Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks healthy joints, leading to inflammation, pain, and stiffness that can affect mobility and daily life. While the exact cause is not always clear, lifestyle factors can influence how the condition develops and progresses. Smoking, obesity, and poor physical activity levels may contribute to more severe symptoms and negative outcomes by increasing inflammation and placing additional stress on the joints. These factors can also impact foot health, making walking and standing more difficult. A podiatrist can help by evaluating foot structure, relieving pressure, and providing supportive care to improve comfort and function. If you have joint pain or stiffness, it is suggested that you seek professional podiatric care for appropriate relief solutions and symptom management tips.

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 Josef Elouze, DPM of Elite Podiatry. Our doctor 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 office located in (Holiday City) Toms River, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition that occurs when cartilage wears down over time, leading to pain and stiffness. In the feet, it often affects joints in the toes and midfoot, making walking uncomfortable. Causes include aging, excess body weight, genetic predisposition, and other forms of arthritis that contribute to joint damage. Symptoms include pain, swelling in foot joints, reduced flexibility, and discomfort that may worsen at night. Persistent foot pain can interfere with daily activities and overall quality of life. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition, recommend supportive footwear, provide custom orthotics, and develop a treatment plan to reduce pain and improve mobility. If you are experiencing ongoing foot discomfort or swelling, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and management solutions.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Josef Elouze, DPM from Elite Podiatry. 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 (Holiday City) Toms River, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Walking shoes and running shoes are built differently to match specific movement patterns and impact levels. Walking shoes often feature a flexible upper, stable midsole, and durable outsole that supports a smooth heel-to-toe motion. Running shoes typically include enhanced cushioning to absorb repeated impact and a more responsive midsole for forward propulsion. Shoe stability is important in both types, and proper fit should include checking for heel slippage and allowing enough toe room. Wearing the correct footwear may help prevent painful foot conditions like plantar fasciitis. A podiatrist can evaluate gait, recommend proper shoes, and provide custom orthotics. If you are experiencing foot pain after walking or running, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot and ankle conditions and guide you on the correct shoes to wear for your desired activity. 

If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact Josef Elouze, DPM from Elite Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.

• Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
• Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
• Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in (Holiday City) Toms River, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot care becomes especially important as people grow older because the skin, joints, and circulation of the feet can change over time. Small problems such as dry skin, thick nails, or poorly fitting shoes can quickly turn into painful conditions if they are not addressed early. Maintaining healthy feet helps support balance, mobility, and independence. One of the most important steps is wearing properly fitting shoes that provide support, cushioning, and enough room for the toes. Shoes that are too tight or worn out can lead to pressure points, blisters, or joint pain. Daily hygiene is also essential. Feet should be washed with mild soap, dried carefully between the toes, and moisturized to prevent cracking skin. Toenails should be trimmed straight across and not cut too short to help avoid ingrown nails. Regular foot checks are helpful for noticing redness, swelling, or skin changes early. If you are experiencing foot discomfort or changes in your feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Josef Elouze, DPM from Elite Podiatry. 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 (Holiday City) Toms River, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.