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Psoriatic Arthritis and Its Effects on the Feet

Tuesday, 20 January 2026

Psoriatic arthritis is an inflammatory condition linked to psoriasis, which can affect the feet in multiple ways because both joints and soft tissues become involved. Many people notice stiffness in the toes or mid-foot, along with swelling that makes shoes feel tighter than usual. The condition can also inflame the tendons, especially around the heel or along the top of the foot, creating soreness during walking or climbing stairs. Some individuals develop dactylitis, where an entire toe becomes swollen and tender, giving it a sausage-like appearance. Skin plaques related to psoriasis may also appear on the feet and add to irritation. Because symptoms can fluctuate and progress over time, early evaluation helps determine which areas need the most support. A podiatrist can assess joint alignment, recommend footwear, provide inserts, and offer treatments that reduce inflammation. If foot symptoms from psoriatic arthritis are affecting daily activities, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for effective relief tips.

When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact one of our podiatrists from Family Foot Care. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.

Systemic Diseases of the Feet

Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable. Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.

Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.

Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.

Diabetes of the Feet

Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.

Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet.

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

Understanding Hallux Rigidus

Tuesday, 13 January 2026

Hallux rigidus is a form of arthritis that affects the big toe joint, making it difficult and often painful to bend the toe during walking or daily activities. Many people first notice stiffness, swelling, or a sharp ache when pushing off the ground, especially in tighter shoes. As the condition progresses, the joint may lose more motion, causing persistent discomfort and changes in the way a person walks. Treatment focuses on relieving pain and protecting the joint. Wearing supportive shoes with a stiff sole, custom orthotics, and activity adjustments can reduce strain. Anti-inflammatory care or targeted exercises may also help improve comfort. In more advanced cases, surgical options can restore function or reduce pain. If you have developed this condition,it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and the most appropriate treatment plan.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Family Foot Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

Trauma
Sports injury
Wearing shoes that are too tight
Arthritis
Gout
Corns and calluses
Hammertoe
Bunions
Blisters
Ingrown toenails
Sprains
Fractures (broken bones)
Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

Severe pain
Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
Signs of infection
Continued swelling
Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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

Wounds That Don't Heal Need to Be Checked

Friday, 09 January 2026

Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.

Gout in Women and Podiatric Treatment

Tuesday, 06 January 2026

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals within a joint, most often affecting the big toe, foot, and ankle. Although commonly associated with men, women can also develop gout, especially after menopause when protective hormone levels change. Symptoms typically include sudden onset of intense joint pain, swelling, redness, warmth, and stiffness, often beginning in the big toe. Causes may include genetics, diet, dehydration, kidney function changes, and certain medications. A podiatrist can help by diagnosing gout through a clinical evaluation, managing acute flare ups, reducing joint inflammation, and providing guidance on footwear and lifestyle modifications to protect the feet. If you develop sudden pain in your big toe, it is suggested that you promptly schedule a podiatry appointment to receive a proper evaluation and personalized care.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Family Foot Care. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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

Fighting Athlete’s Foot for Healthier Skin

Tuesday, 30 December 2025

Athlete’s foot, also known as tinea pedis, is a common fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet, particularly between the toes. It thrives in warm, moist environments such as locker rooms, showers, and sweaty shoes. Symptoms often include itching, burning, redness, and peeling skin. In some cases, blisters or cracks may form, causing pain or discomfort when walking. The infection may also cause a strong odor and can spread to the toenails or other parts of the body if left untreated. A podiatrist can diagnose athlete’s foot through a physical examination and, if needed, laboratory testing to identify the specific fungus. Treatment may involve antifungal creams, powders, oral medication, and guidance on proper foot hygiene and footwear choices. Early treatment helps prevent the infection from spreading and recurring. It is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to receive professional care and effective treatment for athlete’s foot.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one of our podiatrists from Family Foot Care. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

Thoroughly washing and drying feet
Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
Using shower shoes in public showers
Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

Redness
Burning
Itching
Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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

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