Arthritis in the ankle is not as common as in other joints, so it often deserves a closer look. When there is no past injury to explain the damage, it may signal an underlying condition rather than simple wear and tear. One example is haemochromatosis, a condition where the body stores too much iron, which can build up and affect joint health, over time. When only one ankle joint is involved, gout, a painful arthritis caused by uric acid crystals, is often a more likely cause than other crystal-related conditions. If infection is present, bacteria are usually responsible, including certain sexually transmitted strains. Tuberculosis is less likely in this joint. When several joints become inflamed, ankle involvement may point toward specific inflammatory conditions rather than classic rheumatoid arthritis. These patterns help guide diagnosis and care. If you are experiencing ankle pain, swelling, or stiffness without a clear reason, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Brondon Foot and Ankle. 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 Centerville, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Blisters, calluses, and cracked heels are common foot conditions that can cause significant discomfort during daily activities. Blisters form when friction from shoes or repeated movement causes fluid to collect under the skin. They may appear as raised, tender areas that feel sensitive when walking. Callouses develop when the skin thickens in response to pressure or friction, often on the ball of the foot or heel. While they protect the skin, they can become painful if they grow too thick. Cracked heels occur when dry skin splits along the heel, sometimes forming deep fissures that may sting or bleed. These problems are often linked to prolonged standing, poorly fitting shoes, dry skin, or uneven pressure on the foot. A podiatrist can evaluate the foot to determine why these conditions are developing and whether underlying issues, such as foot structure or walking patterns, are contributing to the pain. Treatment may include professional skin care, supportive footwear, and targeted exercises that improve pressure balance. If you have ongoing foot pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Brondon Foot and Ankle. 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 Centerville, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Tinea pedis, commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet, especially the areas between the toes. The infection often causes itching, redness, peeling skin, and sometimes cracking or burning. The fungus grows best in warm, moist environments such as sweaty shoes, locker rooms, and public showers. Research shows that tinea pedis occurs more frequently in males than in females. One reason is that men often spend long hours in closed shoes for work, sports, or daily activities, which creates the damp conditions that fungi prefer. Men also tend to sweat more from the feet, which further encourages fungal growth. Repeated use of shared athletic spaces may also increase exposure. Good foot hygiene, wearing dry socks, and breathable footwear can help reduce risk. When foot itching, scaling, or irritation does not improve, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one of our podiatrists from Brondon Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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

Toenail fungus is a common condition that often begins quietly. You may first notice a small white or yellow spot under the nail. Over time, the nail can become thick, brittle, discolored, and difficult to trim. Some nails may lift from the nail bed or develop a crumbly texture. Warm, moist environments inside shoes create an ideal setting for fungal growth. People who use public pools, share nail tools, or have diabetes are at higher risk. Treatment depends on the severity of the infection. Mild cases may respond to prescription topical medications applied daily. More advanced infections often require oral antifungal medicine to reach the fungus beneath the nail. In certain situations, partial nail removal may be recommended to allow better healing. Early care improves the chance of clearing the infection and preventing spread to other nails. If you notice persistent toenail changes, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Brondon Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

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