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 Mack Jay Groves IV, DPM from Groves 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 Covington, LA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s foot, also called tinea pedis, is a fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet. Despite its name, anyone can develop athlete’s foot, not just athletes. The fungus grows well in warm, moist environments and can spread through contact with infected skin or contaminated surfaces. Symptoms often develop between the toes but can appear on other parts of the foot. Common signs include itching, redness, and cracked or peeling skin. The affected area may also feel sore or develop small blisters. Because several skin conditions can look similar, an accurate diagnosis can help determine whether a fungal infection is causing the symptoms.

Athlete’s foot can spread from one area of the body to another and may sometimes affect the toenails. The infection can also pass between people through shared surfaces or personal items. Some cases are mild, while others become persistent or return after treatment. Cracks in the skin can create openings that allow bacteria to enter, potentially leading to another infection. People with certain health conditions may face a greater risk of complications from foot infections. Persistent itching, skin changes, or discomfort should be professionally evaluated, especially when symptoms become worse or do not improve with previous treatment.

A podiatrist can examine the feet and determine whether symptoms are caused by athlete’s foot or another skin condition. In some cases, a sample of skin may be examined to confirm a fungal infection. Once diagnosed, a podiatrist can recommend appropriate antifungal treatment based on the location and severity of the infection. Professional podiatry care can also identify related problems involving the skin or toenails and monitor areas at greater risk for complications. Early evaluation may help control the infection before it becomes more difficult to manage. If persistent itching, peeling skin, or other signs of athlete’s foot are causing discomfort, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Mack Jay Groves IV, DPM from Groves Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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

Foot problems in older adults often develop after years of daily use, pressure, and natural changes in the body. A lifetime of walking, running, and standing can place repeated stress on the feet, leading to structural changes and discomfort. Common conditions include corns, toenail disorders, bunions, and hammertoe. These issues can affect mobility, balance, and overall quality of life if they are not properly managed. Understanding these conditions can help older adults take steps to maintain foot health and independence.

Symptoms of foot problems in seniors can vary depending on the condition. Corns often appear as thickened areas of skin that cause pain when pressure is applied. Toenail disorders may include thickened, discolored, or brittle nails that are difficult to trim. Bunions develop as a bony bump at the base of the big toe, often leading to swelling, redness, and discomfort while wearing shoes. Hammertoe causes the toes to bend abnormally, which may result in pain, stiffness, and difficulty finding comfortable footwear. These symptoms can make walking and standing more challenging over time.

The causes of these conditions are often linked to long-term wear and tear on the feet. Years of repetitive movement can weaken muscles and ligaments, leading to changes in foot structure. As the body ages, the natural cushioning in the feet may thin, increasing pressure on certain areas and leading to pain and irritation.

Risk factors for foot problems in older adults include reduced circulation, chronic health conditions, and decreased mobility. Individuals with arthritis, diabetes, or poor balance may be more likely to develop foot issues. Regular foot care, wearing supportive footwear, and early attention to symptoms can help prevent complications. A podiatrist can provide personalized care and treatment to improve comfort and function. If you are elderly and have painful foot conditions, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Mack Jay Groves IV, DPM from Groves Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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

Morton’s neuroma is a common nerve-related foot condition that causes pain in the ball of the foot. It occurs when tissue surrounding a nerve becomes thickened and irritated, creating pressure on the affected nerve. The condition most often develops between the third and fourth toes, although symptoms can vary between individuals. Understanding how Morton’s neuroma develops can help identify warning signs and support early treatment.

The symptoms of Morton’s neuroma may include burning sensations, sharp pain, tingling, and numbness in the forefoot. Many people describe the discomfort as feeling like there is a small object trapped inside their shoe. Pain is typically located beneath the ball of the foot and may extend into the toes. Symptoms often become more noticeable during walking, running, or when wearing shoes that squeeze the front of the foot.

Risk factors for Morton’s neuroma include footwear choices, activity levels, and existing foot structure concerns. Wearing high heels and narrow shoes can force the toes together, increasing pressure on the nerves. Athletes who participate in running or jumping activities may also experience repeated stress in the forefoot. Other risk factors include flat feet, high arches, bunions, and hammertoes, which can change the way pressure is distributed across the foot.

Preventing worsening symptoms involves reducing irritation and supporting proper foot mechanics. Choosing comfortable shoes with enough room for the toes can help decrease pressure on the nerve. Addressing foot alignment concerns early may also improve comfort and mobility. Morton’s neuroma can be painful and may cause difficulty in completing daily activities. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat Morton’s neuroma. 

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Mack Jay Groves IV, DPM of Groves Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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