The Many Faces of Arthritis

Too many people think arthritis is a single medical condition. Further, there is a common misconception that this source of joint pain and stiffness only happens to older people as a result of wear and tear over time. We believe the key to this misunderstanding is that one of the types of arthritis—the most common one, in fact—does develop in response to wear and tear. It is certainly important to know about that type, but let’s take a look as well at the other arthritic conditions that cause problem for patients’ feet.

The word “arthritis” itself literally means “joint inflammation” and can be applied to over 100 different conditions that lead to joint stiffness and painful symptoms. The most common of these that affect your feet or ankles include:

Osteoarthritis – As we mentioned, the common misconception that arthritis is a single condition is because people associate it with osteoarthritis. This form develops over time due to natural deterioration of the bone linings found within joints.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) – While the first happens in response to natural aging processes, RA is an autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system attacks protective tissues found in the joints. At this time, medical professionals do not completely understand the cause behind rheumatoid arthritis and there is no cure, but there are treatment methods that can relieve painful symptoms.
Gout – This arthritic condition develops in response to a byproduct of food breakdown. Uric acid is the byproduct, and when the body either produces excessive amounts or cannot effectively remove it, the acid deposits into joints, crystalizes, and causes painful flares, most often in the big toe’s first joint.

There are many other arthritic conditions, but these three are most likely to cause an issue in the foot or ankle. If you are experiencing painful, stiff joints in your lower limbs, it is likely that you have one of these forms of the disease and will benefit from the treatment we provide.

Contact Dallas Podiatry Works by calling us at 972.853.7100 and asking any questions you might have. If you’d like, you can also schedule your appointment with either our Dallas or Plano, TX foot doctor offices today using our online form.

The doctor has great “bedside manners” when talking to patients. Great staff and comfortable atmosphere.

Derrick W.

The staff at Dallas Podiatry Works could not have been more courteous, helpful, and professional in doing their job. They made me feel comfortable when I was there, which is certainly appreciated. They answered all the questions that I had and just made each visit the most pleasurable that it could be. I would highly recommend them to anyone needing this type of foot care.

Joseph B.

I would highly recommend Dr. Brook to anyone with foot problems–especially problems that stump other podiatrists. He really is very caring and very knowledgeable.

Jeannette H.

Dr. Joel Brook and the staff were nice and helpful. Though I was a new patient, I got right in as soon as they were open in my preferred location. They diagnosed the problem and provided medicines along with a perfect gel bandage so I could keep exercising while my toes healed. My toes already hurt less and look a little better each day. If I have future issues, I will be a repeat customer. Here’s hoping I don’t, but at least I know my feet are in good hands.

Meryl E.

I visited this office for an ingrown toe nail a few years ago. After seeing another doctor, who made it worse, he referred me to Dallas Podiatry Works. The doctor there was able to fix my problem. I’m not great with reviews, all I can tell you is that this doctor and staff will have you up and running or doing whatever it is you do in no time. You will be in great hands. You’d be a fool not to use this doctor. Now its time to visit him again for the other toe.

Google User

Been having bad ankle pains for 6 months was referred here and it was a great visit ladies in the front desk medical assistants and the Doctor were all very friendly and make you feel very comfortable.