Foot and ankle osteoarthritis develops when the smooth cushioning within a joint gradually wears down, causing bones to move less comfortably against each other. This can lead to stiffness, swelling, aching, and reduced movement that may become more noticeable during a workday. Jobs that require standing, walking, climbing, or repeated lifting can become especially difficult, but even desk work may be uncomfortable when getting up after sitting for long periods of time. Some people begin changing how they walk to avoid pain, which can create strain in other areas. A podiatrist can assess which joints are affected and recommend treatment to improve comfort and function. Care may include supportive footwear guidance, custom inserts, bracing, targeted exercises, or other treatments based on symptom severity. Managing symptoms early may help you stay more active and productive at work. If foot or ankle joint pain is affecting your job, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Richard P. Jacoby, DPM from Extremity Health Centers. 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 one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Buckeye, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar warts are small growths that develop on the bottom of the foot after the skin is infected with the human papillomavirus, also called HPV. These warts often appear on weight-bearing areas, such as the heel or ball of the foot. They may feel like stepping on a pebble or rough surface while walking. The skin can look thickened or grainy, sometimes with tiny black dots that are clotted blood vessels inside the wart. Plantar warts may cause discomfort when pressure is applied and can spread, if left untreated. The virus commonly enters through small cuts or cracks in the skin. It is often picked up in warm, moist environments, such as locker rooms, pools, or shared showers. A podiatrist can identify whether the lesion is a wart or another skin condition and recommend the most effective treatment. Care may include topical medication, removal procedures, or other treatments to reduce pain and prevent spreading. If you have plantar warts, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Richard P. Jacoby, DPM from Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Buckeye, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Flexible flat feet occur when the arch appears low while standing, but becomes more visible when the foot is lifted or not bearing weight. Some people have no symptoms, while others experience fatigue, foot pain, or discomfort during activity. In certain cases, targeted exercise can help improve support and movement by strengthening the muscles that influence foot position and overall lower body function. Treatment is not always limited to the foot itself, since weakness in the legs or hips may also affect alignment and how pressure moves through the feet during walking. A podiatrist can evaluate gait, foot structure, and muscle function to determine whether strengthening exercises may be helpful as part of treatment. Supportive care may also include shoe guidance or custom inserts when needed. If you have painful or symptomatic flat feet, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for appropriate relief and management solutions.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Richard P. Jacoby, DPM from Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Buckeye, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

High heels can place excess pressure on the front of the foot and alter the natural alignment of the body. This shift in weight may lead to pain in the ball of the foot, toes, or heel, especially after long periods of wear. The foot may appear crowded in the toe box, and some people notice redness, swelling, or the development of calluses. Over time, wearing high heels can contribute to conditions such as bunions and hammertoes, or place strain on the Achilles tendon. High heels may also cause instability, increasing the risk of ankle sprains. Contributing factors include heel height, narrow shoe design, and frequent use without supportive features. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure and gait to identify stress points and recommend appropriate care. Treatment may include shoe modifications, padding, and targeted exercises to improve strength and flexibility. If you have foot pain related to high heels, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for relief and prevention tips.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Richard P. Jacoby, DPM from Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Buckeye, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.