Understanding Psoriatic Arthritis in the Feet

Psoriatic arthritis, also known as PsA, is an inflammatory arthritis that can affect people who have the autoimmune skin condition psoriasis. This condition may cause joint pain in the feet and ankles, and  stiffness, and swelling that can make walking uncomfortable. It can also lead to plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis, adding strain to the heel and surrounding tissues. Risk factors include a history of psoriasis, genetic factors, and immune system activity. Symptoms may include tenderness, warmth, reduced range of motion, and fatigue. A podiatrist can evaluate symptoms, provide supportive care, and recommend treatments to reduce inflammation and improve function. If you have any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer 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 Redwood Podiatry Group. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

  • Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
  • Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
  • Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

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

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Sesamoiditis and Pain Beneath the Big Toe

Sesamoiditis is an inflammatory condition that affects the small sesamoid bones located beneath the big toe joint. These bones help absorb weight and assist with movement, but repeated stress can irritate the surrounding tissues. This condition often causes pain under the ball of the foot, especially when walking or pushing off the toes. Causes include overuse, high-impact activities, or wearing shoes that place pressure on the forefoot. Symptoms include swelling, tenderness, and difficulty bending the big toe. Risk factors include certain foot structures and activities that involve jumping or running. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition and recommend treatment to reduce pain and improve function. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat it.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact one of our podiatrists of Redwood Podiatry Group. Our doctors will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

  • Sudden increase in activity
  • Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
  • Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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

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Understanding Cuboid Syndrome

Cuboid syndrome affects a small bone on the outer side of the foot, called the cuboid. This bone helps the foot move and stay stable when walking. In cuboid syndrome, the bone shifts slightly out of its normal position. This can cause pain along the outside of the foot and make it hard to stand or walk comfortably. The problem often happens after an ankle sprain or from repeated stress from running or jumping. Cuboid syndrome can also be linked to having flat feet or tight muscles in the lower leg. A podiatrist can examine the foot, check how it moves, and use imaging to confirm the cause of the pain. Treatment plans include gently guiding the bone back into place and using supportive devices. This includes items like braces, shoe inserts, or padding that help hold the foot in a stable position and reduce strain. If you have symptoms of cuboid syndrome, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for help.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Redwood Podiatry Group. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Bunions
  • Hammertoes
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Bone Spurs
  • Corns
  • Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Ingrown Toenails
  • Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
  • Flat Feet
  • Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
  • And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

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Do Your Child's Feet Hurt?

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.

Causes of Foot Stress Fractures

A stress fracture is a small crack in a bone that develops from repetitive force rather than a single injury. It commonly occurs in the feet and ankles due to repeated stress from activities such as walking and running. Causes include sudden increases in running speed or distance, and inadequate recovery time. Symptoms often involve localized pain, swelling, and tenderness that worsens with activity and improves with rest. Risk factors include wearing improper footwear, low bone density, and high-impact sports. A podiatrist can diagnose stress fractures through examination and imaging, provide immobilization strategies, and recommend footwear or orthotics to support healing. Early treatment is essential to prevent worsening injury. If you have symptoms of a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and offer effective treatment solutions.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Redwood Podiatry Group. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

  • Runners                                
  • People affected with Osteoporosis
  • Tennis or basketball players
  • Gymnasts
  • High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Eureka and Arcata, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

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