight distribution and occasionally causes discomfort. Morton’s toe is a hereditary trait that has also been associated with potential advantages in athletics, as many professional athletes exhibit Morton's toe. Morton's toe is not actually caused by the second toe itself. In fact, its root lies in the metatarsals. When the first metatarsal is shorter, it makes the second toe seem longer. This condition leads to uneven weight distribution across the other bones of the feet. Over time, Morton’s toe may result in aches and pains, primarily felt at the base of the first two metatarsal bones and at the head of the second metatarsal. Fortunately, conservative treatments, such as padding, specific exercises, medication, and wearing custom orthotics can effectively manage the associated pain. For cases where conservative measures fall short, surgical options that call for removing certain toe joints are available. Seeking early intervention and consulting with a podiatrist can guide individuals with Morton's toe toward an appropriate and personalized course of action to maintain foot health and overall well being. For more information on Morton’s toe, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot & Ankle Associates, PLLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Lake Worth and Aledo/Willow Park, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Heel pain is a prevalent issue that affects people of all ages, whether you are an athlete, a busy professional, or a parent. Plantar fasciitis is the most common complaint of heel pain. It occurs when excessive pressure on the feet damages the plantar fascia ligament, resulting in pain and stiffness. This condition is often associated with activities that put stress on the feet, like running or standing for extended periods. The next most common causes of heel pain are sprains and strains, which are injuries to the body. These ailments can range from minor to severe and are often the result of physical activities or accidents. A fractured heel can be caused by accidents, falls, or severe trauma. This is considered a medical emergency and requires urgent care. If you experience sudden, severe pain in your heel, in addition to swelling and difficulty bearing weight, it is beneficial to seek immediate medical attention. Achilles tendonitis is another common reason for heel pain, caused when the tendon connecting the calf muscles to the heel becomes inflamed due to overuse injuries. Finally, bursitis is an inflammation of the fluid filled sacs surrounding joints, where tendons, skin, and muscle tissues meet bones. It can lead to heel pain and discomfort. If you have any type of heel pain that inhibits your daily life, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options. 

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Advanced Foot & Ankle Associates, PLLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Lake Worth and Aledo/Willow Park, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.