Items filtered by date: September 2018

The condition known as rheumatoid arthritis is a painful ailment that typically affects the muscles and joints. When this occurs in the feet, the toenails may become affected in addition to the patient possibly experiencing pain and stiffness. The discomfort is generally felt in the smaller joints in the feet, and this can possibly lead to the formation of corns and bunions. In severe cases, the toes may curl and hammertoe may develop as a result of this. This particular form of arthritis occurs when the body’s immune system is compromised. The ability to fight infection is diminished, and this may cause pain and swelling to gradually develop. If you are afflicted with rheumatoid arthritis in the joints of the feet, it’s strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist, so correct treatment can commence.

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 Jim Maxka, DPM of South Penn Foot & Ankle Associates. 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 Hanover, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Many people have a foot condition that is referred to as flat feet. This term is used if the patient has extremely low arches or the arch doesn't exist at all. The purpose of the arch is to aid in balancing the weight of the body as it extends to the feet and legs. The foot will benefit if the arch is flexible and strong, which may help in maintaining balance on different types of surfaces. There are several common symptoms that many patients are aware of including pain that may affect the entire foot and ankle, swelling on the inside of the foot, and a stiff feeling that may be experienced in one or both feet. Possible causes for this condition to develop may originate from an inherited trait, an injury that may have occurred to the foot or ankle, or a medical condition such as arthritis. A podiatrist can perform a correct diagnosis to determine the severity of this ailment in addition to discussing proper treatment techniques.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Jim Maxka, DPM from South Penn Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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

One of the most common injuries the feet can endure may be an ankle sprain. Although this may be a common occurrence among athletes, many people will experience this condition as a result of everyday activities. It happens when the ankle twists unnaturally, and the ligaments and tendons in the foot endure enormous stress. There are several symptoms that are indicative of a sprained ankle including severe pain and discomfort, swelling, and bruising. Some of the more typical reasons why an individual may sprain their ankle may include stepping off a curb that was out of sight, or stepping down with excessive pressure while running. If you feel you have injured your ankle that may have resulted in a sprain, please schedule a consultation with a podiatrist for proper treatment.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Jim Maxka, DPM from South Penn Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

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