Items filtered by date: March 2025

Feet endure constant pressure throughout the day, leading to soreness and fatigue. Wearing the right shoes with proper support and cushioning helps reduce strain and prevents discomfort. Shoes that fit well and provide arch support can make a significant difference in foot health. Walking barefoot on hard surfaces can increase stress on the feet, so wearing supportive footwear indoors can help maintain comfort. Stretching regularly keeps the muscles flexible and reduces tension, especially after long periods of standing or walking. Foot exercises, such as toe curls and ankle rotations, strengthen the muscles and improve circulation. If your feet are frequently fatigued, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you additional effective methods to relieve tired feet.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with James P. Huish, DPM from Arizona. Our doctors 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 Safford and Sierra Vista, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Charcot foot is a serious condition that affects the bones, joints, and soft tissues of the foot and ankle. It is most common in people with diabetes who have peripheral neuropathy. Charcot foot leads to inflammation that weakens the bones, making them more prone to fractures and dislocations. Because neuropathy reduces sensation, people may continue walking on an injured foot without realizing the extent of the damage. Over time, this can cause severe deformities, such as a collapsed arch, known as a rocker-bottom foot. Symptoms often include swelling, warmth, redness, and changes in foot shape. Without proper treatment, Charcot foot can increase the risk of wounds and infection, which may lead to limb loss. A podiatrist can assess the condition using imaging studies and clinical evaluations. Treatment typically involves immobilization with a cast or brace to prevent further damage. In more severe cases, surgery may be needed to restore foot stability and function. If you believe you have symptoms of Charcot foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact James P. Huish, DPM of Arizona. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

• Freiberg’s disease
• Kohler’s disease
• Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

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