Items filtered by date: March 2025

Arthritis in the feet affects many people, with two major types being osteoarthritis, OA, and rheumatoid arthritis, RA. OA typically occurs due to wear and tear on the joints over time, while RA is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the joints. Symptoms of both types of arthritis include pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility in the feet, often making it difficult to walk or stand for long periods ot time. A podiatrist can help manage arthritis by providing treatment to alleviate pain and improve function. For OA, they may recommend custom orthotics to provide support and reduce pressure on the joints. In cases of RA, a podiatrist might work with other healthcare providers to manage inflammation with medications, and suggest foot exercises to maintain mobility. They can also offer advice on footwear, stretching routines, and, in more severe cases, consider surgical options. If you have arthritis in your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and mangement solutions.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact William Beaton, DPM from Advanced Podiatry and Wound Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in St. Petersburg, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A loose toenail often develops gradually, but may also occur suddenly due to trauma. The toenail is attached to the nail bed beneath it, and when this connection weakens, the nail may partially or completely detach. Trauma, such as dropping a heavy object on the toe or repeated pressure from ill-fitting footwear, can cause a toenail to loosen. A fungal infection may also lead to separation of the toenail from the nail bed, often accompanied by thickening, discoloration, and debris under the nail. Other causes of loose toenails include psoriasis, allergic reactions to nail products, hyperthyroidism, or side effects from certain medication. It is important to avoid pulling a loose toenail off, as this can lead to infection or improper regrowth. A podiatrist can assess the cause, trim away damaged portions, provide treatment for infections, and, if necessary, remove the nail to allow for healthy regrowth. If you have problems with loose toenails, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact William Beaton, DPM of Advanced Podiatry and Wound Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in St. Petersburg, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.