Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks healthy joints, leading to inflammation, pain, and stiffness that can affect mobility and daily life. While the exact cause is not always clear, lifestyle factors can influence how the condition develops and progresses. Smoking, obesity, and poor physical activity levels may contribute to more severe symptoms and negative outcomes by increasing inflammation and placing additional stress on the joints. These factors can also impact foot health, making walking and standing more difficult. A podiatrist can help by evaluating foot structure, relieving pressure, and providing supportive care to improve comfort and function. If you have joint pain or stiffness, it is suggested that you seek professional podiatric care for appropriate relief solutions and symptom 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 Ali Davis, DPM of The Foot 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 Overland Park, KS. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Pain in the ball of the foot, also known as metatarsalgia, causes discomfort beneath the toes where weight is concentrated while walking. The pain may feel sharp, burning, or like stepping on a small object, and it often worsens with activity or prolonged standing. Some patients notice swelling, callus formation, or increased sensitivity in the area. Causes include high-impact activities, improper footwear, high heels, foot shape, or conditions such as nerve irritation or stress on the metatarsal bones. The area may look normal or slightly inflamed but often feels tender to pressure. A podiatrist can assess foot structure, gait, and pressure points to determine the source of pain and may use imaging if needed. Treatment typically includes supportive footwear, cushioning, custom orthotics, and targeted exercises to relieve pressure. If you have pain in the ball of your foot, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Ali Davis, DPM from The Foot Clinic. Our doctor 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)
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 Overland Park, KS. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek professional help and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.
Foot stress fractures are small, hairline cracks in the bones that develop from repeated pressure rather than a single injury. They often occur in sports that involve running and jumping, where continuous impact places strain on the feet. Repetitive stress without enough recovery time can weaken bone structure over time. Risk factors include a sudden increase in exercise intensity, improper footwear, and poor foot support. Symptoms may include pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest. A podiatrist can diagnose a stress fracture through imaging, provide treatment, and recommend prevention strategies. If you have symptoms of a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.
Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Ali Davis, DPM from The Foot Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.
How Are They Caused?
Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon. Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.
Risk Factors
Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures
Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.
If you have any questions please contact our office located in Overland Park, KS. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
