Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, is an autoimmune condition that causes inflammation in the joints, often beginning in the smaller joints such as those in the feet. In its early stages, rheumatoid arthritis may cause subtle symptoms that gradually worsen over time. Individuals might notice stiffness in the feet, particularly in the morning or after long periods of rest. Swelling surrounding the toe joints or the ball of the foot may also develop, accompanied by warmth and tenderness. Pain can be constant or may come and go, making walking uncomfortable. As the condition progresses, joint function can be affected, leading to changes in foot shape. If you have joint pain and stiffness in your feet, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer appropriate relief and treatment remedies.

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 Michael Bess, DPM of Florida. Our podiatrist 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 West Palm Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Offloading devices are used to reduce pressure on specific areas of the foot where ulcers have formed, helping to prevent further damage and support healing. Offloading devices typically shift body weight away from the wound, which decreases friction and mechanical stress. Total contact casts provide the highest level of pressure relief by fully immobilizing the foot and ankle, making them effective for deep or persistent ulcers. For patients needing more flexibility, removable cast walkers not only offer protection but also allow access for wound inspection. Custom orthotics and specialized shoes with cushioned soles are often used for less severe ulcers or during the later stages of healing. Offloading sandals and pneumatic boots may help with minor ulcers by offering light support and comfort for indoor use. Choosing the right device depends on the size and depth of the ulcer, the location on the foot, and the patient’s ability to move independently. If you have foot ulcers that require wound care, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to see if offloading devices may work for you.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Michael Bess, DPM from Florida. Our podiatrist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in West Palm Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Sesamoiditis causes pain beneath the big toe due to irritation or injury of the sesamoid bones, which are two small, round bones located under the head of the first metatarsal. These tiny bones are embedded in a tendon and assist with weight-bearing and toe movement. When exposed to repetitive stress, direct trauma, or altered foot mechanics, they can become painful, especially during walking or when wearing thin-soled or high-heeled shoes. Sesamoiditis more commonly affects dancers, joggers, and people with high arches or bunions. Symptoms include toe pain that gets worse with pressure, and swelling, warmth, or redness may occur near the joint. A podiatrist can perform an exam to pinpoint areas of tenderness and assess the structure of the foot. Imaging may be used to rule out fractures or other joint conditions. Treatment often involves changes in footwear and the addition of custom orthotics to reduce pressure on the sesamoids. In severe or prolonged cases, surgery may be recommended. If you are experiencing pain under the big toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Michael Bess, DPM of Florida. Our podiatrist 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 office located in West Palm Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.