People who develop rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, are no strangers to the pain this condition can cause. The symptoms that often accompany this ailment can include stiffness, and the joints throughout the body may be swollen. The feet can be affected by rheumatoid arthritis, and it may be difficult to walk and complete daily activities. RA is considered to be an autoimmune disease, and it attacks the lining of the joints. Some patients can experience fevers, extreme fatigue, and possible weight loss. The components of the feet that are affected can include the cartilage, toe joints, and the joints that connect the foot and the ankle. Patients who are afflicted with RA look for relief, and may find it, by wearing custom-made orthotics, practicing a regular exercise routine, and maintaining a healthy weight. If you have foot pain, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat rheumatoid arthritis.
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 Gabe Rodriguez, DPM of Sioux Falls Foot Specialist. 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 office located in Sioux Falls, SD. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.
There are many hazards that exist in the workplace which can injure the feet. This can be in addition to the general aches and pains the feet can endure during a typical workday, and it is beneficial to implement methods that can protect the feet. This can begin with wearing shoes that are acceptable for the job, in addition to ensuring they fit correctly. It may help to choose a shoe that has a multi-layer insole that can provide extra support. Many people wear work shoes that have a wide toe box, which can give the toes ample room to move freely in. Jobs that require safety toed shoes have a steel tip on the ends, which is adequate in protecting the toes while tripping, or if a heavy object falls on the foot. There are various types of shoes that can be purchased for the work environment. If you would like more information about this, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can provide you with expert knowledge.
While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Gabe Rodriguez, DPM from Sioux Falls Foot Specialist. Our doctor 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 feel free to contact our office located in Sioux Falls, SD. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
People who enjoy playing pickleball may find they have developed plantar fasciitis. It is a common injury that can happen from this sport, and implementing preventive methods can help an individual to continue enjoying this activity. People may choose to wear splints during the night, which may help to keep the damaged tendons in a lengthened position. Additionally, it may be helpful to stop playing pickleball temporarily while the foot can heal. This type of foot injury often brings pain and discomfort, and patients may find temporary relief while rolling the affected foot on a frozen water bottle. Blood flow to the injured part of the foot may improve when the foot is frequently elevated, and over-the-counter pain medicine is taken if needed. If you enjoy playing pickleball and have developed plantar fasciitis, it is strongly suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition, which can have you gradually return to participating in this sport.
Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Gabe Rodriguez, DPM from Sioux Falls Foot Specialist. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Common Injuries
The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:
Achilles Tendonitis
Achilles Tendon Rupture
Ankle Sprains
Broken Foot
Plantar Fasciitis
Stress Fractures
Turf Toe
Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.
Treatment
Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Sioux Falls, SD. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
