Rheumatoid arthritis is a disease where the immune system attacks joints, causing swelling and pain. Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is a condition that affects connective tissue, leading to loose joints and fragile skin. Lupus is an autoimmune illness that can cause inflammation throughout the body, including the feet. In women with these conditions, foot pain is common and can make walking, standing, and daily tasks more difficult. Ongoing discomfort may limit activity and lower overall quality of life. A podiatrist can help manage symptoms with supportive care, custom orthotics, and footwear advice to improve comfort and stability. With proper treatment, many people can stay active and reduce pain over time. If foot pain is interfering with your routine, it is suggested that you seek care from 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 one of our doctors of Godoy Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctors 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 Wayne, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Broken toes occur when one or more of the small bones in the toes fracture due to trauma or excessive force. Common causes include a direct hit, such as stubbing the toe, or a hard object landing on it. Activities like dance or martial arts where shoes are not worn can also increase the risk of injury. Symptoms include pain, swelling, tenderness, difficulty walking, and discoloration where the toe may turn black and blue. Risk factors include high-impact activity, lack of wearing protective footwear, and previous injuries. A podiatrist can diagnose the fracture, provide stabilization, and guide proper healing. If you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer appropriate treatment solutions.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our doctors of Godoy Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctors 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 office located in Wayne, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.