Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is a long-term inflammatory condition that affects children under age 16. It causes the immune system to mistakenly attack the lining of the joints, leading to swelling, stiffness, and pain. Although many people think of arthritis affecting the hands or knees, the feet and ankles are commonly involved in children with this condition. When these joints are affected, walking, running, and daily activities can become difficult. Studies show that problems in the lower limbs often cause the greatest limits in movement and comfort. Children may experience ankle or foot pain, inflammation surrounding the tendons, or develop flat feet that place extra strain on the joints. When the disease is more active, these symptoms can greatly affect quality of life. Early care is important to protect growing joints. If your child has foot or ankle pain related to arthritis, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can evaluate the problem and recommend appropriate treatment.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact the foot specialists from Affiliates in Foot Care, P.C.. Our doctors 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 our office located in Woburn, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Freiberg disease is a congenital foot-related condition that affects the metatarsal bones in the forefoot, most commonly near the base of the second toe. This disorder occurs when the bone tissue gradually weakens due to reduced blood supply, which may lead to joint damage over time. As the condition progresses, it may contribute to arthritis within the affected joint. Symptoms include forefoot pain, swelling, stiffness, and discomfort while walking or placing pressure on the ball of the foot. Causes may involve abnormal bone development, repetitive stress, or structural foot imbalance. Risk factors include certain foot shapes and prolonged pressure on the forefoot. A podiatrist can evaluate the condition and guide treatment. If your child has been born with this condition, it is suggested that you include a podiatrist on your healthcare team for expert management techniques.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with the foot specialists from Affiliates in Foot Care, P.C.. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Running shoes play an important role in protecting feet and supporting a comfortable stride during exercise. Well-fitted shoes should provide proper cushioning to absorb impact and reduce stress on joints and muscles. Good arch support and reliable stability help maintain balance and reduce the risk of strain or overuse injuries. Breathable materials allow air flow that helps keep feet cool and dry during long runs. Additionally, the toe box should feel roomy while the heel remains secure to prevent slipping and friction. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure and gait to recommend foot-friendly shoe features that match individual needs. If you experience foot pain after running, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions and guide you on the correct shoes to wear.

If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact the foot specialists from Affiliates in Foot Care, P.C.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.

• Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
• Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
• Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.

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

Sever’s disease is a common cause of pediatric heel pain that occurs when the growth plate at the back of the heel becomes inflamed. It typically affects children and adolescents during periods of rapid growth, especially among children who participate in running and jumping activities. The condition develops when repetitive stress and tight calf muscles place excess strain on the heel bone. Symptoms often include tenderness, swelling, and pain with deep pressure at the back of the heel, which may worsen during or after activity. Risk factors include high activity levels, wearing improper footwear, and growth spurts. A podiatrist can provide evaluation, stretching guidance, and supportive orthotics. If your active child has heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and offer relief solutions.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see the foot specialists from Affiliates in Foot Care, P.C.. Our doctors can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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

Pregnancy brings many physical changes, and the feet are often affected in surprising ways. As the body adapts to a growing baby, hormonal shifts loosen ligaments, which can lead to an unsteady gait and reduced balance. Increased body weight places added pressure on the feet, contributing to discomfort and fatigue. Swelling is also common due to fluid retention and changes in circulation, making shoes feel tight and restrictive. Many women notice increased foot width as the arches flatten and ligaments stretch, sometimes resulting in a permanent change in shoe size. Wearing supportive footwear, elevating the feet, and maintaining gentle activity can help reduce discomfort. If symptoms persist or worsen, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot and ankle conditions, providing foot relief for a comfortable pregnancy.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with the foot specialists from Affiliates in Foot Care, P.C.. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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