Foot arthritis is a condition characterized by inflammation and degeneration of the joints in the foot, leading to pain and reduced mobility. Two common types include osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis develops from wear and tear over time and often causes joint stiffness, aching pain, and swelling that worsens with activity. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that leads to joint inflammation, warmth, swelling, and deformity, often affecting both feet. Causes of foot arthritis may include aging, prior injury, genetics, or immune system dysfunction. A podiatrist can assess joint involvement, recommend supportive footwear, custom orthotics, and treatment options to reduce pain and improve function. If you have foot pain or any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an expert evaluation and personalized care.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Gelbmann Podiatry. 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 offices located in Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

The feet play a vital role in dancing, serving as the foundation for balance, control, and expressive movement. For optimal performance, the entire foot must move as a coordinated unit, allowing smooth transitions and powerful push offs. Deep external rotator muscles are especially important, as they help control foot and ankle alignment while supporting stability through complex dance movements. Practicing foot separating motions between the forefoot and hindfoot can improve flexibility, control, and awareness, helping dancers move with greater precision and reduce strain. When foot mechanics are limited or imbalanced, performance and comfort may suffer. A podiatrist can help by evaluating foot structure, alignment, and movement patterns specific to dance demands. If foot pain or instability is affecting your dancing, it is suggested that you schedule a podiatry evaluation to protect your feet and enhance performance.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Gelbmann Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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

Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, is a chronic autoimmune condition that can affect the joints in the feet, causing inflammation, pain, and stiffness. The immune system attacks joint tissues, leading to swelling, warmth, and decreased mobility. Symptoms in the feet may include difficulty walking, bunion formation, hammertoes, and joint deformities over time. Causes of RA involve genetic and environmental factors, while risk factors include family history, female gender, age, and smoking. Early diagnosis and management are crucial to prevent joint damage and maintain mobility. A podiatrist can evaluate foot health, provide custom orthotics, recommend supportive footwear, and suggest targeted therapies to reduce pain and inflammation. If you have symptoms of RA in your feet, it is suggested that you schedule a podiatry consultation to protect foot function and relieve discomfort.

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 one of our podiatrists of Gelbmann Podiatry. Our doctors 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 offices located in Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.