As one ages, osteoarthritis can affect the joints of the feet and ankles, gradually wearing down the cartilage that allows smooth, pain-free movement. As the cushioning thins, bones begin to rub together, leading to soreness, stiffness, and swelling. These symptoms often appear in the midfoot, big toe, or ankle, making walking or standing uncomfortable. Over time, the loss of flexibility can interfere with daily activities and balance. While osteoarthritis cannot be reversed, proper treatment can greatly reduce pain and improve function. A podiatrist can pinpoint which joints are affected and provide solutions such as custom orthotics, footwear guidance, and advanced therapies to ease discomfort. Addressing symptoms early helps preserve mobility and prevent further joint damage. If your feet feel stiff or achy and movement has become more difficult, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for personalized care and long-term comfort.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Desiree Garzon, DPM from County Wide Foot, Ankle, & Wound 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 our offices located in Boynton Beach, and Wellington, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A plantar fibroma is a firm, noncancerous growth that forms within the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot. It can cause pain, discomfort, and difficulty walking, especially when pressure is applied. When conservative treatments fail, surgery may be recommended to remove the fibroma and relieve tension on the surrounding tissue. The procedure involves making an incision in the sole of the foot to carefully remove the fibrous mass while preserving healthy structures. A podiatrist can evaluate the condition, recommend appropriate treatment, and guide recovery after surgery. If you have a plantar fibroma, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can discuss treatment options with you, which may include surgery for permanent removal.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Desiree Garzon, DPM of County Wide Foot, Ankle, & Wound Care. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Morton’s neuroma, also called a plantar digital neuroma, is a painful condition caused by the thickening of tissue around a nerve between the toes, most commonly between the third and fourth toes. It often develops from pressure, irritation, or injury to the nerve. Risk factors include wearing tight shoes or high heels, engaging in high-impact sports, and having foot deformities, such as flat feet or high arches. Many people notice symptoms that may include sharp, burning pain in the ball of the foot, tingling, or the feeling of a pebble inside the shoe. A podiatrist can provide an accurate diagnosis, orthotic support, and treatment options to relieve pain and prevent recurrence. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide effective treatment solutions.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Desiree Garzon, DPM of County Wide Foot, Ankle, & Wound Care. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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