Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints. It often affects the smaller toe joints first, leading to tenderness, swelling, and stiffness that can gradually spread to the ankles. As inflammation progresses, the joints may weaken and become painful during daily activities. Causes include an overactive immune response and risk factors include family history, age, and smoking. When rheumatoid arthritis involves the feet and ankles, walking and balance can become difficult. A podiatrist can help by providing custom orthotics, footwear guidance, and supportive treatments that ease pressure and improve joint function. If your ankles are stiff or swollen, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you relief solutions, helping you to manage this condition.

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 Elie C. Daniel, DPM of Illinois. 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 offices located in Princeton, Peru, and Mendota, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Elderly foot care is important for maintaining comfort, mobility, and overall well-being. Keeping feet dry and clean helps prevent infections and skin problems. Maintaining nail health by trimming nails straight across reduces the risk of ingrown nails and discomfort. Wearing the right shoes provides support, prevents falls, and protects sensitive skin. Good circulation is encouraged through gentle movement and elevating the feet when resting. Additionally, staying hydrated helps keep the skin soft and healthy. A podiatrist can identify concerns early, provide specialized treatments, and offer guidance that supports long-term foot health. If you or a loved one needs expert foot care, it is suggested that you schedule a podiatric appointment today to maintain comfort, safety, and independence.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Elie C. Daniel, DPM from Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Princeton, Peru, and Mendota, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Diabetes can quietly change the health of your feet in many ways. Poor circulation and nerve damage can cause numbness, tingling, or burning sensations that make it hard to feel pain or temperature changes. This loss of sensitivity increases the risk of unnoticed injuries that may develop into open sores, known as foot ulcers. Skin and nail changes are also common, including dryness, thick nails, fungal infections, or even a gradual shift in foot shape, such as a collapsed arch known as rocker-bottom deformity. Type 1 diabetes tends to affect circulation earlier, while type 2 often brings slower but progressive nerve and tissue changes. Both can lead to serious complications, if left untreated. Regular foot checks, proper footwear, and prompt attention to any wounds are essential. If you have diabetes, and notice changes in your feet, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious condition.

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 Elie C. Daniel, DPM from Illinois. 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 offices located in Princeton, Peru, and Mendota, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Toe stretches help keep feet flexible, improve circulation, and ease tension from long periods of standing or wearing cramped shoes. Here are three effective examples that can make a difference when done regularly. For the toe extension stretch, sit with one leg crossed over the other, gently pull your toes back toward your shin, and hold for 10 seconds. This loosens tight muscles and relieves strain on the arch. In the toe splay exercise, spread your toes apart as wide as possible, hold briefly, and then relax. Repeat several times to strengthen the small muscles that support balance and stability. For the towel scrunch, place a towel on the floor and use your toes to grab and pull it toward you. This strengthens the muscles in the feet and helps improve coordination. If foot stiffness or pain persists despite stretching, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for evaluation and tailored treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Elie C. Daniel, DPM of Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Princeton, Peru, and Mendota, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.