May 2025

Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, is an autoimmune condition that often impacts the feet and ankles, leading to joint inflammation and structural changes over time. This chronic inflammation can make walking difficult and painful, especially during flare-ups. Movements that require side to side motion or walking on uneven surfaces may become challenging due to stiffness and instability. As the condition progresses, the arch of the foot can collapse, causing the foot to flatten and altering the way weight is distributed. This change can lead to further discomfort and imbalance. Bunions, which are bony bumps that form on the joint at the base of the big toe, are also common in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis. If you have symptoms of RA in your feet and ankles, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this uncomfortable condition.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Associates in Podiatry, PC. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A broken toe can result from a direct injury, such as dropping something on the foot or stubbing it against a hard surface. While symptoms may include bruising, swelling, and difficulty walking, not all fractures are immediately obvious. A careful exam and imaging, such as an X-ray, are often needed to determine the extent and location of the break. Depending on the severity, treatment may involve buddy taping the injured toe to a neighboring one, using a stiff-soled shoe, or temporarily limiting activity. In more complex cases, especially if the fracture is displaced or involves a joint, further intervention may be required. Healing can take several weeks, and early care helps prevent long-term stiffness or deformity. If your toe is painful, swollen, or looks misshapen after an injury, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Associates in Podiatry, PC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.