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Arthritis blog

All About Arthritis

What do you know about arthritis? Unfortunately, most people don’t know enough about this condition until they are diagnosed. Patients who have arthritis in their feet or ankles experience significant joint pain and swelling, which often leads to pain. This can make daily activities harder to accomplish and diminish the quality of your life. What do you need to know about living with arthritis? Keep reading to find out.

Myth Busting

There are many forms and causes, but it is a myth that only seniors have this condition. Juvenile arthritis is another form you should be aware of. Unfortunately, children can experience pain and stiffness in their joints. If you have noticed new changes to your ankles and feet, make an appointment with your podiatrist. It’s best to get a diagnosis.

Should I Skip My Workout?

No, physical activity is one of the best ways to relieve joint pain. We recommend consulting with your doctor to hear their recommendation for an exercise plan. Gentle movements are best; we remind patients to take on new activities one day at a time. It’s even okay to break up your activity throughout the day.

How Can I Treat My Condition?

For light cases, you can treat the pain caused by arthritis through rest, elevation, and immobilization to halt pain and allow damage to heal. In more serious cases, arthritis can cause severe deformities, which may require surgery. Here are the most common treatments:

  • Physical therapy and exercise to increase strength and function
  • Anti-inflammatory medication and steroid injections prescribed by your doctor
  • Massages
  • Foot soaks and ice application
  • Orthotics or prescribed footwear

At New England Podiatry Associates, Dr. Ronald Etskovitz, Dr. Raymond Murano III, Dr. Catherine Jacobs, Dr. Joshua Ouellette, and Dr. Zachary Sax, treat various foot and ankle conditions. Equipped with a board-certified podiatrist team, we offer two convenient locations to provide excellent care for patients in Norfolk, Suffolk, and Middlesex Counties. Contact our Chestnut Hill office at 617-232-1752 and our Newton-Wellesley office at 617-630-8280. We are still offering a telemedicine option for your safety and convenience.

Categories
Arthritis blog

Arthritis and Podiatrists

Did you know May is Arthritis Awareness Month? Arthritis occurs when joints are swollen or tender, and the most common forms are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. This condition can also impact children. If you have been diagnosed with one of the many forms, the New England Podiatry Associates are here to help. Podiatrists are often a part of the care team, particularly when joint pain occurs in a patient’s feet or ankles.

Here are three benefits of making an appointment with a podiatrist:

1. All eyes are on your feet and ankles

Podiatrists specialize in treating feet and ankles. You are in the best hands when you make an appointment. To understand more about the cause of your joint pain, a podiatrist will ask questions and perform an exam. They will then offer relief solutions, from physical therapy to the proper footwear for exercise.

2. All hands are on deck

Between your primary care physician, your podiatrists, and other specialists, it is helpful to know you have a team of specialists working to improve your quality of life. It takes teamwork, and podiatrists are here to help you win.

3. All appointments are valuable

From checking in to prescribing custom orthotics, you can always benefit from a visit to the podiatrist. Many people think corns, bunions, and fungal toenails are the only reasons to make an appointment. Podiatrists care about the overall health of your body, including ways a condition can affect your feet and ankles.

We’re here to help answer any questions — whether you have managed arthritis for years or recently been diagnosed. At New England Podiatry Associates, Dr. Michael Hass, Dr. Alan Green, Dr. Stephen Tubridy, Dr. Ronald Etskovitz, Dr. Raymond Murano III, and Dr. Catherine Jacobs treat various conditions such as sports injuries, foot and ankle pain, pediatric foot care, ingrown toenails, and flat feet. Equipped with a board-certified podiatrist team, we offer two convenient locations to provide excellent care for patients in Norfolk, Suffolk, and Middlesex Counties. Contact our Chestnut Hill office at 617-232-1752 and our Newton-Wellesley office at 617-630-8280. We are still offering a telemedicine option for your safety and convenience.