Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, is a long-term autoimmune disease that can affect joints throughout the body. An autoimmune disease occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues. RA often begins in the small joints of the hands and feet, and more than 90 percent of people with the disease eventually develop foot or ankle symptoms. In the joints, RA causes inflammation that can damage cartilage and weaken the tissues that provide support. Foot and ankle symptoms may include pain, swelling, and stiffness. Unlike some other forms of arthritis, RA commonly affects the same joints on both sides of the body.

As rheumatoid arthritis progresses, it can affect several areas of the foot and ankle. Ankle involvement may make stairs or inclines difficult, while advanced disease can make ordinary walking painful. In the middle of the foot, weakened ligaments can cause the arch to collapse and change the shape of the foot. RA can also contribute to bunions, claw toes, and pain under the ball of the foot. These structural changes may create areas of abnormal pressure and make wearing shoes uncomfortable. Joint stiffness can also increase as cartilage damage progresses, further limiting comfortable foot movement.

A podiatrist can evaluate how rheumatoid arthritis is affecting the feet and ankles by examining areas of tenderness, joint flexibility, and changes in foot shape. Imaging may also be needed to assess the bones or surrounding soft tissues. Treatment for foot symptoms depends on the location of pain and the amount of joint damage. Professional options include custom orthotics or other supportive devices to decrease pressure and improve comfort. If rheumatoid arthritis is causing persistent foot or ankle pain that affects your mobility, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

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 one of our podiatrists of Foot Doctors of Utica. Our doctors 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 Herkimer, and New Hartford, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot pain is common among restaurant workers who spend long hours standing, walking, and carrying supplies. Repeated pressure can affect the heels, arches, and ankles. Symptoms may include aching, tenderness, or pain that worsens near the end of a shift. Common causes include overuse, poor footwear, and hard flooring. Conditions such as plantar fasciitis, tendon irritation, and stress injuries may also contribute to discomfort.

Restaurant workers face several risk factors for foot pain. Long shifts, walking, and standing on concrete can increase strain. Wearing worn-out shoes or footwear without adequate cushioning may add pressure. A podiatrist can evaluate your gait, footwear, and medical history. The examination may include checking range of motion and identifying inflammation or structural concerns. Imaging tests may be recommended when a fracture or another underlying problem is suspected.

Choosing the right restaurant work shoes can help reduce stress on your feet. Look for comfort, cushioning and a stable fit. A slip-resistant outsole can help improve traction on wet or greasy floors. A water-resistant upper can help protect the feet from spills and moisture. Shoes should provide enough room for the toes without excess movement. Replace shoes when cushioning becomes compressed or the outsole loses traction. A podiatrist may recommend stretching, orthotics, or other treatment based on your diagnosis.

Do not ignore foot pain that continues after rest or affects your ability to work. A podiatrist can create a treatment plan focused on pain relief and healing. Treatment may include footwear changes, orthotics, or exercises. More advanced care may be considered when conservative care does not provide relief. If you have foot pain during your work day, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot Doctors of Utica. Our doctors 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 contact our offices located in Herkimer, and New Hartford, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Psoriatic arthritis is an inflammatory disease that affects the joints and areas where tendons attach to bones. It develops in some people with psoriasis, a condition that causes thick, scaly patches of skin. However, joint symptoms can appear before these skin changes. In the feet, inflammation can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling. The toes may become swollen along their full length, creating a sausage-like appearance. Heel pain can develop where the Achilles tendon joins the heel bone or where the plantar fascia connects beneath the heel. Some patients also feel tenderness in the ankles or pain across the ball of the foot. These symptoms can make standing, climbing stairs, and walking difficult.

Foot problems can vary among patients. Joint swelling can reduce movement and change how weight passes through the foot. This altered pressure can lead to calluses, balance problems, or discomfort in nearby joints. Inflammation may also affect the toenails. Signs include pitting, thickening, and separation from the nail bed. Because these changes can resemble other foot conditions, an accurate diagnosis is important. A podiatrist can examine the feet, review the symptoms, and assess joint movement. The evaluation can also identify areas of abnormal pressure and rule out injuries or other causes of pain.

A podiatrist can help protect foot function and make daily movement more comfortable. Treatment includes custom orthotics to improve support, padding to reduce pressure, and recommendations for properly fitted shoes. A podiatrist can also provide professional care for painful nails or calluses. When inflammation changes the shape or movement of a joint, braces or other supportive devices help improve stability. Regular foot examinations help track joint problems and identify skin or nail concerns before they become harder to manage. If you have foot pain related to psoriatic arthritis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and management solutions.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot Doctors of Utica. 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 our offices located in Herkimer, and New Hartford, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A broken foot refers to a fracture in one or more of the bones in the foot, often caused by trauma, overuse, or direct impact. This injury can affect mobility and daily function, depending on the severity and location of the fracture. Common causes include falls, sports injuries, and repetitive stress. Prompt recognition of a broken foot is important for proper healing. Treatment often includes immobilization, and one widely used option is an air cast boot, which supports the foot during recovery.

Symptoms of a broken foot may include sharp pain, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight. Some individuals notice deformity or increased pain with movement. An air cast boot is a supportive medical device designed to stabilize the foot and ankle while allowing limited movement. It uses adjustable air chambers to provide a customized fit and compression, which can help reduce swelling and improve comfort during healing.

Risk factors for a broken foot include high-impact activities, poor bone health, and lack of proper footwear. Athletes and individuals with physically demanding routines may face higher risk due to repeated stress on the foot. Weak bones or previous injuries can also increase susceptibility. The air cast boot offers several advantages, including a lightweight design that makes it easier to move compared to traditional casts. It can be removed for hygiene purposes, allowing individuals to shower, and, in some cases, swimming may be permitted.

Choosing the right treatment is essential for proper recovery and preventing complications. An air cast boot can provide stability while offering flexibility and comfort during the healing process. Following medical guidance and avoiding premature weight bearing can improve outcomes. Early evaluation ensures that the fracture is managed correctly from the start. If you have broken your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, which may include the use of an air cast boot.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot Doctors of Utica. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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