Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes the body to attack the thin layer of cells that cover the joints, leading to soreness, swelling, and ongoing inflammation. When it affects the feet, it can cause stiffness, pain, warmth, and difficulty walking. The exact cause is unknown, but risk factors include family history, certain hormones, and smoking, which may trigger the immune system to react in harmful ways. Over time, this condition can damage joints and change the shape of the feet. A podiatrist can help by offering supportive footwear, custom orthotics, and treatment plans that reduce pressure and improve comfort. If you have persistent foot pain related to rheumatoid arthritis, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

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 Dr. Scott Peters of Ankle & Foot Walk-In Clinic. 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 Mayfield Village, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common condition that affects the appearance and health of the toenails. It often begins as a white or yellow spot under the nail and can spread deeper, causing the nail to thicken and become discolored, brittle, or distorted in shape. In some cases, the nail may separate from the nail bed and emit an unpleasant odor. It may feel uncomfortable or painful, especially when wearing shoes. Causes include exposure to warm, moist environments, such as locker rooms or public showers, wearing sweaty shoes, nail injuries, or having a weakened immune system. A podiatrist can diagnose toenail fungus through a physical exam and lab testing. Treatment options include topical or oral antifungal medications or removing the affected nail. Early treatment improves results and helps prevent the infection from spreading. It is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist at the first sign of toenail changes or discomfort.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Scott Peters of Ankle & Foot Walk-In Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Mayfield Village, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

If you feel a burning pain in the ankle, and numbness or tingling on the sole of the foot, you may have a condition known as tarsal tunnel syndrome. It occurs when the leg’s tibial nerve, which allows you to feel and move the foot, is compressed. Tarsal tunnel syndrome usually affects only one foot, and discomfort tends to be worse at night. It may be caused by osteoarthritis, scar tissue buildup from an ankle injury, rheumatoid arthritis, or diabetes. The area of the foot where the tibial nerve enters the back of the ankle, called the tarsal tunnel, is normally narrow. But if the nerve is compressed, it may activate the syndrome. Pressure on the nerve may be caused by swelling from an injury, a bone spur, flat feet, a high arch, or systemic diseases. Treatment can include orthotics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory injections, and in severe cases, surgery. For more information about tarsal tunnel syndrome, please consult a podiatrist who can evaluate your condition and prescribe the proper treatment.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Dr. Scott Peters of Ankle & Foot Walk-In Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Mayfield Village, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Gout is a form of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, often affecting the big toe. It leads to sudden pain, redness, and swelling, making it difficult to walk or wear shoes comfortably. Common causes include a diet high in purines, alcohol consumption, obesity, and certain medical conditions. Risk factors ,including genetics, kidney disease, and high blood pressure, can increase susceptibility. A podiatrist can help by diagnosing the condition, managing pain, providing custom orthotics, and offering guidance on diet and lifestyle changes. If you have pain in your big toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with  a podiatrist who can help you to manage this painful condition.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Scott Peters from Ankle & Foot Walk-In Clinic. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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