Psoriatic arthritis can cause painful and often disabling changes in the feet, toes, and ankles. Inflammation commonly develops in the small joints of the toes, leading to stiffness, swelling, and difficulty bending them or walking. Some people experience dactylitis, where an entire toe swells into a sausage-like shape. Others develop pain in the heel due to Achilles tendon involvement. Swelling in the ankles, which can restrict mobility, is also a frequent symptom of psoriatic arthritis. Over time, persistent inflammation may lead to deformities, such as clawed toes, shortening of the digits, or a flattened arch. Psoriatic arthritis can also affect the toenails, causing pitting, thickening, or discoloration, which may complicate footwear choices and performing daily activities. A podiatrist can diagnose psoriatic arthritis in the feet, recommend treatment to relieve pain and swelling, and discuss surgery if joint damage is severe. If you have symptoms of psoriatic arthritis in the feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Afsha Naimat-Shahzad, DPM from Leander Foot & Ankle. Our doctor 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 office located in Leander, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s disease is one of the most common causes of heel pain in active children, especially those who participate in running or jumping sports. It is not a disease in the traditional sense, but rather an overuse injury that develops when the growth plate in the heel becomes irritated. Symptoms usually include pain at the back of the heel that worsens with activity and improves with rest. Sometimes there may be swelling or difficulty walking comfortably. Diagnosis is usually based on a detailed history and physical examination rather than imaging, since X-rays often appear normal. A podiatrist will gently press around the heel and evaluate the child’s gait to confirm the source of discomfort. If your child is experiencing recurring heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and treatment guidance.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Afsha Naimat-Shahzad, DPM from Leander Foot & Ankle. Our doctor 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 office located in Leander, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A heel spur is defined as a bony growth surrounding the ligaments of the foot near the heel bone. It may develop as a result of existing medical conditions that can include poor circulation and various forms of arthritis. Some of the symptoms that are associated with heel spurs can include continuous foot pain, and it may be difficult to walk. It may become worse after arising in the morning, or if excessive strain has been placed on the heel in previous days. Mild relief may be found when the affected foot is elevated, and it may help to place a protective pad in the heel of the shoe. If you are experiencing heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly diagnose heel spurs, and offer you correct treatment techniques.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Afsha Naimat-Shahzad, DPM from Leander Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

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

Cracked heels are a common foot problem that occurs when the skin surrounding the heel becomes dry, hard, and thickened, often due to pressure, lack of moisture, or prolonged standing. Symptoms include rough patches of skin on the heel edge that may split and cause pain. In severe cases, the cracks can deepen and become infected, sometimes leading to cellulitis, which requires medical attention. A podiatrist can help by safely removing thickened skin, providing moisturization plans, recommending footwear to reduce pressure, and addressing any underlying conditions. If cracked heels are left untreated they may worsen over time. If you have developed cracked heels, it is suggested that you promptly contact a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition, which may include prescribed medication.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Afsha Naimat-Shahzad, DPM from Leander Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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