Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes the body's immune system to attack the lining of healthy joints. The feet are often affected early, making walking and other daily activities more difficult. Many people experience pain, swelling, and stiffness in the front of the foot or around the toes. As the condition progresses, the joints may become unstable. This can cause changes in foot shape and make it harder to wear comfortable shoes. Rheumatoid arthritis usually affects the same joints on both sides of the body. Without proper treatment, ongoing inflammation can damage bones, joints, and soft tissues, leading to long-term foot problems. Early diagnosis and professional care play an important role in protecting foot health and maintaining mobility.

A podiatrist is an important member of the healthcare team for people with rheumatoid arthritis. During an examination, the podiatrist evaluates joint movement, foot alignment, and areas of pain to see how the condition is affecting the feet. They may also identify deformities or changes that increase pressure when walking. Treatment is based on a person's symptoms and the stage of the disease. It may include custom orthotics, supportive footwear recommendations, or other medical treatments that improve comfort and reduce stress on the joints. Regular podiatry visits also allow changes in the feet to be monitored so treatment can be adjusted as needed.

Professional rheumatoid arthritis foot care can help improve mobility and reduce the impact of joint damage over time. Early treatment may slow the progression of foot problems and help people remain active for longer. A podiatrist works closely with other healthcare providers to support overall treatment while addressing pain and changes that affect the feet. Seeking care early may also help reduce the risk of balance problems and difficulty walking. If rheumatoid arthritis is causing foot pain or swelling, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation.

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 Diagnostic Foot Specialists. 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 Houston, TX, Houston, TX, and Bryan, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Flat feet in children, often referred to as pediatric flatfoot, is a condition in which the arch of the foot does not fully develop. This causes the entire sole to come into contact with the ground. This is common in infants and younger children, as the arch typically forms gradually as muscles strengthen and bones mature. In many cases, flat feet resolve naturally with growth. However, when the condition persists or begins to cause symptoms, it may affect posture, balance, and overall movement patterns. A clear understanding of flat feet can help parents determine when observation is appropriate and when professional evaluation is needed. The symptoms of flat feet in children can range from mild to more noticeable concerns. Some children remain symptom free, while others may report aching in the feet, heel discomfort, or fatigue after activity. Parents may observe that the ankles roll inward, a pattern known as overpronation, or that shoes wear unevenly over time. Children may also avoid physical activities that involve running or prolonged standing due to discomfort. These signs can indicate that the structure of the foot is influencing stability and alignment.

There are several causes and risk factors associated with pediatric flatfoot. Genetics is one of the most common influences, as children may inherit flexible foot structures or low arches from family members. Additional contributors include ligament laxity, muscle weakness, or differences in bone development. Excess body weight can increase stress on the feet and contribute to arch flattening. In some cases, flat feet may be linked to underlying neurological or developmental conditions that affect coordination and muscle control.

While flat feet are often a normal part of early development, ongoing symptoms should not be overlooked. Early recognition and evaluation can support proper alignment and help prevent long-term strain on the feet and lower extremities. If your child is experiencing discomfort or difficulty with movement, it is suggested you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and guidance on appropriate care and management.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact One of our podiatrists from Diagnostic Foot Specialists. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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

Foot blisters can develop from a surprising range of factors beyond simple rubbing. Wearing poorly fitting footwear often creates pressure points, while damp conditions from sweat or external moisture soften the skin and make it more vulnerable. Increased activity, especially when breaking in new shoes, can quickly irritate sensitive areas. Certain skin issues, including fungal infections, dermatitis, or reactions to materials, may also trigger blister formation. Environmental extremes such as heat or cold can damage the skin and lead to fluid-filled pockets. Changes in foot shape or walking patterns can shift pressure to unfamiliar areas, increasing risk. While some blisters heal on their own, others may become painful or infected without proper care. If you notice recurring issues with blisters on your feet or slow healing, it is wise to seek professional advice. It is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist to keep your feet healthy, comfortable, and ready for daily activity.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact One of our podiatrists of Diagnostic Foot Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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

Shooting pain in the feet often feels sharp, sudden, and electric. It may travel through the foot or into the toes. Some people notice tingling, numbness, or burning pain. Shooting pain in the foot often points to an irritated or damaged nerve, but it can also result from issues in the bones or soft tissues. The location of the pain and how it spreads can help identify the underlying cause. Common causes include Morton’s neuroma, which is thickened tissue around a nerve, and tarsal tunnel syndrome, where a nerve is squeezed near the ankle. Nerve problems from the lower back can also send pain into the feet. Other causes include stress fractures, which are small bone cracks, and tendon irritation from overuse. A podiatrist can examine the foot, check nerve function, and use imaging to find the source. Treatment may include custom orthotics, certain exercises, and targeted care to reduce pressure and improve movement. If you frequently experience shooting foot pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with One of our podiatrists from Diagnostic Foot Specialists. Our doctors 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 offices located in Houston, TX, Houston, TX, and Bryan, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.