Arthritis in the feet can make standing, walking, and staying active painful. This condition causes inflammation in or around the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling. Osteoarthritis develops when cartilage, the cushioning tissue at the ends of bones, wears down. Without enough cartilage, bones can rub together and create foot or ankle pain. Rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints. Post-traumatic arthritis can develop after an injury like a fracture, dislocation, or sprain.

Foot arthritis can affect areas from the heel to the toes. Symptoms include tender joints, warmth, and pain with movement. Stiffness can become more noticeable after sitting or sleeping. Some patients also have difficulty walking because painful joints do not move as freely. Rheumatoid arthritis can affect the same joints in both feet and can contribute to changes like hammertoes. Osteoarthritis can affect only one foot. Because several types of arthritis can produce similar symptoms, identifying the type and affected joints is an important part of choosing appropriate foot care.

A podiatrist can examine the feet, assess joint movement, and determine how arthritis is affecting walking. Treatment can focus on reducing pressure on painful joints and supporting comfortable movement. A podiatrist can recommend supportive shoes or custom orthotics, which are inserts designed to improve foot support and alignment. Care can also address changes in foot structure that develop because of arthritis. When joint damage is severe, surgery can be considered to reduce pain or improve function. Regular podiatric evaluations can help track changes in the feet and guide treatment as symptoms change. If you have symptoms of foot arthritis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and management solutions.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. 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 office located in Brunswick, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A broken toe refers to a fracture in one of the small bones of the foot, often caused by direct impact or repetitive stress. This injury is common and can significantly affect mobility. Symptoms include immediate pain, swelling, bruising, and sensitivity when touching the area. Many people find it difficult to walk or place weight on the affected foot, which can disrupt daily routines and physical activity.

Common causes include stubbing the toe against furniture and other hard surfaces and dropping heavy objects on the foot. These sudden forces can damage the bone and surrounding tissue. Among runners, broken toes may develop from repeated stress, especially when training intensity increases too quickly. Wearing poorly fitted shoes and running on hard or uneven surfaces can further raise the risk of injury.

The effects of a broken toe are especially noticeable during movement. Pain during push-off can limit running ability and reduce overall performance. Swelling and stiffness may make it difficult to wear shoes comfortably. In more severe cases, the toe may appear misaligned, and walking becomes increasingly painful. Early symptoms such as swelling and difficulty bearing weight should not be ignored, as proper care is necessary for recovery.

Risk factors include high-impact sports, wearing inadequate footwear, and the lack of rest between activities. Strengthening foot muscles and using proper running techniques can help lower the risk. Recognizing symptoms early allows for timely treatment and improved healing outcomes. A broken toe is often painful and needs immediate treatment to ensure a safe recovery. If you enjoy running and have broken your toe, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can guide you toward effective treatment tips, enabling you to safely return to this popular activity.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Brunswick, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

An ankle sprain happens when a ligament in the joint stretches too far after the foot rolls, twists, or lands unevenly. Ligaments are strong, flexible bands that connect bones and keep a joint stable. Most sprains affect ligaments on the outside of the ankle. A mild sprain stretches these tissues, while a severe sprain can cause a partial or complete tear. Pain, swelling, and bruising can begin soon after the injury. Patients can also hear a pop or have trouble putting weight on the foot. The ankle can feel weak or give way when standing. Prompt medical attention matters because fractures can cause similar symptoms.

A podiatrist can examine the ankle, ask how the injury happened, and check the joint’s movement and stability. Imaging tests can rule out a fracture or reveal other damage. The podiatrist can then grade the sprain based on how badly the ligament was injured. Treatment depends on that grade and the patient’s needs. It can include a brace, walking boot, or crutches to stabilize and protect the ankle as it heals. Most sprains do not require surgery, but a severe tear or lasting instability can make surgery an option. Follow-up visits let the podiatrist track healing, adjust support, and guide a safe return to work or sports.

An untreated ankle sprain can lead to repeated injuries, lasting pain, and poor stability. The risk rises when activity resumes before the ankle regains full strength and control. A podiatrist can recommend a step-by-step return to activity and explain how to prevent another sprain. Helpful measures include warming up, choosing well-fitting shoes, and using activity-appropriate ankle support. Seek prompt care if swelling becomes severe, the ankle looks out of place, or standing is impossible. If you have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment. 

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Brunswick, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A broken ankle occurs when one or more bones in the ankle joint fracture. The ankle supports the body’s weight and handles strong forces while walking, running, and jumping. A fracture can follow a fall, sports injury, or forceful twist. Symptoms can include immediate pain, swelling, and bruising. Tenderness and difficulty putting weight on the injured ankle are also possible. Some patients can still walk with a fracture, so being able to take steps does not always rule out a broken bone.

Ankle fractures can range from stable breaks to injuries that leave the joint unstable. A severe injury can also cause the ankle to look deformed. Because fractures and serious sprains can produce similar symptoms, a careful evaluation is important. The ankle contains the tibia, fibula, and talus, and a fracture can affect one or more of these bones. Treatment depends on the location of the break and whether the ankle remains stable. Some fractures require immobilization, while unstable or displaced fractures can require surgery to restore proper alignment.

A podiatrist can evaluate an injured ankle by checking tenderness, swelling, and the ability to put weight on the foot. The examination can also assess the foot for related injuries and signs that circulation or nerves are affected. Imaging can help confirm a suspected fracture and show the position of the broken bone. A podiatrist can determine an appropriate treatment plan based on the injury and ankle stability. Follow-up care can monitor healing, joint movement, and lingering swelling. Proper care is important because complications can include lasting pain, stiffness, and reduced ankle function. If you have symptoms of a broken ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
• Swelling around the area
• Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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