March 2023

There are several joints, tendons, and muscles that are found in each foot. When arthritis in the foot develops, it can affect mobility and the range of motion may be reduced. Common symptoms of arthritic feet can consist of swelling, pain, stiffness, and in severe cases, the joints may become deformed. There are three main types of arthritis that can affect the feet. One type is osteoarthritis (OA), which is gradual wear and tear as the aging process occurs. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is considered to be an autoimmune disease and is often accompanied by inflammation. It may cause the foot to eventually lose function. If an injury happens to the foot, post-traumatic arthritis may occur and can affect the cartilage between the joints. Arthritis may affect balance in the feet, possibly causing the patient to become unsteady. Managing arthritic feet may be done by engaging in low-impact activity, maintaining a moderate weight, and eating healthy foods. If you have foot pain, it is strongly suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose arthritis and offer the correct treatment solutions.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Robert Binder from Robert P. Binder, DPM. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

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

Many people experience foot pain for various reasons. Pregnant women may have swollen feet and heel pain as a result of the bodily changes that pregnancy causes. Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition where the pain worsens during the night, possibly interrupting high-quality sleep. Women who frequently wear high heels may be prone to developing Morton’s neuroma. This is an ailment that can happen when the toes are pressed together, and this can irritate the nerve between the third and fourth toes. The pain is often felt on the bottom of the toes, and on the ball of the foot. Unbearable pain may be a reason to have surgery, where the affected nerve is removed. Diabetic patients often experience foot pain as a result of elevated blood sugar levels. This can cause neuropathy, which is the inability to feel sensation, and it typically affects the feet. If you have foot pain for any reason, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can determine what the cause is, and offer correct treatment options.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. Robert Binder from Robert P. Binder, DPM. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

The area of the body that podiatrists treat are the feet, ankles, and lower legs. Common foot conditions can include plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, and diabetic foot wounds. Most podiatrists also perform foot surgery, which may include foot or ankle reconstruction. There are strict education requirements that must be completed to obtain a Doctorate in Podiatric Medicine. First, a bachelor’s degree, followed by a four-year podiatric medical school program. After medical school, a three-year residency must be completed, which provides hands-on learning in a hospital setting. If you are interested in pursuing a career in podiatry, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can answer questions and help you determine if podiatry is the right field for you.

If you are dealing with pain in your feet and ankles, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to contact Dr. Robert Binder from Robert P. Binder, DPM. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine who diagnoses and treats conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Your podiatrist may specialize in a certain field such as sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics, and diabetic care. Podiatrists have the ability to become board certified through training, clinical experience, and then taking an exam.

What Do Podiatrists Do?

On a daily basis, a podiatrist may perform the following activities:

• Diagnose foot ailments such as ulcers, tumors, fractures, etc.
• Use innovative methods to treat conditions
• Use corrective orthotics, casts, and strappings to correct deformities
• Correct walking patterns and balance
• Provide individual consultations to patients

It is very important that you take care of your feet. It’s easy to take having healthy feet for granted, however foot problems tend to be among the most common health conditions. Podiatrists can help diagnose and treat a variety of feet related conditions, so it is crucial that you visit one if you need assistance.

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

The feet are often taken for granted, and this includes choosing shoes that fit correctly. It is crucial that shoes are comfortable as they are tried on, and a break-in period is generally frowned upon. Many foot conditions occur as a result of wearing shoes that are too tight, often affecting the toes. These can include Morton’s neuroma, bunions, and corns. Relief is often found when shoes that are worn fit properly, and the conditions may gradually diminish. There are helpful tips when purchasing new shoes, including trying them on at the end of the day when the feet are at their largest. Many people think their feet are one size, however, all shoes are not constructed equally, and the size may vary slightly. Trying shoes and walking in them will help you to determine if the shoe is right for you. This can help to provide an easy fit, and blisters and calluses may be avoided. If you would like more information about how to choose the right shoe size, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can answer any questions you may have.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of Dr. Robert Binder from Robert P. Binder, DPM. Our doctor will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

• When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
• Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
• Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
• Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
• If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

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