What is Arthritis?

According to the American Podiatric Medical Association, arthritis is the swelling and inflammation of the cartilage and lining of the joints.  The feet are a very complex part of your body and contain 33 joints that could be affected by arthritis.  There are several causes associated with arthritis including heredity, injuries (especially those that have been ignored), bacterial and viral infections, some prescription and illicit drugs can induce arthritis. If you are experience any of the symptoms in your feet listed below you should see a podiatrist.

• Swelling in the joints
• Recurring pain or tenderness in any joints
• Redness or heat in a joint
• Limited motion in a joint
• Early morning stiffness
• Skin changes, including rashes or growths

There are several different types of arthritis.  Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis and is often referred to as "wear and tear" arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is another type of arthritis and may be the most severe.  Gout arthritis is caused by a build up of uric acid in the joints.  Psoriatic arthritis involves psoriasis, as it can affect the joints as well as the skin.  Traumatic arthritis is arthritis that is caused by an injury to a joint or joints.

There are several treatments for arthritis including physical therapy, exercise, and medication.  Biofreeze pain reliever can be purchased through our product store.  Its cold application reduces the pain and sensation associated while the cold and rewarming stimulates the healing of tissue. Foot functions may be controlled with shoe inserts or braces may be recommended.  Surgery may be used to replace damaged joints.  This will be used as a last resort. 

If you are experiencing pain in the joints of your feet that may be linked to arthritis, don't hesitate to make an appointment with a podiatrist.  Call our office at 419-423-1888 or visit our website to schedule an appointment.

Do You Deal with Foot Pain Every Morning?

Plantar Fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain and pain on the bottom of the foot.  The condition is caused by an inflammation of the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that runs from the heel to the toes.  Plantar Fasciitis is often worse in the mornings and may be a sharp, stabbing pain on the inside of the bottom of the heel.  The pain may subside during the day but can return after long periods of standing, walking, or getting up after long periods of sitting. 


Should I Call a Podiatrist?
If you experience any symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis, call a podiatrist and make an appointment.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar Fasciitis is more likely to occur in people with excessively flat or high arches.  Sudden weight gain, shoes with poor arch support, a tight Achilles tendon, and long distance running may also increase your risk of developing Plantar Fasciitis. 

What are Treatments for Plantar Fasciitis?

• Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) to reduce pain and inflammation
• Heel and foot stretching exercises
• Night splints to wear while sleeping to stretch the foot
• Resting as much as possible for at least a week
• Wearing shoes with good support and cushions

Other steps to relieve pain include:

• Apply ice to the painful area. Do this at least twice a day for 10 - 15 minutes, more often in the first couple of days.
• Try wearing a heel cup, felt pads in the heel area, or shoe inserts.
• Use night splints to stretch the injured fascia and allow it to heal.

If these treatments do not work, your health care provider may recommend:

• Wearing a boot cast, which looks like a ski boot, for 3-6 weeks. It can be removed for bathing.
• Custom-made shoe inserts (orthotics)
• Steroid shots or injections into the heel

Can Plantar Fasciitis be Prevented?
Plantar Fasciitis can be prevented by ensuring your Achilles tendon and calf muscle do not get too tight.  It is also important to wear shoes that properly support your feet.