December 2017

A disease involving the immune system in which the joints are inflamed is rheumatoid arthritis. Standing and walking may often become difficult, as these movements involve use of the joints. Recent research has shown that common treatments for this condition may include anti-inflammatory drugs or surgery if no other option is available. Occasionally the feet may produce symptoms indicative of rheumatoid arthritis, such as stiffness and pain in the ankle that spreads throughout the foot. It has been shown that there may be a link between higher body weight and this particular form of arthritis developing faster than other forms. Certain remedies may bring comfort, including choosing shoes that have proper arch support. Stretching may be another option, possibly relieving pain and providing joint mobility. Consult with your podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment if you think have symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.

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 Dr. Harold Sterling of Michigan. 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 Lansing, MI. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Many diabetics incur nerve damage, often making it difficult to feel sores, blisters, or cuts. Checking the feet nightly can be helpful in preventing infections; however, it may be difficult for the diabetic patient to check their feet due to arthritis, diminished eyesight or possible back problems. Having someone check the feet daily or using a small mirror may be beneficial in observing the soles of the feet. Symptoms to look for include any type of irritation, redness, or callus; additionally, paying extra attention to the toes and the ball of the foot is crucial in noticing foot ulcers. Moisturizing is necessary in preventing dry skin, which may cause cracked heels that can become infected. If an electric blanket is used, it may be wise to not use it because of reduced feeling in the feet. Additionally, ice packs can cause numbness in the feet and may not be recommended for this reason. Trimming the toenails is important to do with clippers that are designed for toenails, thereby preventing injuries to the foot. Please consult your podiatrist for advice in keeping your feet healthy

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Harold Sterling from Michigan. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Diabetics need to take proper care of their feet due to their condition. Diabetes often causes poor blood circulation and neuropathy, which causes sensation loss in the extremities and lower limbs. If a diabetic gets a blister on his or her foot, he or she may not even realize it exists. If left unchecked, a blister can become infected and potentially infect the rest of the foot; in worst cases, this may then require amputation. Prevention is key, so wearing well-fitted shoes, conducting everyday foot exams, maintaining proper foot care, and visiting a podiatrist every several months can all help prevent a foot ulcer. If you have a foot ulcer and are diabetic, it is recommended that you see a podiatrist who can provide proper care and attention to the wound.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Dr. Harold Sterling of Michigan. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often 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.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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

Stubbing your toe on a piece of furniture or dropping something on your foot may result in a painful toe fracture. Most fractures heal in 4 to 6 weeks with proper medical care from a podiatrist. The toe may swell and bruise, and it can be difficult to walk on. During the first few days, elevating your foot can be beneficial in reducing pain and swelling. Applying an ice pack and resting the toe by limiting standing and walking can further aid in the recovery. An X-ray may be necessary to determine the severity. Normal activities can be resumed once you can wear normal footwear and can walk around without pain. Please consult a podiatrist for treatment if you have pain in your toe, or feel that your toe might be broken. While some fractures may not cause excessive pain or seem harmful, they can become problematic or not heal properly.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Harold Sterling from Michigan. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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