February 2020

One particular kind of arthritis that can affect the feet and ankles is known as rheumatoid arthritis, or RA. Symptoms of RA may include the feeling of stiffness in the ankle joints, which may stem from an inflammation issue of the ankles. Over time, the overall structure and shape of the joints in the ankle may change due to RA. Those with RA may feel pain in the heel, Achilles tendon region, toes, and ball of the foot. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis may also experience difficulty walking or standing for long periods of time, as the overall mobility of their joints become increasingly restricted. Partaking in light exercises, following an anti-inflammatory diet, and using medication for reducing inflammation and pain may help to relieve the symptoms of RA. For information on how arthritis affects the feet, we recommend you consult with a podiatrist for professional care and an advised treatment plan.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Stanley Phillips, DPM from Foot & Ankle Clinics of Utah. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in American Fork, UT . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

It’s quite common that as we age, we start to become a little less stable on our feet. Because of this, it may be beneficial to take certain actions in helping to prevent falling, as well as injuring the feet. The first step in this process would be making sure your home is safe and accessible. Part of this involves keeping your home clean and avoiding an excess of clutter, as this may help to lessen your chances of accidentally tripping on something. Similarly, you want to make sure you can see any obstacle that may be in your way. With that in mind, keeping your house well lit, especially around stairs, can be extremely useful. Speaking of stairs, if you don’t already, you should have hand railings installed for extra support. Another great tip for preventing falls is investing in furniture that will stay put. This can be done through the use of non-skid mats for bathroom or showers, as well as rugs paired with double-sided tape. For more helpful tips about falls prevention, we recommend you consult with a podiatrist for professional advice.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Stanley Phillips, DPM from Foot & Ankle Clinics of Utah. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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