Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory joint condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy joint tissues. When this disorder affects the feet, it can lead to progressive inflammation that damages joints, ligaments, and surrounding structures. Symptoms include persistent pain, swelling, stiffness, and tenderness within the forefoot and toes. Over time, visible changes in appearance may occur as bone damage develops and toes begin curling or shifting from their natural position. These structural changes may alter foot shape and may affect shoe size or comfort when walking. Risk factors include genetic susceptibility and autoimmune disease patterns. A podiatrist can monitor joint health, reduce pressure on affected areas, and recommend supportive care. If you have symptoms of RA in your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

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 Peter Siroka, DPM of Connecticut. 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 Stamford, CT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Heel pain occurs when the tissues surrounding the heel become irritated or inflamed. It often appears as a sharp or aching sensation when walking or standing, and may worsen after periods of rest. Several risk factors increase the likelihood of heel pain, including middle age, physically active lifestyles, excess body weight, pregnancy, and occupations that require standing for long periods of time. Wearing poorly fitted shoes with limited cushioning or support can also place stress on the heel. Direct injury or repeated strain to the heel area may further contribute to discomfort. A podiatrist can evaluate the cause, recommend supportive footwear, and provide treatments that relieve pain. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Peter Siroka, DPM 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 office located in Stamford, CT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Morton’s neuroma affects the forefoot, most commonly between the third and fourth toes. It develops when the digital nerve becomes thickened or fibrotic, leading to irritation and discomfort. Symptoms often include burning, tingling, numbness, or the sensation of stepping on a pebble inside the shoe. This painful condition is frequently caused by wearing tight or narrow footwear, such as high heels, or activities that place repeated pressure on the forefoot. Risk factors include foot shape, high-impact exercise, and prolonged periods in constrictive shoes. A podiatrist can diagnose Morton’s neuroma, recommend custom orthotics, suggest appropriate footwear, and provide treatment to reduce pain. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat what may be going on.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Peter Siroka, DPM of Connecticut. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

A pinky toe corn is a small area of thickened skin that develops due to repeated friction or pressure on the outer part of the smallest toe. This protective buildup forms when the skin responds to irritation, often from wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes. Common causes include narrow footwear, high heels, toe deformities, and abnormal foot mechanics that increase pressure. Risk factors include hammertoes, bunions, excessive walking, and improper shoe sizing. Symptoms may include tenderness, a hard raised bump, redness, and discomfort when wearing shoes. A podiatrist can safely remove the corn, address underlying structural issues, and recommend proper footwear or orthotics. If you have developed a corn anywhere on your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment and prevention tips.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Peter Siroka, DPM of Connecticut. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

• Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
• Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
• Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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