Items filtered by date: April 2026

Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory condition that can significantly affect the feet, often causing pain, swelling, and joint damage. It frequently targets the forefoot, where the toes meet the foot, leading to stiffness and difficulty walking. Ongoing inflammation can weaken the supporting tissues, causing deformities like bunions and claw toes, which are toes that bend into an abnormal position. This can also lead to joint shifting or dislocation, making standing and movement painful. Thick areas of skin may form under pressure points, adding to discomfort. A podiatrist can evaluate joint alignment, order imaging, and create a treatment plan. This may include custom orthotics, bracing, or surgery to improve stability and reduce pain. Early care can help limit long-term joint damage. If you have symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis in your feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

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 Summerlin Foot & Ankle. 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 office located in Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

As people get older, the smaller muscles in the foot can weaken as part of age-related muscle loss. These muscles help the toes bend and grip the ground during walking. When they lose strength, the toes may not press down as well, which can affect balance and control with each step. This may make walking feel less steady and can increase the risk of trips or falls. The change is often gradual and may go unnoticed until movement becomes more difficult. Wearing supportive shoes, simple strengthening exercises, and balance training can help improve stability and confidence. Paying attention to early signs, such as toe weakness or changes in walking pattern, can make a difference, over time. If you feel less steady on your feet or notice reduced toe strength, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an evaluation and guidance.

If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists of Summerlin Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.

It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.

Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities. 

Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.

Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.

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

Fungal infections can cause the toenails to become thickened, discolored, and brittle over time. The toenail may appear yellow, white, or even darkened, and its surface can look uneven or crumbly. Some patients notice a buildup of debris beneath the nail or a separation from the nail bed. While the condition is often painless at first, it can lead to discomfort as the toenail thickens or presses against footwear. Fungal nails develop when fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, such as sweaty feet. Minor toenail injuries or a weakened immune system are other factors. A podiatrist can confirm the diagnosis through examination and testing if needed. Treatment includes topical or oral antifungal medication, as well as professional toenail care to reduce thickness and improve appearance. Addressing the infection early can help prevent its spread to other nails. If you are dealing with fungal toenails, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Summerlin Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

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

Achilles tendonitis causes pain and swelling in the tendon at the back of the heel. The Achilles tendon is a strong cord that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It can become irritated when it is overused or placed under too much stress. This might result from starting a new training program or attempting to resume a normal activity level after an injury. As calf muscles tighten they can increase tension on the tendon and lead to small tears in its fibers. Certain shoes also can contribute to Achilles tendonitis. Age, weight, and certain health conditions may further increase the risk. Pain may occur in the middle of the tendon or where it attaches to the heel. A podiatrist can identify the cause, evaluate movement, and provide treatment to reduce strain. If you are experiencing Achilles tendon pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Summerlin Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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