Pain from arthritis in the feet and ankles can be relieved through certain exercises. Experts suggest low-impact  activities like swimming and yoga, which help take the pressure off the feet as you move. In addition, research has shown that performing specific stretches may help to ease foot pain, making it easier to complete daily activities. These include toe curls, the ankle alphabet, and calf stretches for the Achilles tendon. Toe curls are done while sitting in a chair, placing a towel on the floor, dragging it toward you with the toes, and followed by pushing it away. The ankle alphabet is practiced by writing the letters of the alphabet in the air with your foot. If you have ankle or foot arthritis, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Joseph Creswell, DPM from Practice. Our practitioner 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 Wallace, ID . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Heel pain from plantar fasciitis can interfere with daily activity and limit mobility when it does not improve after many months of conservative treatment. The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that supports the arch of the foot, running from the toes to the heel. When it becomes irritated and inflamed, the pain can become persistent and severe. In certain cases, a podiatrist may recommend surgery to release part of the fascia and reduce tension on the heel bone. This procedure, called a fasciotomy, may be performed through a small incision or with the aid of an endoscope. Surgery for plantar fasciitis may be considered when ongoing pain prevents walking, standing, or returning to normal activities. While recovery times vary, the goal is to reduce pain and restore foot function. If you are suffering from plantar fasciitis pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment, which may include surgery.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Joseph Creswell, DPM of Practice. Our practitioner will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Peripheral artery disease is a condition in which narrowed or blocked arteries reduce blood flow to the legs and feet. This limited circulation can cause pain when walking, cramping in the calves, or wounds that are slow to heal. In some cases, the skin may appear pale, cool, or discolored. Early diagnosis is essential, as untreated disease increases the risk of serious complications. Evaluation may include a physical exam, checking pulses in the feet, and noninvasive tests such as the ankle brachial index or ultrasound. Treatment focuses on improving circulation and preventing progression. Lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, regular walking programs, and healthy eating can make a significant difference. Medications may be prescribed to improve blood flow or manage risk factors, and surgery may be considered for severe cases. If you are concerned about circulation in your lower legs or feet, it is suggested that you seek care from a podiatrist for proper testing and management.

Vascular testing plays an important part in diagnosing disease like peripheral artery disease. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, or diabetes, consult with Joseph Creswell, DPM from Practice. Our practitioner will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Vascular Testing?

Vascular testing checks for how well blood circulation is in the veins and arteries. This is most often done to determine and treat a patient for peripheral artery disease (PAD), stroke, and aneurysms. Podiatrists utilize vascular testing when a patient has symptoms of PAD or if they believe they might. If a patient has diabetes, a podiatrist may determine a vascular test to be prudent to check for poor blood circulation.

How Is it Conducted?

Most forms of vascular testing are non-invasive. Podiatrists will first conduct a visual inspection for any wounds, discoloration, and any abnormal signs prior to a vascular test.

 The most common tests include:

• Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) examination
• Doppler examination
• Pedal pulses

These tests are safe, painless, and easy to do. Once finished, the podiatrist can then provide a diagnosis and the best course for treatment.

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