Blog

Blog

Types of Arthritis

Arthritis is a painful condition that can affect the feet. There are numerous bones, joints, and ligaments that the feet are comprised of, and arthritis may limit their mobility. Patients who are afflicted with this uncomfortable condition may notice a change in the structure of their feet, frequent pain and discomfort, and a change in skin color. There are several types of arthritis which can affect the feet. Gout is noticeable in the big toe, and causes severe inflammation and swelling in the surrounding joints. People who are diagnosed with reactive arthritis will typically see symptoms in the heel or ankle area. Another common form of arthritis is referred to as rheumatoid arthritis, and generally affects the joints in the feet. It is beneficial to wear shoes that fit properly, in addition to losing excess weight which can put pressure on the feet. If you have any form of arthritis in the feet, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can guide you toward proper treatment options.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Pennsylvania Foot & Ankle. 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 one of our offices located in Bensalem, Philadelphia, Northeast Philadelphia, Yardley, PA, and Hamilton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Arthritic Foot Care

Peripheral Artery Disease Overview

Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, is commonly caused by a buildup of plaque deposited in the walls of blood vessels. This plaque is made of cholesterol and fatty substances that can cause the arteries to become stiff and narrowed. Patients at the highest risk for developing PAD are those with diabetes or those who have a history of smoking. Other risk factors include high cholesterol, kidney disease and high blood pressure. Some symptoms that can occur from PAD are muscle cramps, reduced blood flow, weakness in legs and feet, color changes in the skin and dark purple or black spots that can develop on the toes. There are some ways to combat the symptoms. Standing and resting for a few minutes will cause the symptoms that stopped someone from walking to resolve. Also over time, people with PAD will tend to limit what they do in order to avoid symptoms, walk slower and use a cane. If you are currently experiencing symptoms of peripheral artery disease, it is advised that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.


 

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with one of our podiatrists from Pennsylvania Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

  • Claudication (leg pain from walking)
  • Numbness in legs
  • Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
  • Paleness of the skin
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
  • Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bensalem, Philadelphia, Northeast Philadelphia, Yardley, PA, and Hamilton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Peripheral Artery Disease

How to Treat Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are bumps that form on the feet from the HPV virus. Plantar warts may be painful, and are typically contracted in places such as public swimming pools or gyms. There are various treatment options for this condition. The goal is to irritate the bump so your own immune system can attack it. On your own, you could buy salicylic acid or apple cider vinegar and apply it to the warts. Another at-home remedy is leaving a piece of duct tape on the wart, and pulling it off after a few days. If these options do not work, or if you want the warts gone quickly, you can see a podiatrist. The doctor can freeze, burn or cut the lesion, in order to initiate an immune system response. If your plantar warts are bothering you, or if you are not sure what the bumps on your feet are, be sure to see a podiatrist.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Pennsylvania Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

  • Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
  • Hard or thick callused spots
  • Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
  • Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

  • Freezing
  • Electric tool removal
  • Laser Treatment
  • Topical Creams (prescription only)
  • Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bensalem, Philadelphia, Northeast Philadelphia, Yardley, PA, and Hamilton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about What Are Plantar Warts?

Plantar Warts Can Be Treated!

Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!

What Is a Blister?

Excessive friction in a specific area of the foot may be a reason for blisters to form. This damages the top layer of the skin and can cause pain and discomfort. They are described as small pockets that are filled with fluid that develop over the affected area. Blisters are considered to be a natural defense mechanism the body produces to promote healing. Additional reasons why blisters may develop can be a result of a sunburn, an allergic reaction to an insect bite, or frostbite. Some patients develop blisters if specific medical conditions exist that may include eczema, chicken pox, or an autoimmune disease. When new skin has formed over the affected area, the majority of blisters will drain naturally. If you would like additional information about how blisters can form on the feet, please speak with a podiatrist.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of Pennsylvania Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

  • Bubble of skin filled with fluid
  • Redness
  • Moderate to severe pain
  • Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bensalem, Philadelphia, Northeast Philadelphia, Yardley, PA, and Hamilton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Blisters

Connect With Us