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 one of our podiatrists from Geller Foot Clinic. 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 Lathrup Village, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Weak ankles can develop when the muscles and ligaments that support the joint lose strength or stability over time. This condition may appear as frequent rolling of the ankle, difficulty balancing, or discomfort during walking or physical activity. It often happens after previous sprains, long periods of inactivity, or repetitive strain that reduces joint support. To help improve strength, exercises such as isometric holds can activate stabilizing muscles without excessive movement. Tibia lifts can improve control of the lower leg, while calf raises help build strength in the muscles that support ankle motion and balance. A podiatrist can evaluate ankle stability, identify underlying biomechanical issues, and recommend targeted rehabilitation strategies for safe improvement. If you have ankle pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide effective relief solutions.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Geller Foot Clinic. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctors to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

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

A calcaneal stress fracture is a small crack in the heel bone that develops over time from repeated impact. It often appears as deep heel pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest, though it can become constant if ignored. Swelling and tenderness in the back or bottom of the heel may also be present. This condition is common in runners, athletes, and individuals who suddenly increase activity levels. It happens when the bone is unable to keep up with repeated stress and begins to weaken. A podiatrist can evaluate the heel through examination and imaging to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment focuses on protecting the bone, reducing strain, and guiding a safe return to activity. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat the problem. 

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Geller Foot Clinic. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

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

Heel fat pad syndrome develops when the thick cushion under the heel becomes thinner or damaged. This padding normally absorbs shock and helps protect the heel bone while walking and standing. When the fat pad loses support, the heel becomes more sensitive to pressure and impact. People with heel fat pad syndrome usually feel a deep, dull ache in the center of the heel. This becomes worse after long periods of standing or walking. The heel can also feel tender, swollen, or warm to the touch. Risk factors include aging, excess body weight, and wearing shoes that lack proper cushioning and support.  Diabetes and inflammatory joint disease may also be factors. A podiatrist can examine the heel, identify the cause of the pain, and rule out other conditions. Treatment includes custom orthotics, supportive padding, and footwear guidance. If you have symptoms of heel fat pad syndrome, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Geller Foot Clinic. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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