November 2018

If you are experiencing chronic pain, which may be caused by inflammation in your feet, you may have rheumatoid arthritis. This uncomfortable ailment is caused by an autoimmune condition and will typically affect the tissues in the feet, which may cause severe pain and swelling. When this condition develops in the feet, the joints in the ankle may become affected as a result of possible damage that the tissues and ligaments may endure. This may cause diminished support in the ankle bones and can cause difficulty in walking. If rheumatoid arthritis (RA) develops in the center of the foot, damage to the ligaments may cause the arch to gradually collapse, and desired relief may be felt by wearing shoe inserts. If you are experiencing this type of foot pain, it’s suggested to consult with a podiatrist, so the proper treatment techniques can begin.

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 one of our podiatrists of New Tampa Foot & Ankle. Our doctors 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 Wesley Chapel, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A common condition that is known as toenail fungus may affect many people throughout their lives. It occurs when a fungus grows under the toenails, and may typically develop gradually, which may cause noticeable changes to the toenail that are difficult to observe. This type of fungus grows and lives in moist environments and is generally known to be very contagious. If you frequently use public pools and shower areas, it’s suggested to wear appropriate shoes, which may aid in preventing the fungus to enter the body. If you have specific medical conditions that may include diabetes, poor circulation, or a weakened immune system, you may be more susceptible in developing this unsightly condition. Additionally, if you have sustained an injury to the toe or skin surrounding the nail, wear artificial nails, or wear shoes that have a closed toe for most of the day, the chances of developing a toenail fungus may increase. It is advised to seek the counsel of a podiatrist, so the correct treatment can begin.

For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of New Tampa Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Wesley Chapel, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Most people have feet that are two different sizes. It’s important to use proper techniques for determining the correct shoe size, and this may aid in preventing uncomfortable foot conditions from developing. This often includes ensuring there is adequate room for the toes to move about freely in, and the feet will benefit by wearing shoes that bend at the ball of the foot. Research has shown the best time of day to purchase shoes is at the end of the day when the feet may be the largest. An accurate shoe measurement can be obtained by tracing your foot on a piece of paper, while wearing socks that you would most likely wear daily. When the foot is traced with a pencil that is held in an upright position, the measurement may be more accurate than if the pencil is angled as this process occurs. After completing this, the shoe size to be determined is by the foot that is the largest and longest. If you would like additional information about how to properly measure your feet so the correct size shoes can be worn, it’s suggested to speak with a podiatrist.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from New Tampa Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

• Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
• Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
• Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
• Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

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

Many people who enjoy running may experience common foot conditions that may be associated with this sport. A portion of the foot that is commonly affected is the the plantar fascia. This is identified as the tissue that is located on the bottom of the foot and connects the heel bone to the toes. If this should become torn or injured, it will most likely produce severe pain and discomfort, and is referred to as plantar fasciitis. A condition known as metatarsalgia may be a result of intense running, and most often affects the middle toes. Patients have equated this discomfort to feeling like there are small stones in their shoes or on the soles of the feet. Additionally, an uncomfortable condition known as Morton’s neuroma may be mistaken with metatarsalgia, but will have additional symptoms that may include burning, tingling, or sharp pains in the toes and surrounding area. It is suggested to consult with a podiatrist if you are experiencing any of these ailments so proper treatment can begin.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from New Tampa Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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