Ankylosing spondylitis is a long-term form of arthritis that causes inflammation in the body. It often affects the spine, but it can also involve the feet. This condition includes inflammation where tendons attach to bone and can lead to heel pain. The plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue on the bottom of the foot, may become irritated and cause discomfort while walking. The Achilles tendon at the back of the heel can also become inflamed, leading to stiffness and swelling. Some people notice pain after rest or during the first steps of the day. Such ongoing inflammation may affect foot movement and balance. A podiatrist can evaluate foot pain and order imaging to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment options include custom orthotics, bracing, and targeted treatment to reduce strain. If you have foot problems as a result of ankylosing spondylitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly.  If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact Braden Jenkins, DPM from The Ridge Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.

Systemic Diseases of the Feet

Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable.  Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.

Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.

Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.

Diabetes of the Feet

Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.

Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet. 

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

Sever’s disease is a heel condition that affects active growing children, most often between the ages of nine and 14. It develops in the growth plate of the heel, which is a softer area of bone that has not yet hardened. During growth spurts, bones can lengthen faster than muscles and tendons. This can cause the calf muscle and Achilles tendon to tighten and pull on the back of the child’s heel. Repeated stress from running and jumping can irritate this area and lead to pain and swelling. Symptoms include heel pain during activity, limping, or discomfort when rising onto the toes. A podiatrist can examine the foot, assess tendon tightness, and determine the exact cause of the pain. Imaging may be used to rule out other problems. If your active child complains of heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate relief tips. 

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Braden Jenkins, DPM from The Ridge Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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

Arch pain can make walking and standing uncomfortable and interfere with daily activities. Arch pain often develops from muscle or ligament strain, overuse, and flat feet. Other causes include arthritis, weight changes, or shoes that do not provide enough support. Pain in the arch can also result from poor foot alignment, which places extra stress on the soft tissues. A podiatrist begins by examining the foot, reviewing symptoms, and ordering imaging to find the cause. Custom orthotics, which are shoe inserts made to support the arch and improve foot alignment, may be prescribed. Bracing or a walking boot may be used to reduce strain and aid healing. Supportive shoes with strong soles can also help reduce pressure on the arch. In cases of severe structural foot problems, surgery may be required. If you have pain in the arch of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for expert advice and guidance.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Braden Jenkins, DPM from The Ridge Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe when the joint shifts out of alignment. Bunions can lead to pain, swelling, and difficulty with footwear. Ballet can place significant stress on this area, especially during movements that require standing on the toes or working in tight, structured shoes. The pressure from pointe work and repetitive strain can worsen the deformity over time. Limited space in ballet shoes may also increase friction and discomfort around the joint. Dancers often continue training despite early symptoms, which can lead to increased irritation and progression of the condition. Proper footwear fitting, strength exercises, and early management can help reduce strain. If pain or changes in foot shape develop, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help manage symptoms, and support long-term foot health while continuing to dance.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Braden Jenkins, DPM of The Ridge Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor 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 Idaho Falls, ID . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.