Rheumatoid arthritis is a long-term autoimmune disease that can strongly affect the feet and ankles. An autoimmune disease means the immune system, which normally protects the body, mistakenly attacks healthy joint tissue. In rheumatoid arthritis, this attack causes inflammation in the thin lining inside joints. As swelling continues, joints in the toes, mid-foot, and ankles may become painful, stiff, and unstable. People may notice warmth, redness, or difficulty walking, especially in the morning. Over time, the condition can change foot shape, leading to deformities such as drifting toes or flattened arches. Tendons, which are strong bands that help move the foot, may also weaken. Because symptoms can develop slowly and resemble other problems, proper diagnosis is important. A podiatrist can perform a detailed exam, review imaging or blood test results, and develop a care plan to protect joint function and mobility. If you are experiencing foot pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

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 Steven Ginex, DPM of Palm Desert Podiatry. 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 Palm Desert, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A bunion is a hard bump that forms at the base of the big toe where it meets the long bone of the foot. Over time, the big toe begins to lean toward the second toe, which causes the joint to stick outward and become swollen and painful. As the deformity progresses, the joint may become stiff, irritated, and difficult to move. When the pain becomes severe or walking is limited, bunion surgery may be recommended to correct the problem. Several types of procedures may be used depending on the size and shape of the bunion. One procedure removes the bony bump. Another type of surgery cuts and shifts the bone so the big toe can return to a straighter position. In more advanced cases, the joint may be stabilized using small screws or plates to keep the bones aligned. A podiatrist can examine the foot, evaluate the severity of the bunion, and determine the most effective surgical option. If you have a painful bunion, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Steven Ginex, DPM of Palm Desert Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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

The foot is a complex weight-bearing structure made of bones, joints, tendons and ligaments that work together to support standing, walking and running. Key bones include the talus, which connects the foot to the ankle, the calcaneus which forms the heel, and the navicular, cuboid, and the cuneiforms that create the arch and midfoot stability. These bones form joints that allow smooth coordinated motion while tendons attach muscles to bone to generate movement. Ligaments provide stability by holding the bones in proper alignment. Together they absorb shock, adapt to uneven surfaces and propel the body forward. A podiatrist can evaluate biomechanical function, treat pain, and prevent injury. If you have foot or ankle pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, and expert tips on how to maintain strong, healthy feet.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Steven Ginex, DPM from Palm Desert Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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

Haglund’s deformity is a bony enlargement on the back of the heel where the Achilles tendon attaches to it. This condition often develops when rigid shoes rub against the heel, creating repeated pressure and irritation. The area may look swollen or prominent, and the skin can become red or thickened. Many patients describe a deep aching pain at the back of the heel that worsens with walking, especially in shoes with a firm heel. Over time, inflammation of the nearby bursa or Achilles tendon may occur, increasing stiffness and tenderness. A podiatrist begins with a detailed examination and may order imaging to confirm the bony prominence and rule out tendon damage. Treatment can include shoe modifications, protective padding, custom orthotics, and targeted exercises to reduce strain on the Achilles tendon. In more advanced cases, surgical correction may be considered. If you have pain at the back of your heel, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for proper evaluation and care.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Steven Ginex, DPM of Palm Desert Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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