Arthritis in the feet can make standing, walking, and staying active painful. This condition causes inflammation in or around the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling. Osteoarthritis develops when cartilage, the cushioning tissue at the ends of bones, wears down. Without enough cartilage, bones can rub together and create foot or ankle pain. Rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints. Post-traumatic arthritis can develop after an injury like a fracture, dislocation, or sprain.

Foot arthritis can affect areas from the heel to the toes. Symptoms include tender joints, warmth, and pain with movement. Stiffness can become more noticeable after sitting or sleeping. Some patients also have difficulty walking because painful joints do not move as freely. Rheumatoid arthritis can affect the same joints in both feet and can contribute to changes like hammertoes. Osteoarthritis can affect only one foot. Because several types of arthritis can produce similar symptoms, identifying the type and affected joints is an important part of choosing appropriate foot care.

A podiatrist can examine the feet, assess joint movement, and determine how arthritis is affecting walking. Treatment can focus on reducing pressure on painful joints and supporting comfortable movement. A podiatrist can recommend supportive shoes or custom orthotics, which are inserts designed to improve foot support and alignment. Care can also address changes in foot structure that develop because of arthritis. When joint damage is severe, surgery can be considered to reduce pain or improve function. Regular podiatric evaluations can help track changes in the feet and guide treatment as symptoms change. If you have symptoms of foot arthritis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and management solutions.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Parkwood Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

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

Athlete’s foot, also called tinea pedis, is a fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet. Despite its name, anyone can develop athlete’s foot, not just athletes. The fungus grows well in warm, moist environments and can spread through contact with infected skin or contaminated surfaces. Symptoms often develop between the toes but can appear on other parts of the foot. Common signs include itching, redness, and cracked or peeling skin. The affected area may also feel sore or develop small blisters. Because several skin conditions can look similar, an accurate diagnosis can help determine whether a fungal infection is causing the symptoms.

Athlete’s foot can spread from one area of the body to another and may sometimes affect the toenails. The infection can also pass between people through shared surfaces or personal items. Some cases are mild, while others become persistent or return after treatment. Cracks in the skin can create openings that allow bacteria to enter, potentially leading to another infection. People with certain health conditions may face a greater risk of complications from foot infections. Persistent itching, skin changes, or discomfort should be professionally evaluated, especially when symptoms become worse or do not improve with previous treatment.

A podiatrist can examine the feet and determine whether symptoms are caused by athlete’s foot or another skin condition. In some cases, a sample of skin may be examined to confirm a fungal infection. Once diagnosed, a podiatrist can recommend appropriate antifungal treatment based on the location and severity of the infection. Professional podiatry care can also identify related problems involving the skin or toenails and monitor areas at greater risk for complications. Early evaluation may help control the infection before it becomes more difficult to manage. If persistent itching, peeling skin, or other signs of athlete’s foot are causing discomfort, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one of our podiatrists from Parkwood Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Brunswick and Hinesville, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Heel pain is a frequent foot complaint that can interfere with walking, standing, and daily comfort. It often develops when the tissues that support the heel become irritated or inflamed. Conditions that contribute to heel pain include plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, bursitis, and heel spurs. Each condition affects different structures of the foot, but all can lead to discomfort that worsens with activity or prolonged standing. Understanding the cause of heel pain is important for proper treatment and long-term relief.

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain and occurs when the thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot becomes inflamed. This condition often causes sharp pain with the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest. Achilles tendonitis affects the tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel. It may cause pain and stiffness at the back of the heel, especially during movement. Bursitis involves inflammation of fluid filled sacs that cushion the heel, leading to tenderness and swelling. Heel spurs are bony growths that can develop due to strain, often associated with plantar fasciitis, and may cause persistent discomfort.

Risk factors for heel pain vary by condition but often include overuse, improper footwear, and biomechanical issues. Individuals who stand for long periods, participate in high-impact activities, or wear shoes with poor arch support may be more likely to develop heel pain. Tight calf muscles, obesity, and foot structure abnormalities can also increase strain on the heel. 

Treatment for heel pain depends on the underlying cause and severity of symptoms. Rest, wearing supportive footwear, and stretching exercises can help relieve pressure and improve function. Custom orthotics may also bring relief. Early evaluation by a podiatrist can identify the specific condition and guide effective treatment. If you have heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat various causes.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Parkwood Podiatry. Our doctors 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 feel free to contact our offices located in Brunswick and Hinesville, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Hammertoe is a deformity that causes one or more toes to bend at the middle joint instead of lying flat. The affected toe can take on a claw-like shape, making walking and wearing shoes uncomfortable. The second toe is affected most often, although other toes can develop the problem. Wearing tight, narrow shoes and high heels place repeated pressure on the toes. This pressure can change how muscles and tendons work, causing the toe to stay bent. Some people are born with hammertoe, while others develop it because of foot structure or long-term shoe pressure. Early evaluation helps prevent the deformity from becoming more difficult to treat.

Symptoms usually begin with a toe that feels stiff or rubs against the inside of a shoe. Pain can increase while walking because the bent joint presses against footwear that lacks proper support. Corns can develop on the top of the toe, and calluses can form on the ball of the foot. As the deformity becomes more fixed, straightening the toe becomes difficult. A podiatrist examines the foot, checks toe movement, and determines whether other foot problems are contributing to the deformity. X-rays also help evaluate joint alignment and guide treatment decisions. They also look for pressure areas, toe flexibility, and skin changes before recommending treatment.

Treatment focuses on relieving pain and improving toe position before the deformity becomes permanent. A podiatrist recommends shoes with a wide toe box and provides custom orthotics when abnormal foot mechanics add pressure. Padding or splinting supplied by the podiatrist helps protect irritated areas and improve toe alignment. The goal is to improve comfort and foot function and make shoes fit more comfortably. If you have pain from a hammertoe deformity, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Parkwood Podiatry. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Brunswick and Hinesville, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.