Joint wear that affects the body over time can influence more than the knees, hips, or hands. Changes related to osteoarthritis may also increase the likelihood of problems in the feet and ankles. As joint cushioning breaks down and movement patterns shift, added stress can be placed on nearby structures, leading to discomfort, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility. Foot and ankle issues may include joint pain, tendon strain, deformities, and difficulty with walking or balance. Because the feet support body weight with every step, changes in alignment elsewhere can also affect how pressure is distributed. Identifying these connections is important when evaluating ongoing lower extremity discomfort, especially in older adults or those with known joint degeneration. Treatment depends on the specific cause and severity of symptoms. If arthritis-related changes are affecting your comfort, mobility, or foot function, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plan.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Gabrielle Clark, DPM from LA Feet Foot & Ankle Center, Inc. Our doctor 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 offices located in New Orleans, Metairie, and Slidell, LA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Clubfoot is a condition present at birth where a baby’s foot is twisted out of its normal position, often pointing downward and inward. It can affect one or both feet and may appear smaller or tighter than usual. The exact cause is not always known, but it is linked to abnormal development of muscles, tendons, and bones in the foot before birth. Risk factors may include family history, certain genetic conditions, or limited space in the womb during pregnancy. Without treatment, walking may become difficult as the child grows and the foot remains stiff or misaligned. Early treatment is important, and often involves stretching, casting, bracing, or other corrective methods guided by a specialist. A podiatrist can help assess severity, monitor progress, and support long term foot function and alignment. If your child has been born with this condition, it is suggested that you include a podiatrist on your healthcare team for optimal support and corrective healing.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Gabrielle Clark, DPM of LA Feet Foot & Ankle Center, Inc. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.

What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?

A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.

What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?

Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:

• Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
• Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
• Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
• Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
• Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
• Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Treatment and Prevention

While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.

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

Toenail psoriasis affects how the nails grow and appear. This condition occurs when the immune system attacks healthy nail tissue by mistake, causing inflammation. It can lead to thickened nails, and color changes. Small dents may appear on the surface, and nails may lift from the skin underneath. In some cases, pain or pressure may be felt when walking. These symptoms can easily be mistaken for a fungal toenail  infection. A podiatrist can examine the nails, confirm the cause, and provide proper care to improve nail appearance and comfort. Treatment focuses on slowing the rapid nail growth and reducing inflammation. Options include medicated creams, oral medications, and small injections placed near the nail. If you have symptoms of toenail psoriasis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Gabrielle Clark, DPM of LA Feet Foot & Ankle Center, Inc. Our doctor 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 New Orleans, Metairie, and Slidell, LA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Diabetes-related ulcers on the feet and toes are open sores that develop due to high blood sugar levels affecting circulation and nerve health. Reduced sensation may make it difficult to notice small injuries that can worsen over time. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, and drainage that may be seen on socks. Risk factors include poor hygiene, improper trimming of toenails, alcohol consumption, and ill-fitting footwear. Without proper care, these ulcers can lead to serious complications. Daily foot exams and early attention to changes are important for prevention. A podiatrist can provide a thorough evaluation, treat ulcers, and offer guidance to support healing and reduce risk. If you have diabetes and have developed a foot ulcer, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious condition.

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 Gabrielle Clark, DPM from LA Feet Foot & Ankle Center, Inc. Our doctor 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 New Orleans, Metairie, and Slidell, LA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.