Foot pain can sometimes be caused by rheumatoid arthritis or gout, each affecting the joints in different ways. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that often causes pain, swelling, and stiffness in multiple joints. The joints may feel warm, appear swollen, and become increasingly stiff, especially in the morning or after rest. Over time, joint shape may change, leading to deformities and difficulty walking. Gout typically presents as a sudden and intense attack of pain, often affecting the big toe. The joint may become red, hot, and extremely tender, sometimes developing overnight. This occurs due to a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joint. A podiatrist can help distinguish between these conditions through examination and testing. They can then coordinate care that may include medication, supportive footwear, and custom orthotics to protect the joints. If you have foot pain from rheumatoid arthritis or gout, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

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 Tanya R. Sellers-Hannibal, DPM of Maryland. 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 Owings Mills, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Swelling of the feet and ankles, also known as edema, occurs when excess fluid collects in the tissues. This may develop gradually or appear suddenly, causing the feet to look puffy, tight, or shiny. Shoes may feel tighter, and pressing on the skin may leave a temporary indentation. Swelling can be caused by standing or sitting for long periods, of time, injury, and pregnancy. Underlying conditions like circulation problems, heart disease, or kidney issues may also contribute. In addition, swelling may be linked to medications or inflammation in the foot or ankle joints. A podiatrist can help determine whether the swelling is related to a localized foot condition or part of a broader medical concern. Evaluation includes examining circulation, joint health, and skin condition. Treatment options include compression therapy, elevation, footwear recommendations, and targeted exercises to improve circulation. If you have persistent or unexplained swelling of the feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer appropriate relief and treatment tips.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Tanya R. Sellers-Hannibal, DPM of Maryland. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Owings Mills, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete's foot is a common fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet. It is caused by fungi that thrive in warm moist environments, such as locker rooms and sweaty shoes. This condition often appears between the toes, but can also spread to the soles and sides of the feet. Risk factors include poor foot hygiene, wearing tight footwear, and frequent exposure to damp surfaces. Symptoms include itching, burning, redness, peeling skin, and sometimes cracking or blistering. A podiatrist can diagnose the infection accurately, providing care advice and effective treatment options including antifungal medications. If you have symptoms of athlete’s foot, it  is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Tanya R. Sellers-Hannibal, DPM from Maryland.  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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

When the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, it can cause swelling, redness, and sharp pain with every step. Home care may help early, but ongoing discomfort often needs a minor in-office solution. One effective approach removes a narrow strip from the center portion of the nail. This creates space along the sides so the skin can heal without pressure. The procedure is quick, done with local numbing, and most patients return to normal activity soon after. Complications are uncommon when performed by a trained podiatrist. Proper trimming habits and shoe choices can also reduce future problems. Keeping the area clean and protected during healing helps lower risk of recurrence. If you have a persistent ingrown toenail, drainage, or signs of infection, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate care.

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 Tanya R. Sellers-Hannibal, DPM of Maryland. 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 Owings Mills, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.