April 2023

Research has shown that walking is one of the best low-impact activities that can help people who have arthritis in their feet. This condition can affect people of all ages, and it may be more prevalent among the elderly. Walking can also be beneficial for overall physical health, and many patients notice the positive feeling that is associated with walking. There are three main categories of arthritis, and these are referred to as osteo, rheumatoid, and post-traumatic arthritis. Walking can strengthen the bones in the feet, and stress on the joints may be reduced. It is beneficial to start out slowly, and steps can be increased as time progresses. Patients who have arthritis in their feet may reap the benefits of walking by stretching first, drinking plenty of water, and wearing shoes that fit correctly. Additionally, the range of motion in the ankle may be improved when specific stretches are performed. If you would like more information about how walking may help arthritis in the feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you manage this painful condition.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Robert Graser from Graser Podiatry and Bunion Surgery Institute. 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 Boerne, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The feet carry the weight of the body, and they help to maintain balance. The heels and balls of the feet absorb the majority of the body’s weight. Proper balance can be achieved from the foot and leg muscles that provide stabilizing movements. Each foot consists of 26 bones that are connected by tendons and ligaments, which are part of the foot’s complex structure. The ankle connects the foot and lower leg bones and is divided into two categories, lower and upper ankle bones. The arch is responsible for absorbing impact from walking and similar activities and contains muscles, tendons, blood vessels, and nerves. The arch of the foot is measured in length and width, and there is constant tension as the muscles pull the bones together to create the arch. If you would like to have additional knowledge about the biomechanics of the feet, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can provide you with the information you are seeking.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Robert Graser from Graser Podiatry and Bunion Surgery Institute. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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

Studies show that women experience heel pain more frequently than men. Wearing high heels is thought to be the number one cause of heel pain in women. This leaves them more at risk for developing plantar fasciitis, the main complaint of which is heel pain. The band of tissue that runs beneath the foot, called the plantar fascia, becomes inflamed resulting in pain. However, other types of footwear common among women can also contribute to heel pain. Among them are shoes of any type that have a narrow toe box and pointy toes. Changing to footwear that properly supports the foot is one sure way to lower the risk of heel pain. Try to limit the height of heels to 1.5 inches, and check footwear for ample cushioning, arch support, and flexibility in the sole. In addition, starting a regular routine of foot stretches can help relieve tightness in the arch and heel. In some cases, special orthotic inserts for the shoes can diminish pain in the heels. For any type of heel pain that impedes your daily activities, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam to determine the cause and prescribe custom orthotics if needed.  

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Dr. Robert Graser of Graser Podiatry and Bunion Surgery Institute. Our doctor 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 contact our office located in Boerne, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Waking up in the middle of the night with a foot cramp can be disturbing to sleep, as well as painful. Foot and toe cramps, which are muscle spasms, can have several causes among them are dehydration, vitamin deficiency, and circulation problems. Drinking more water during the day can help to keep the body hydrated. If foot and toe cramps are common, it pays to keep track of the intake of certain vitamins and minerals. Calcium, potassium, magnesium, and salt can impede the muscles’ ability to contract and release. Too little time spent stretching can contribute to tight muscles, which may result in cramping. Poor circulation, which may take the form of peripheral artery disease, can be a factor in foot cramps. Wearing shoes that are uncomfortable or ill-fitting also can result in cramping of the feet and toes. Women may be more susceptible after wearing high heels with a pointy toe box. Certain medications, such as diuretics and cholesterol medicine, may cause cramping. And medical conditions, such as pregnancy, diabetes, and peripheral neuropathy may also be risk factors. If you notice that foot and toe cramps have become more common, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for more information.  

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. Robert Graser from Graser Podiatry and Bunion Surgery Institute. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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