Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, is a chronic autoimmune condition that can affect various joints throughout the body, including those in the feet and ankles. In RA, the joints become inflamed, leading to pain, swelling, stiffness, and loss of function. Several foot and ankle joints commonly affected by RA include the metatarsophalangeal, or MTP joints, which connect the toes to the foot bones, as well as the subtalar and ankle joints. Inflammation in these joints can cause deformities, such as bunions, hammertoes, and flat feet, that make walking and standing difficult. Additionally, RA can lead to the formation of rheumatoid nodules, which are firm lumps that develop under the skin, often surrounding the Achilles tendon or on the toes. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential for managing RA symptoms and preventing joint damage. If you are experiencing stiffness in your feet or ankles, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can suggest treatment options.

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 Patricia Mcilrath, DPM of Health One Podiatry. 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 offices located in Reading and Rittenhouse, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, or JRA, a chronic autoimmune disorder, occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues, leading to joint inflammation and damage. While the exact cause remains elusive, genetic predisposition and environmental factors likely play significant roles. Children with a family history of autoimmune diseases are at higher risk, although JRA can affect anyone. Symptoms may include joint stiffness, swelling, and pain, particularly in the feet and ankles. In some cases, JRA can lead to complications like joint deformities and growth problems. Diagnosing this condition involves a thorough evaluation of symptoms, medical history, and physical exams, often supplemented with blood tests and imaging studies. If your child has foot or ankle joint pain, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can collaborate with other relevant healthcare professionals to tailor a treatment plan that can relieve pain, maintain joint function, and prevent deformities.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Patricia Mcilrath, DPM of Health One Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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

Congenital abnormalities of the feet encompass a variety of conditions present at birth, including clubfoot, rocker deformity, flatfoot, metatarsus varus, and pes cavus. Clubfoot involves the inward twisting of the foot, while rocker deformity presents as a prominent midfoot bump. Flatfoot refers to a collapsed arch, metatarsus varus to inward forefoot curvature, and pes cavus to an exaggerated arch. Radiographic images are essential in diagnosing and monitoring these conditions, providing detailed insights into bone alignment and structure. Treatment options vary depending on severity and type and may include bracing, stretching exercises, or, in some cases, surgical intervention. A podiatrist specializes in addressing congenital foot abnormalities, offering expert guidance, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing care to ensure optimal foot health. If you have a child born with a congenital foot problem, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist as quickly as possible for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Patricia Mcilrath, DPM of Health One Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.

What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?

A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.

What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?

Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:

• Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
• Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
• Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
• Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
• Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
• Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Treatment and Prevention

While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Reading and Rittenhouse, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Posterior heel pain can be caused by various conditions that can significantly impact daily life. Achilles tendinopathy, often induced by excessive mechanical loading or certain medications, results in achy or sharp pain that worsens with activity or pressure. Diagnosis of posterior heel pain involves clinical examination by a podiatrist, revealing tenderness along the tendon and sometimes visible thickening. Treatment strategies, including activity modification and specialized exercises, necessitate personalized guidance from a podiatrist. Similarly, Haglund deformity, marked by a prominence at the back of the heel, can lead to retrocalcaneal bursitis. It may require tailored interventions, such as footwear adjustments, certain medications, and in severe cases, surgery. In children between eight and 14 years old who are active in sports, pain in the heel may indicate the onset of Sever’s disease. Ceasing the activity and changing to more supportive footwear, can help. Consulting a podiatrist is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective management of posterior heel pain, as these foot doctors possess the expertise to develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your needs. To regain mobility and ensure that heel pain does not impede daily activities, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. 

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Patricia Mcilrath, DPM of Health One Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Reading and Rittenhouse, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition characterized by compression of the tibial nerve as it passes through the tarsal tunnel, a narrow space on the inside of the ankle. It typically affects individuals who engage in activities that involve repetitive ankle motion or those with foot deformities such as flat feet. Symptoms may include pain, burning, tingling, or numbness along the inner ankle and the sole of the foot. Left untreated, tarsal tunnel syndrome can lead to complications like muscle weakness or atrophy in the foot. Management often involves conservative measures such as rest, orthotic devices, and anti-inflammatory medications to alleviate symptoms and reduce nerve compression. If you have ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can diagnose tarsal tunnel syndrome and provide appropriate treatment.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Patricia Mcilrath, DPM of Health One Podiatry. 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 feel free to contact our offices located in Reading and Rittenhouse, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.