Arthritis in the feet affects the joints and can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness that interfere with daily activities. Osteoarthritis is the most common type. It develops when the protective cartilage in the joints gradually wears down. This can lead to pain when walking, reduced flexibility, and joint swelling. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes the immune system to attack healthy joint tissue. It commonly affects the same joints in each foot and can lead to inflammation, joint damage, and changes in foot shape. Psoriatic arthritis affects the joints and skin, causing swollen toes, thick toenails, and scaly skin patches. Gout is another painful form of arthritis that usually affects the big toe joint. It develops when uric acid crystals collect in the joint, leading to sudden pain, redness, and swelling. A podiatrist can diagnose the type of arthritis and provide treatment to reduce pain and improve movement. If you have symptoms of arthritis in the feet, toes, or ankles, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and management tips.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Odin De Los Reyes from Connecticut. Our doctor 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 Southbury and Farmington, CT . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper cane use can help prevent falls by improving balance and reducing strain on the feet and ankles. Using a cane the right way gives the body extra support while walking. The cane should be held on the side opposite the weaker or injured leg. This allows the stronger side to carry more weight and keeps each step steady. The cane and the weaker leg should move forward at the same time. On stairs, the stronger leg leads when going up, and the weaker leg leads when going down. Poor technique can increase the risk of falls and joint strain. A podiatrist can evaluate walking patterns, check foot alignment, and ensure the cane is the correct height. Treatment includes gait training, supportive devices, and custom orthotics to improve stability. If you need an assistive device to help you walk, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for expert guidance.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Dr. Odin De Los Reyes from Connecticut. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

Heel pain in active children is often linked to Sever's disease, a common condition caused by irritation at the growth plate in the heel during periods of rapid growth and repeated activity. However, not every young athlete with heel pain has this condition. Similar symptoms may come from Achilles tendon strain, bone stress injuries, deep bruising, or other joint-related problems. Running, jumping, and frequent training can place repeated stress on the heel, making proper diagnosis important when pain does not improve. A podiatrist can evaluate where the pain is located, review activity history, assess walking patterns, and order imaging if needed, to identify the true cause. Running, jumping, and high impact sports can place repeated stress on the heel, making diagnosis important when pain continues. A podiatrist can evaluate the location of pain, activity history, walking pattern, and imaging if needed, to determine the exact cause. Proper diagnosis helps ensure the child receives the right treatment and avoids worsening the problem by continuing sports too soon. If your child has ongoing heel pain during athletic activity, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Dr. Odin De Los Reyes of Connecticut. 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 feel free to contact our offices located in Southbury and Farmington, CT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

High heels can place excess pressure on the front of the foot and alter the natural alignment of the body. This shift in weight may lead to pain in the ball of the foot, toes, or heel, especially after long periods of wear. The foot may appear crowded in the toe box, and some people notice redness, swelling, or the development of calluses. Over time, wearing high heels can contribute to conditions such as bunions and hammertoes, or place strain on the Achilles tendon. High heels may also cause instability, increasing the risk of ankle sprains. Contributing factors include heel height, narrow shoe design, and frequent use without supportive features. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure and gait to identify stress points and recommend appropriate care. Treatment may include shoe modifications, padding, and targeted exercises to improve strength and flexibility. If you have foot pain related to high heels, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for relief and prevention tips.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Odin De Los Reyes from Connecticut. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

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