Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, manifests through subtle yet telling signs, especially in its early stages. A common indicator is persistent joint stiffness, particularly in the mornings or after periods of inactivity. Accompanying this stiffness is often joint pain and swelling, which can gradually worsen over time. RA does not discriminate, affecting various joints throughout the body, including those in the feet. In fact, the feet are commonly among the first areas affected by RA. The condition can lead to inflammation in the joints of the feet, causing pain, swelling, and difficulty with mobility. Over time, RA may cause deformities such as bunions, hammertoes, or joint collapse in severe cases. If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms in your feet, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer you effective management strategies.

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 Ronald Pieroni, DPM of Bolingbrook Foot and Ankle Center. 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 Bolingbrook, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Poor foot circulation can silently wreak havoc on your health, manifesting in various troubling symptoms. One of the most common indicators is cold feet, often accompanied by numbness or tingling sensations. Swelling in the feet and ankles, particularly after prolonged periods of sitting or standing, may also signify compromised circulation. Additionally, you may notice changes in skin color, with the feet appearing pale or bluish. These symptoms can interfere with daily activities and diminish your quality of life. Several factors contribute to poor foot circulation, including underlying health conditions such as peripheral artery disease, diabetes, or hypertension. Lifestyle choices, like smoking, a sedentary lifestyle, and a diet high in saturated fats, can worsen poor circulation. Furthermore, obesity and certain medications may also impair circulation. If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Ronald Pieroni, DPM of Bolingbrook Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness   
• Numbness or cramping in the legs 
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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

Diabetes-related amputations pose a grave threat to individuals grappling with this chronic condition, but preventive measures can help to reduce this risk. Consistent blood sugar management is essential, and maintaining target levels through a balanced diet, regular exercise, and medication adherence can significantly reduce the likelihood of complications. Routine foot care is equally as vital, as inspecting feet daily for cuts, blisters, or infections and promptly treating any abnormalities can prevent minor issues from escalating. Wearing well-fitted shoes and socks can safeguard against pressure sores and friction-related injuries. Avoiding barefoot walking minimizes exposure to potential hazards. Regular visits to a podiatrist for foot examinations and professional care are imperative for early detection and intervention. Additionally, prioritizing cardiovascular health by managing blood pressure and cholesterol levels aids in preserving overall vascular function, reducing the risk of peripheral artery disease and subsequent amputations. By implementing these preventive strategies, individuals with diabetes can safeguard their feet and minimize the threat of amputations. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can present you with additional information about protecting your feet from amputation.

Diabetic Limb Salvage

Diabetic limb salvage can be an effective way in preventing the need for limb amputation. If you have a foot ulcer and diabetes, consult with Ronald Pieroni, DPM from Bolingbrook Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Diabetic Limb Salvage?

Diabetic limb salvage is the attempt of saving a limb, such as the foot, that has an infected ulcer, from amputation. Podiatrists also try to make sure that there is enough function in the foot after the salvage that it is still usable. Those with diabetes experience poor blood circulation, which prevents proper healing of an ulcer. If the ulcer is left uncheck, it could become infected, which could result in the need for amputation.

Diabetes is the number one cause of non-traumatic amputations in the United States. Amputation has been found to lead to higher mortality rates. This translates into higher healthcare costs, and a reduced quality of life and mobility for amputees. Podiatrists have attempted to increase the prevalence of limb salvage in an attempt to solve these issues.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Limb salvage teams have grown in recent years that utilize a number of different treatments to save the infected limb. This includes podiatrists that specialize in wound care, rehabilitation, orthotics, and surgery. Through a combination of these methods, limb salvage has been found to be an effective treatment for infected limbs, and as an alternative to amputation. Podiatrists will first evaluate the potential for limb salvage and determine if the limb can be saved or must be amputated. 

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