Arthritis of the big toe joint can make walking painful and limit daily activity. This condition develops when the cartilage that cushions the joint wears down over time. As the joint becomes stiff and inflamed, patients may notice swelling, reduced motion, and discomfort when pushing off the foot. Many people find relief through non-surgical treatment options. Wearing supportive shoes with a stiff sole can reduce strain on the joint. Custom orthotics help control motion and improve alignment during walking. Anti-inflammatory medications may decrease pain and swelling. In some cases, corticosteroid injections provide temporary relief. Targeted exercises can improve flexibility and strengthen surrounding muscles, which supports better joint function. Early care often slows progression and improves comfort. Ignoring symptoms may lead to worsening stiffness and limited mobility. If you are experiencing ongoing pain or reduced movement in your big toe joint, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Kelly Whaley, DPM from Ohio. 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 Willoughby, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis is an inflammatory condition involving the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue that supports the arch and connects the heel to the toes. It is the leading cause of heel pain, and commonly presents as a sharp stabbing pain in the heel or arch, especially with the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest. Discomfort may lessen with movement, but often returns after prolonged standing or activity. Risk factors include flat feet, high arches, obesity, wearing improper footwear, and repetitive stress from running or standing for long hours. A podiatrist can provide stretching guidance, custom orthotics, and targeted treatment to relieve pain. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat plantar fasciitis.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Kelly Whaley, DPM  from Ohio. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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

A pinky toe corn is a small area of thickened skin that develops due to repeated friction or pressure on the outer part of the smallest toe. This protective buildup forms when the skin responds to irritation, often from wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes. Common causes include narrow footwear, high heels, toe deformities, and abnormal foot mechanics that increase pressure. Risk factors include hammertoes, bunions, excessive walking, and improper shoe sizing. Symptoms may include tenderness, a hard raised bump, redness, and discomfort when wearing shoes. A podiatrist can safely remove the corn, address underlying structural issues, and recommend proper footwear or orthotics. If you have developed a corn anywhere on your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment and prevention tips.

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Kelly Whaley, DPM of Ohio. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:

• Well-fitting socks
• Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
• Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctor to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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

Sever’s disease is a heel condition in children and adolescents caused by inflammation of the growth plate in the heel. It often develops during growth spurts when bones grow faster than muscles and tendons, creating tension at the back of the heel. Risk factors include participation in running and jumping sports, tight calf muscles, improper footwear, and high activity levels. Flat feet or high arches may further increase strain on the heels. Symptoms typically include heel pain, tenderness, swelling, and discomfort during activity. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, recommend supportive footwear, provide custom orthotics, and guide stretching programs to relieve stress on the heel. If your active child has heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and relief tips.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Kelly Whaley, DPM from Ohio. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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