There are many types of arthritis, with rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, and gout being two distinct but often confused members of this family. While both inflict pain and inflammation upon the joints, the origins and treatment strategies for each differ significantly. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune inflammatory condition that arises when the immune system mistakenly targets healthy cells in the synovial tissues. This results in pain, swelling, and inflammation. RA can affect ankle joints on both sides of the body and can lead to irreversible joint damage over time. Gout, while also inflammatory, is not autoimmune in nature. It develops from elevated levels of uric acid in the bloodstream. Uric acid, found in certain foods and drinks, as well as influenced by specific medications, forms crystals that deposit in synovial tissues, particularly in the feet, and especially in the big toe. Unfortunately, studies show that some patients with RA also have gout. Obesity is thought to be a link between the two conditions in some cases, as it is a shared risk factor. An accurate diagnosis is paramount for effective treatment. A podiatrist can conduct a series of tests to determine whether your joint pain comes from RA, gout, or both. For help, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Lexington Foot and Ankle Center, PSC. 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 Harrodsburg, Frankfort, Georgetown, and Lexington, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Living with diabetes involves a comprehensive approach to health, with a particular focus on the well-being of your feet. Diabetes affects the blood supply, resulting in peripheral neuropathy and peripheral vascular disease. Both conditions heighten the risk of complications, such as ulcers, gangrene, and possible loss of limb. Warning signs include cold feet, numbness, sharp leg pain, or changes in foot color. Nail changes, corns, calluses, cracked, or dry skin warrant a podiatrist's assessment within one week. The extremities, like the feet, often reveal the first signs of diabetes-related symptoms. Regular check-ups with a podiatrist are essential for tests to gauge blood circulation and nerve function. Prevention is key to averting severe diabetic-related foot problems. Daily care for diabetics includes maintaining stable blood sugar levels, refraining from smoking, engaging in regular exercise, and avoiding barefoot walking. Ensure good foot hygiene by washing and drying the feet daily, and checking the feet for sores, cuts, or unexplained bruises. Wearing well-fitting shoes is also beneficial. Should you notice persistent issues affecting the feet, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an immediate appointment with a podiatrist. 

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Lexington Foot and Ankle Center, PSC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Sever's disease, a common but often misunderstood condition, is not truly a disease, but rather a growth-related heel pain that affects active children and adolescents. This condition, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, occurs when the growth plate at the back of the heel becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress and tension. Children between the ages of 8 and 15 are most susceptible to Sever's disease, as this is typically when their bones are rapidly growing. This growth spurt places extra stress on the heel's growth plate, especially in active children who participate in sports or activities that involve running and jumping. The hallmark symptom of Sever's disease is heel pain, often exacerbated by physical activity. This pain can be particularly bothersome during or after exercise. Understanding Sever's disease is essential for parents and young athletes, as it enables early recognition and appropriate management. If your active child has heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose and treat Sever’s disease.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from Lexington Foot and Ankle Center, PSC. Our doctors can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Harrodsburg, Frankfort, Georgetown, and Lexington, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

Neuropathy, a condition characterized by nerve damage, can significantly impact the feet, leading to various symptoms that range from tingling sensations to sharp pain. Diabetes stands as a primary contributor to neuropathy, with prolonged elevated blood sugar levels damaging nerves over time. Other systemic conditions such as autoimmune disorders, kidney diseases, and vitamin deficiencies can also instigate neuropathic symptoms in the feet. Moreover, exposure to toxins, certain medications, or infections may provoke neuropathy, affecting the peripheral nerves responsible for transmitting signals between the feet and the central nervous system. Trauma or injury to the nerves, often arising from accidents or surgeries, can induce neuropathic symptoms. Understanding the diverse causes of neuropathy is paramount for an accurate diagnosis and targeted intervention. If you have tingling or numbing sensations in your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat neuropathy.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with one of our podiatrists from Lexington Foot and Ankle Center, PSC. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Harrodsburg, Frankfort, Georgetown, and Lexington, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, is a vascular condition characterized by the narrowing or blockage of arteries, predominantly in the legs, resulting in reduced blood flow to the feet. This condition, often associated with hardening of the arteries, can significantly impact foot health and lead to various symptoms. Symptoms of peripheral artery disease may include leg pain, cramping, numbness, and skin discoloration. Generally, these symptoms develop when approximately 70 percent of the artery is blocked. Aging, smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol levels, obesity, physical inactivity, and family history are contributing factors. Men are generally more susceptible to PAD than women. Peripheral artery disease also can result from fibromuscular dysplasia, inflammation, or external pressure from nearby masses. The severity and nature of symptoms depend on the affected artery, degree of blockage, and whether it is a gradual narrowing or sudden blockage. Someone with peripheral artery disease may experience coldness in the lower leg or foot, numbness or weakness, absent or a weak pulse in the legs or feet, and shiny skin on the legs. One of the main dangers is in the formation of sores on the toes, feet, or legs that will not heal. These may develop into ulcers, which can engender severe foot or toe problems. If you have peripheral artery disease symptoms that are affecting your lower limbs and feet, it is suggested that you include a podiatrist as a member of your medical team. 

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with one of our podiatrists from Lexington Foot and Ankle Center, PSC. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

• Claudication (leg pain from walking)
• Numbness in legs
• Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
• Paleness of the skin
• Erectile dysfunction
• Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
• Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Harrodsburg, Frankfort, Georgetown, and Lexington, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.