Foot arthritis develops when inflammation or damage affects the joints in the feet, causing pain and difficulty moving comfortably. Because the feet support body weight with every step, joint problems can interfere with walking and everyday activities. Common symptoms include stiffness, tenderness, and pain that may worsen with movement. Foot arthritis can affect the toes, midfoot, or ankle, depending on the type and severity. 

Osteoarthritis is a common type of foot arthritis that develops as protective cartilage gradually wears down. This process allows bones to rub against each other, leading to discomfort and stiffness. Previous injuries, repetitive stress, and abnormal foot structure increase the risk. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the joint lining, causing inflammation that may affect both feet. Psoriatic arthritis is another inflammatory condition associated with psoriasis. It can cause painful, swollen toes and inflammation where tendons attach to bones. Family history and immune system activity may contribute to these conditions.

Foot arthritis makes climbing stairs, standing for long periods and walking increasingly uncomfortable. Osteoarthritis often causes pain during activity, while rheumatoid arthritis may produce morning stiffness and symptoms in several joints. Psoriatic arthritis can cause entire toes to swell, sometimes creating a sausage-like appearance. Supportive footwear and activity adjustments may help reduce pressure on painful joints in the feet. Early evaluation is important because different forms of arthritis require different treatment approaches.

A podiatrist will review your symptoms, examine your feet, and assess joint movement. X-rays may reveal joint damage, while blood tests or other evaluations help identify inflammatory arthritis. Treatment options include anti-inflammatory medication, custom orthotics, or recommendations for managing joint stress. Severe joint damage may require surgical treatment. If you have symptoms of foot arthritis, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who will help you to manage this condition.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Theresa Brown, DPM from Essie M.B. Smith Foot Clinic. 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 Montgomery, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Heel pain can stop an athlete from training, competing, or moving comfortably. The location of the pain can provide a clue about its cause. Pain under the heel is frequently linked to plantar fasciitis, which is irritation of the tissue that supports the arch. Pain at the back of the heel also can involve the Achilles tendon or a fluid-filled sac called a bursa. Repeated impact can cause a heel-bone stress fracture. Sudden increases in training, hard playing surfaces, and wearing shoes that lack proper support can raise the risk of these problems.

Symptoms differ based on the injured area. Plantar fasciitis usually causes sharp pain with the first steps after rest, while an Achilles problem can hurt during running or jumping. A stress fracture can cause pain that becomes stronger with activity and may continue at rest. Because several conditions produce similar symptoms, athletes should avoid returning to full activity before the cause is identified. Continuing to train through pain can worsen tissue damage, change the way the athlete moves, and place added strain on other parts of the foot or ankle.

A podiatrist can examine the heel, review the athlete’s training pattern, and assess foot movement. X-rays can reveal some bone problems, while other imaging tests can identify a stress fracture or soft-tissue injury that is difficult to see. Treatment depends on the diagnosis and severity. A podiatrist can recommend temporary activity changes, supportive shoes, or custom orthotics to improve pressure distribution. Treatment can also include immobilization to protect an injured area. Surgery is reserved for severe injuries or problems that do not improve with other care. The podiatrist can guide a gradual return to sport and address training or shoe factors that could contribute to another injury. If you have heel pain after exercise or sports activity, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Theresa Brown, DPM of Essie M.B. Smith Foot Clinic. 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 office located in Montgomery, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar fasciitis  develops when the plantar fascia becomes irritated and causes heel pain. This strong band of tissue runs along the bottom of the foot and helps support the arch. Symptoms often include sharp heel pain with the first steps after waking or sitting. Some people also notice aching after standing or walking for long periods.

Several factors can contribute to plantar fasciitis. Wearing unsupportive footwear every day may place repeated stress on the plantar fascia. Shoes with worn soles, poor arch support, or limited cushioning may not provide enough protection during daily activities. Tight shoes can also affect comfort and walking patterns. Other risk factors include increased activity, prolonged standing, and certain foot structures.

Routine footwear can have a long-term impact when it does not match your foot's needs. Continually wearing shoes that lack support may contribute to repeated strain and discomfort. Changing shoes regularly and choosing comfortable footwear with appropriate support helps reduce unnecessary stress. A podiatrist can also evaluate your foot structure, walking pattern, and symptoms. Treatment may include activity changes, supportive footwear, or custom orthotics, when appropriate.

When plantar fasciitis causes ongoing pain, a podiatrist will first examine the foot and discuss your symptoms and daily activities. Imaging tests may be recommended when another condition needs to be ruled out. Treatment focuses on reducing irritation and supporting healing. Follow-up visits allow the podiatrist to monitor progress and adjust care as needed. Early attention can help prevent persistent heel pain from interfering with daily life. This can make returning to activities more manageable and comfortable. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat plantar fasciitis.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Theresa Brown, DPM  from Essie M.B. Smith Foot Clinic. 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 Montgomery, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot blisters are fluid-filled pockets that form under the skin and can make every step uncomfortable. Friction is a frequent cause, especially when shoes are too tight or rub the same area repeatedly. The clear liquid inside most blisters is called serum, which comes from nearby tissues after the skin is injured. Blood blisters contain blood instead. Friction blisters are usually painful and can interfere with walking, exercise, or work. Although many blisters result from burns, allergies and infections can also cause blistering on the skin.

The appearance and symptoms of a blister can offer clues about its cause. Most blisters are round or oval and contain fluid beneath the skin. Some are painful, while others can itch or cause little discomfort. Blisters linked to infection can look different and may occur with other symptoms. Increasing redness, swelling, or worsening pain around a blister can signal infection. Oozing blood or pus is another warning sign. Blisters with an unknown cause or those that are very painful deserve professional evaluation, especially when they keep returning.

A podiatrist can examine foot blisters to determine what is causing them and whether infection is present. The evaluation can also identify pressure points and areas where shoes are rubbing the skin. For a large or painful blister, a podiatrist can drain it safely and protect the area from infection. A podiatrist can also recommend shoe changes or padding to reduce repeated friction and pressure. Patients with recurring blisters can benefit from an evaluation of foot structure and how their shoes fit. Addressing the source of repeated rubbing can help protect vulnerable areas of skin. If you have symptoms of blisters, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact Theresa Brown, DPM of Essie M.B. Smith Foot Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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