November 2024

For those with rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, proper foot care is essential to manage pain and prevent mobility issues. RA often affects the joints in the feet, causing swelling, stiffness, and pain that can worsen without special attention. Consistent and gentle foot exercises help maintain joint flexibility while wearing supportive footwear minimizes stress on sensitive areas. Look for shoes with cushioned soles, wide toe boxes, and arch support to ease pressure on joints. Daily inspection of the feet is important for spotting redness, sores, or deformities early, as RA can make skin and nails more prone to damage. Applying moisturizer helps prevent dry skin and cracks. If you have RA and have pain or deformities like bunions that worsen, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can recommend custom orthotics or special footwear adjustments, providing relief and improving mobility.

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 Dr. Thomas Tran of Southwestern Foot & Ankle Associates, P.C.. 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 Frisco, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ingrown toenails, a common foot issue, occur when the nail's edge grows into the surrounding skin, leading to redness, swelling, and pain. This condition often affects the big toe and can result from improper nail trimming, wearing tight footwear, or injury. In cases where pain intensifies, or infection signs like pus and increased swelling appear, it is wise to consult a podiatrist. A podiatrist can assess the severity and recommend treatments based on individual needs. They may lift the nail to relieve pressure, or in more severe cases, remove part of the nail to prevent further issues. They might also suggest preventive measures, such as proper nail-cutting techniques, footwear advice, and orthotics if foot structure contributes to the problem. If you suffer from an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you get prompt podiatric care to alleviate pain and help prevent recurring ingrown nails and potential infections.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Thomas Tran of Southwestern Foot & Ankle Associates, P.C.. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

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

Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue connecting the heel to the toes, causing stabbing pain in the heel, especially upon waking or after long periods of inactivity. Common in runners, people with high arches or flat feet, and those who stand for extended hours, it affects a broad range of active adults and older individuals. Stretching and exercises are essential in podiatric treatment, helping to reduce pain, improve flexibility, and support recovery. Recommended stretches include calf and foot stretches, such as pulling the toes back to elongate the plantar fascia. Strengthening exercises focus on the muscles of the foot and lower leg, like toe curls or using a towel to pull the toes gently toward the body. Consistent stretching, particularly before and after activity, can improve symptoms and prevent recurrence. If you have plantar fasciitis, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist for treatment, which will likely involve stretches and exercises.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Thomas Tran  from Southwestern Foot & Ankle Associates, P.C.. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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

A sprained ankle occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle are stretched or torn, often due to sudden twists, falls, or awkward landings. This common injury can happen during sports, physical activities, or even everyday movements. Symptoms typically include swelling, bruising, pain, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot. Initial treatment often includes rest and elevation, which can help reduce swelling and pain. However, if you experience severe pain, significant swelling, or have difficulty walking, it is important to seek medical attention. A podiatrist may recommend imaging tests to assess the severity of the sprain and could suggest a walking boot, targeted exercises, or even surgery, in more severe cases. If you are experiencing persistent symptoms or difficulty moving your ankle, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a thorough evaluation and tailored treatment options.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Thomas Tran from Southwestern Foot & Ankle Associates, P.C.. 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 Frisco, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.