Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, is a long-term autoimmune disease that can affect joints throughout the body. An autoimmune disease occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues. RA often begins in the small joints of the hands and feet, and more than 90 percent of people with the disease eventually develop foot or ankle symptoms. In the joints, RA causes inflammation that can damage cartilage and weaken the tissues that provide support. Foot and ankle symptoms may include pain, swelling, and stiffness. Unlike some other forms of arthritis, RA commonly affects the same joints on both sides of the body.

As rheumatoid arthritis progresses, it can affect several areas of the foot and ankle. Ankle involvement may make stairs or inclines difficult, while advanced disease can make ordinary walking painful. In the middle of the foot, weakened ligaments can cause the arch to collapse and change the shape of the foot. RA can also contribute to bunions, claw toes, and pain under the ball of the foot. These structural changes may create areas of abnormal pressure and make wearing shoes uncomfortable. Joint stiffness can also increase as cartilage damage progresses, further limiting comfortable foot movement.

A podiatrist can evaluate how rheumatoid arthritis is affecting the feet and ankles by examining areas of tenderness, joint flexibility, and changes in foot shape. Imaging may also be needed to assess the bones or surrounding soft tissues. Treatment for foot symptoms depends on the location of pain and the amount of joint damage. Professional options include custom orthotics or other supportive devices to decrease pressure and improve comfort. If rheumatoid arthritis is causing persistent foot or ankle pain that affects your mobility, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

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 Kenneth Donovan, DPM of Advanced Care Foot and Ankle. 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 Charleston, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Toe walking means a child walks on their tiptoes without letting their heels touch the ground. It can happen some, most, or all of the time. Toe walking can be part of normal development, and many children stop doing it between ages two and seven. However, continued toe walking deserves attention, especially when it affects balance, comfort, or the way a child moves. When there is no clear medical cause, it is called idiopathic toe walking. In a small number of children, toe walking can be linked to conditions that affect the brain, nerves, or muscles. These include cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, and autism spectrum disorder. A podiatrist can assess your child’s feet, legs, and walking pattern. They can also check muscle strength and flexibility to determine whether further evaluation is needed.

Frequent toe walking can be associated with tight calf muscles, which connect with the heel. Tight calves can make it harder for a child to place the heels flat on the ground when standing or walking. A podiatrist can help identify whether tight muscles, foot structure, or another concern is contributing to toe walking. This evaluation also helps determine whether the child’s walking pattern is changing or causing problems with everyday activities. Treatment options may include regular monitoring and supportive footwear.

Parents should seek professional advice when toe walking is apparent mainly on one side or if it begins suddenly after a child previously walked with their heels down. An exam also may be needed if the heels are prevented from touching the ground while standing. Attention is important when a child has stiff legs, unusual movements, or pain. A podiatrist can monitor changes in walking and recommend treatment when necessary. If your child exhibits toe walking on a regular basis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Kenneth Donovan, DPM of Advanced Care Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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

Cracked heels develop when the skin around the heel becomes dry, thickened, and less flexible. As pressure is placed on the heel while standing or walking, the skin may split and form small cracks. These openings are also known as heel fissures. Cracked heels can affect anyone, but certain factors may increase the risk. Spending long periods standing, wearing footwear that does not support the heel, and having very dry skin can contribute to the problem. At first, heel cracks may be mainly a cosmetic concern. As they deepen, however, they can become painful and interfere with comfortable walking.

The skin around a cracked heel may appear hard, rough, or thick. Some people develop deeper fissures that cause pain when weight is placed on the foot. More serious cracks may bleed or create an opening where bacteria can enter the skin. This can increase the risk of infection. Certain medical conditions may also make cracked heels more likely or increase the chance of complications. People with diabetes or poor circulation should have foot changes professionally evaluated, because wounds may require specialized attention. Persistent heel pain, bleeding, or signs of infection should be examined to determine the severity of the problem and identify contributing factors.

A podiatrist can evaluate cracked heels and determine why the skin continues to split. During an examination, the podiatrist can assess the damaged skin and check for signs of infection or other foot problems. Professional treatment may include carefully reducing areas of thickened skin and providing care for deeper heel fissures. A podiatrist can also assess foot structure and pressure patterns that may contribute to recurring cracks. Treatment is based on the condition of the skin and the patient’s overall foot health. If painful, deep, or recurring cracked heels are affecting your comfort or ability to walk, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Kenneth Donovan, DPM from Advanced Care Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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

An ingrown toenail is a common foot condition that occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin. This often affects the big toe and can lead to discomfort and inflammation if not addressed early. The condition develops gradually and may begin with mild irritation before progressing into more noticeable pain. Ingrown toenails are frequently linked to improper nail care or external pressure on the toes. Understanding how this condition forms helps individuals take preventive steps and maintain proper foot health.

Several causes contribute to the development of an ingrown toenail. Poorly fitting shoes that crowd the toes place continuous pressure on the nail, forcing it to grow into the skin. Improper nail trimming is another leading factor, especially when nails are cut too short or rounded at the edges, instead of straight across. Repetitive stress from activities such as running or prolonged standing can also increase risk. In some cases, natural nail shape or inherited traits make certain individuals more prone to this condition.

Symptoms of an ingrown toenail often begin with localized pain along the nail edge. As the condition progresses, redness and swelling may develop in the surrounding skin. The area can become tender to the touch and uncomfortable when wearing shoes or walking. In more advanced cases, infection may occur, leading to increased swelling, warmth, and drainage. Early recognition of these symptoms is important to prevent worsening discomfort and complications.

Risk factors include wearing tight footwear, improper grooming habits, excessive sweating, and activities that place repeated pressure on the toes. Individuals with curved nails or previous nail injuries may also face a higher likelihood of recurrence. Proper foot care, including wearing well-fitting shoes and maintaining correct trimming techniques, can reduce risk. Treatment may involve relieving pressure, addressing inflammation, and preventing infection. If you have an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Kenneth Donovan, DPM of Advanced Care Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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