Arthritis

FAMILY MEDICINE AND PODIATRY SERVICES IN PHOENIX, AZ

Arthritis services offered in Phoenix and Sun City, AZ

A podiatrist may greatly help you if you are experiencing discomfort or pain due to conditions such as arthritis, heel pain, hammertoes, bunions, ingrown toenails, corns, calluses, fungal nails, or athlete’s foot, to name a few. At Prestige Medical Care in Phoenix, Arizona, Carla Aldaz, MSN, FNP, ANCC-BC, and Devin Bland, DPM, FACFAS, DABPM, provide outstanding arthritis care in addition to podiatry and family medicine services. Call the office to schedule a visit or request an appointment online today.

Arthritis Q&A

What causes arthritis in the feet?

Many factors can play a role in the cause of arthritic feet, including carrying excess weight and obesity, aging, and family history or genetic connections to arthritis.

To help prevent issues with the feet, you should:

Examine feet daily
Keep feet clean
Routinely moisturize feet
Keep toenails appropriately trimmed

Be sure to wear socks daily and inspect shoes for anything that may cause discomfort.

How do you treat arthritis in the feet?

If you’re experiencing discomfort or pain due to one or more forms of arthritis, consider over-the-counter pain medication and investing in comfortable footwear. Pain medication coupled with top-of-the-line comfort footwear is an excellent way to ease the pain that often comes with arthritis.

If you carry excess weight, setting a weight loss goal is also recommended to ease some of the pressure on your feet and stay as active as possible.

Applying heat or ice to the affected area is another way to calm any discomfort you may experience. It’s essential to do research and see whether inserts may be beneficial for you.

General foot care is also recommended, like pampering and maintaining the feet well. Lastly, if necessary, you should seek professional advice and learn about potential surgery options.

Are there different types of foot arthritis?

Conditions affecting the feet due to complications with arthritis can take many forms, including:

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis typically affects the joint connecting your big toe to your foot, though it can also be found in the midfoot or ankle region.

Rheumatoid arthritis

Unlike osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis typically affects both feet and deals with the same joints on each foot.

Psoriatic arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis causes sausage-like swelling in the toes.

Ankylosing spondylitis

Ankylosing spondylitis can lead to plantar fasciitis and pain in the Achilles tendon.

Gout

Gout, which generally affects the big toe, is comprised of needle-like crystals that trigger inflammation in the joints.

For an official diagnosis and more information on treatment options, consult a Prestige Medical Care expert podiatrist. Call the office to schedule a consultation, or request an appointment online at your earliest convenience.