Items filtered by date: November 2024

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that can significantly affect the feet, leading to various debilitating symptoms. Individuals may experience persistent pain and swelling in the joints of the toes and the midfoot, making it difficult to walk or stand comfortably. Stiffness is another common symptom, often more pronounced in the morning or after periods of inactivity. Over time, rheumatoid arthritis can cause deformities, such as bunions or hammer toes, altering the foot's shape and function. Patients may also notice warmth or redness around affected joints, indicating inflammation. Fatigue and a general sense of malaise can accompany these physical symptoms, further impacting daily activities. If you have any of the above symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

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 Itasca 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 offices located in Itasca and Hoffman Estates, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Flat feet, or pes planus, occur when the arches of the feet are flattened, causing the entire sole to make contact with the ground. This can result in pain and cause difficulties with walking. In some cases, people with flat feet may benefit from surgical correction. Flat foot reconstruction aims to reshape the foot by repairing or realigning the bones, tendons, and ligaments to support the arch. The specific technique used can vary, based on such factors as the patient’s anatomy and the severity of their symptoms. While flatfoot surgery often results in improved mobility and relief from pain, the recovery process can take several months and may require the use of a cast or orthopedic boot. A podiatrist can determine if non-surgical treatments are still viable or if surgery is the best course of action. If you have foot problems related to flat feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Itasca Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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