Items filtered by date: March 2026

Foot pain can occur after long hours of standing, sports activity, or wearing shoes that do not fit well. Sometimes the pain improves, but ongoing discomfort may be a sign of arthritis. This inflammatory joint condition causes swelling, stiffness, and reduced movement. The foot has many small joints that help support body weight and allow smooth walking. When arthritis affects these joints, pain may worsen with activity or after periods of rest. Osteoarthritis develops when cartilage, the smooth tissue that cushions bones, gradually wears away. Other forms, such as rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis, occur when the immune system attacks joint tissue. Gout is another type of arthritis that causes sudden, intense pain when crystal deposits form in a joint, often in the big toe. A podiatrist can identify the cause of foot pain, assess joint damage, and recommend medical treatment to improve comfort and walking ability. If you are experiencing foot pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot and Ankle Centers, Inc.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Clovis, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Gout is a painful form of arthritis that often affects the big toe joint. It develops when uric acid builds up in the body and forms sharp crystals inside a joint. Uric acid is a waste substance that normally dissolves in the blood and leaves the body through urine. The first stage of gout is called asymptomatic. During this stage, uric acid levels rise, but there are no symptoms. The second stage is acute gout, also known as a gout attack. Sudden pain, swelling, redness, and warmth may occur in the joint, often in the big toe. The third stage is called intercritical gout. Pain disappears during this period, but uric acid may still collect in the joints between attacks. The fourth stage is chronic gout. Large crystal deposits called tophi can form under the skin and may damage joints over time. A podiatrist can diagnose gout, evaluate joint damage, and provide treatment to manage symptoms and protect foot health. If you have symptoms of gout, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot and Ankle Centers, Inc.. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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

Healthy feet are vital for maintaining mobility and independence as we age. Seniors should perform a daily assessment of the feet, checking for redness, swelling, sores, or changes in skin color. Keeping feet clean and thoroughly dry helps prevent fungal infections and skin breakdown. Proper toenail care is equally important, as thick or ingrown nails can lead to discomfort and infection. Additionally, choosing supportive, well-fitting shoes reduces pressure points and lowers the risk of falls. Ongoing health concerns like diabetes require careful monitoring to prevent serious complications. A podiatrist can provide routine evaluations, treat concerns early, and recommend protective footwear. If you are a senior experiencing foot pain, or are caring for an elderly person, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on additional effective daily foot care tips.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot and Ankle Centers, Inc.. Our doctors 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 Clovis, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Running can place repeated pressure on the big toe joint, which is especially challenging for people with bunions. A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe where it connects to the foot. As the big toe shifts inward, the joint becomes enlarged, irritated, and painful during push-off. Standard running shoes with a narrow toe box can increase friction and crowd the toes, worsening discomfort and joint stress. In contrast, running shoes designed for people with bunions often have a wider toe box to reduce rubbing, softer or stretchable upper materials to decrease pressure, and strong arch support to help distribute body weight more evenly across the foot. Proper cushioning can limit strain on the front of the foot. A podiatrist can assess foot structure and recommend appropriate footwear or custom orthotics to improve alignment and reduce pain. If you have foot or ankle pain after running, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and appropriate treatment.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Advanced Foot and Ankle Centers, Inc.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Podiatrists often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your provider.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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

Fungal nails and black toenails are common concerns that can affect both comfort and confidence. A fungal nail often begins as a yellow or white discoloration and may thicken, crumble, or lift from the nail bed over time. The nail can appear brittle and distorted and may feel tender or produce a mild odor. A black toenail is frequently caused by trauma, such as repetitive pressure from running or wearing tight shoes, that leads to bleeding beneath the nail. A fungal toenail can lead to a black toenail, It may look dark purple or black and can feel sore or throbbing. Risk factors include damp environments, shared locker rooms, ill-fitting footwear, injury, and certain medical conditions. A podiatrist can examine the nail and order laboratory testing to confirm infection or rule out other causes. Treatment may include antifungal medication, trimming and debridement, footwear guidance, or minor procedures. If you have fungal nails or a black toenail, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Advanced Foot and Ankle Centers, Inc.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

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