Items filtered by date: March 2026

Rheumatoid arthritis is a long-term autoimmune disease that can strongly affect the feet and ankles. An autoimmune disease means the immune system, which normally protects the body, mistakenly attacks healthy joint tissue. In rheumatoid arthritis, this attack causes inflammation in the thin lining inside joints. As swelling continues, joints in the toes, mid-foot, and ankles may become painful, stiff, and unstable. People may notice warmth, redness, or difficulty walking, especially in the morning. Over time, the condition can change foot shape, leading to deformities such as drifting toes or flattened arches. Tendons, which are strong bands that help move the foot, may also weaken. Because symptoms can develop slowly and resemble other problems, proper diagnosis is important. A podiatrist can perform a detailed exam, review imaging or blood test results, and develop a care plan to protect joint function and mobility. If you are experiencing foot pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

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 Howard Kimmel, DPM of Buckeye Foot Care. 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 one of our offices located in Brook Park and Willoughby Hills, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A diabetic foot ulcer is an open sore or wound that develops on the foot as a serious complication of diabetes-related nerve damage and poor circulation. Reduced sensation in the feet may prevent a person from noticing small injuries, which can gradually develop into ulcers if untreated. Symptoms include redness, drainage, swelling, and slow-healing skin breakdown. Risk factors involve long-term diabetes, nerve-related changes, reduced blood flow, wearing poorly-fitted footwear, and inadequate foot care. Proper care includes daily foot inspections, maintaining clean and dry skin, supportive footwear, and seeking early medical attention for any skin changes. A podiatrist can evaluate circulation, treat wounds, and guide preventive care. If you have diabetes and if foot wounds or skin changes appear, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious condition.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Howard Kimmel, DPM from Buckeye Foot Care. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Brook Park and Willoughby Hills, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot pain during pregnancy is common, and can develop for several reasons. As body weight increases, added pressure is placed on the arches, heels, and forefoot. This weight-related stress may lead to arch strain and heel discomfort. Hormone-related changes also play a role. Increased levels of relaxing cause ligaments to become more flexible, which can reduce joint stability and contribute to flat-foot development. Swelling is another frequent concern. Fluid retention may cause tightness, tingling, or nerve-related discomfort, especially later in pregnancy. Changes in posture and balance can shift weight distribution, leading to ankle strain and forefoot pressure. Some women also notice that previously supportive shoes no longer feel comfortable due to foot-size changes. Wearing well-fitting, supportive footwear and using custom-made orthotics may reduce symptoms. Early evaluation can prevent long-term problems. If you have persistent foot pain during pregnancy, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for proper guidance.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Howard Kimmel, DPM from Buckeye Foot Care. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Brook Park and Willoughby Hills, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Midfoot arthritis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the joints in the middle of the foot, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Common symptoms include swelling, tenderness, and discomfort while walking or standing for extended periods. The pain often worsens with activity and may make daily tasks difficult to complete. Risk factors include previous foot injuries, repetitive stress, obesity, and aging, all of which can accelerate joint wear. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity of midfoot arthritis, recommend supportive footwear or custom orthotics, provide anti-inflammatory treatments, and develop a plan to preserve joint function. If you have any type of foot arthritis, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you with effective relief and management tips.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Howard Kimmel, DPM from Buckeye Foot Care. Our doctor 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 one of our offices located in Brook Park and Willoughby Hills, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Ingrown toenails are often blamed on trimming habits or wearing tight shoes, but underlying foot structure can sometimes influence how often the problem returns. In most cases, changes to overall foot alignment are not needed to prevent or manage this condition. Many people develop ingrown nails despite having otherwise typical foot mechanics. There are situations, however, where a flattened arch changes how pressure is distributed across the forefoot. This altered loading can increase stress along the edges of the toenails, especially while walking or standing for long periods of time. Gradually, that added pressure may worsen nail irritation or make healing more difficult after treatment. Addressing footwear, nail care, and pressure relief usually remains the primary focus, but structural factors may be considered in select cases. If ingrown toenails are persistent or painful, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Howard Kimmel, DPM of Buckeye Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Brook Park and Willoughby Hills, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.