Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune-related disease. It causes the immune system to attack healthy joint tissue, which leads to inflammation, pain, and long-term damage. This condition often affects small joints in the feet and hands, creating stiffness, swelling, warmth, and joint-related deformities that can limit daily activities. Common risk factors include family history, smoking, hormonal influences, and middle-aged onset, although it can develop at any stage of life. Early-stage symptoms may feel mild, but can quickly progress without proper care. A podiatrist plays a vital role in managing weight-bearing stress, reducing pain, improving mobility, and recommending custom orthotics or supportive footwear. If you have persistent foot discomfort, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer helpful relief and management tips.

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 Alex Kim, DPM of AVID Foot & 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 Little Elm, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Inflammatory arthritis is a group of conditions in which the immune system causes ongoing joint inflammation. Common types include rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and gout. These conditions often affect the feet and ankles early, leading to pain, swelling, stiffness, and changes in joint structure. Over time, inflammation can alter foot shape, increase pressure points, and make walking difficult. Proper foot care helps reduce discomfort and protect mobility. Wearing supportive footwear with cushioning and adequate toe space can limit joint stress, while custom orthotics may improve alignment and pressure distribution. Gentle movement, stretching, and pacing daily activities can also help manage symptoms. Swelling and joint changes increase the risk of skin irritation, calluses, and nail problems, making routine foot checks important. If foot pain, deformity, or walking difficulty develops, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Alex Kim, DPM from AVID Foot & Ankle Center. 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 Little Elm, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Ankle injuries from cycling often occur when a rider loses balance and the foot forcefully hits the ground, causing the ankle to roll. The most common injuries are sprains and fractures. A sprain is a stretching or tearing of ligaments, while a fracture is a break in the bone. Symptoms of sprains include swelling, bruising, and limited movement, while fractures often cause severe pain, inability to bear weight, and possible deformity. Risk factors include improper footwear, lack of ankle support, and uneven terrain. These injuries can interfere with mobility and daily activities, if not treated properly. A podiatrist can diagnose the injury and provide appropriate care to promote healing. If you have ankle pain from cycling, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Alex Kim, DPM from AVID Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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

Achilles tendon tears are among the most frequent tendon injuries. They often occur suddenly during physical activity that involves rapid pushing off, jumping, or changing direction. Risk is higher in active middle-aged men, particularly during sports like basketball, though non-sport-related tears are more common in older people. A history of ongoing Achilles tendon pain or degeneration increases vulnerability, as does advancing age, which can reduce tendon strength and flexibility. Certain medical conditions, including diabetes, inflammatory joint disease, and metabolic disorders, may weaken the tendon over time. Some medications, such as specific antibiotics or long-term corticosteroids, have also been linked to a higher risk. Tears typically cause sudden pain, swelling, and difficulty pushing off the foot. A podiatrist can assess symptoms, perform clinical testing, confirm the diagnosis, and guide appropriate treatment to restore strength and function. If you believe you have torn your Achilles tendon, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for help.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Alex Kim, DPM of AVID Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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