Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, is an autoimmune disease that can affect the small joints in the feet and ankles. It causes inflammation, pain, and swelling, which can make walking difficult. Over time, RA can damage the joints, leading to deformities such as bunions, hammertoes, and collapsed arches. This can result in pain with every step, stiffness, and loss of mobility. Many people with RA also experience fatigue, which adds to the challenge of staying active. Supportive footwear, custom orthotics, and bracing can help relieve pressure on painful joints. Targeting stretching and exercises that improve strength and flexibility may also make walking easier. If RA is affecting your feet, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist who can recommend treatments to reduce discomfort and prevent further joint damage.

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 one of our podiatrists of Manhattan Footcare. Our doctors 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 offices located in Manhattan and Brooklyn, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Cracked heels become a common concern during winter due to several factors that contribute to dryness and skin damage. Indoor heating systems create a dry environment that reduces moisture in the skin, leading to increased roughness and cracks. Many individuals also neglect proper hydration during colder months, which can cause the skin to become less supple and more prone to fissures. Wearing hard-soled shoes without adequate cushioning places excessive pressure on the heels, further aggravating the problem. Additionally, nutritional deficiencies, particularly a lack of essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin E, zinc, and omega fatty acids, can weaken the skin barrier and impair healing. Cracked heels can be painful, causing difficulty in completing daily activities. If you have developed this condition, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment remedies, which may include prescription medicine.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Manhattan Footcare. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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

Implementing an insole program in the workplace can have a profound impact on both employee health and productivity. Many workers spend long hours on their feet, which can lead to foot pain, fatigue, and discomfort. By providing customized insoles, employers can help alleviate these issues, offering support and cushioning that promote proper alignment and reduce strain on the body. This leads to fewer injuries, less pain, and improved comfort throughout the workday. When employees feel better physically, their focus and efficiency increase, resulting in higher productivity. A well-designed insole program can also contribute to employee well-being, reducing the number of sick days and improving overall morale. Investing in foot health through insoles is a practical and effective way to enhance workplace performance while supporting long-term employee health. If you are an employer and you are interested in learning about an insole program that will benefit your employees, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

If you are experiencing discomfort in your feet and would like to try custom orthotics, contact one of our podiatrists from Manhattan Footcare. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Custom Orthotics?

Custom orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain. 

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Shoe inserts come in a wide variety and are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality, custom inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you're experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibility of using custom orthotics or shoe inserts. A podiatrist can determine which type of custom orthotic or shoe insert is right for you and help you take the first steps toward being pain-free.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Manhattan and Brooklyn, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.