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Rheumatoid Arthritis in the Feet

Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, in the feet is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks joint tissues, causing inflammation, pain, and stiffness. Symptoms include swelling, tenderness, joint deformities, and difficulty walking. Causes are linked to immune system dysfunction, while risk factors include genetics and smoking. Over time, RA can damage cartilage and bone, leading to loss of mobility and chronic discomfort. A podiatrist can help by managing symptoms with custom orthotics, supportive footwear, and joint protection strategies. They can also provide advice on exercises to maintain flexibility. If foot pain or stiffness from RA is affecting daily life, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can guide you toward effective relief and management tips.

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. Ronald Sheppard of Warren-Watchung Podiatry Center. 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 one of our offices located in Marlboro and Watchung, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Long-Distance Running Shoes for Optimal Foot Health

Selecting the proper long-distance running shoes is essential for performance, comfort, and injury prevention. Look for shoes that offer ample cushioning to absorb impact and reduce strain on joints during repetitive motion. Proper support is also important, especially for those with flat feet or high arches, to maintain alignment and reduce fatigue. Road running shoes should provide a durable, lightweight design with breathable materials and a snug, stable fit. A podiatrist can assess your foot structure, gait, and training habits to recommend the best shoe type or prescribe custom orthotics. If you have endured a foot injury from wearing the wrong type of running shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot injuries. This type of doctor can also guide you on how to purchase shoes for your desired running style.

You should always make sure your running shoes fit properly in order to avoid injury. For more information, contact Dr. Ronald Sheppard from Warren-Watchung Podiatry Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

Improper shoe sizing can cause a myriad of problems for your feet. Shoes that don’t fit you properly can lead to muscular imbalances in your body, which can result in foot, knee, and hip injuries.

Tips for Finding the Right Running Shoe

  • Make sure you have a thumb’s width of wiggle room between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
  • There should be little to no slipping at the heel
  • Don’t assume your size in one shoe brand will be your size in another
  • Do not lace up your shoes too tightly
  • Walk around in the store with your new shoes before you buy them

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

Read more about Differences between Walking and Running Shoes

Sudden and Intense Toe Pain May Be Gout

Gout,  one of the oldest known diseases, is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. It most commonly affects the big toe joint, leading to sudden, intense pain, swelling, redness, and warmth. Risk factors include a diet high in purines, obesity, excessive alcohol intake, certain medications, and family history. Attacks can be severe enough to limit walking and daily activities. A podiatrist can diagnose gout, provide treatment to reduce pain and inflammation, and offer guidance on lifestyle changes to prevent future flare-ups. If you experience sharp pain or swelling in your big toe joint, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Ronald Sheppard from Warren-Watchung Podiatry Center. 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 one of our offices located in Marlboro and Watchung, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Gout

A Podiatrist Can Provide Relief for Corn Pain

Corns are thickened areas of skin that form in response to friction or pressure. Hard corns often appear on the tops of toes, the soles of the feet, or the side of the little toe, while soft corns usually develop between toes where the skin stays moist. These painful spots result from wearing tight shoes, abnormal toe positioning, or repeated rubbing against footwear. Over time, corns can make walking uncomfortable and lead to further complications. A podiatrist can accurately diagnose the type of corn, safely remove the thickened skin, and recommend methods to prevent recurrence. If you have a painful corn, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment tips.

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Ronald Sheppard of Warren-Watchung Podiatry Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:

  • Well-fitting socks
  • Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
  • Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctor to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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

Read more about Corns and Calluses

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