December 2024

Pickleball, the fastest-growing sport in the United States, offers an excellent way for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, to stay active while managing their condition. Unlike tennis or badminton, pickleball’s smaller court and slower pace make it easier on the joints, while still providing a fun, competitive workout. Regular movement is essential for people with RA, as it helps maintain joint flexibility, reduce stiffness, and improve overall mobility. Pairing pickleball with a nutrient-rich, anti-inflammatory diet supports joint health and boosts energy levels, enhancing your ability to play. Proper preparation, including warming up and wearing supportive footwear, is important to avoid strain on affected joints. If you are a pickleball player with rheumatoid arthritis, and if foot pain or joint discomfort becomes an issue, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for personalized care.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact Corinne R. Kauderer, DPM of Dyker Heights Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Brooklyn, NY and Old Bridge, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Toe arthritis is a condition where the joints in the toes become inflamed, causing pain and stiffness. The most common cause is osteoarthritis, which occurs as the cartilage in the toe joints wears down over time, often due to age or repetitive stress. Other causes include rheumatoid arthritis or injury to the toe. Symptoms of toe arthritis include pain in the affected joint, particularly during movement, swelling, and a reduced range of motion. In some cases, the joint may become deformed or misaligned. Relief from toe arthritis involves wearing proper footwear that provides support and cushioning, as well as anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling. Specific exercises can also help improve joint flexibility and strength. In severe cases, surgical options may be considered to restore function and alleviate pain. If you have symptoms of arthritis in your toes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief and management tips.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Corinne R. Kauderer, DPM from Dyker Heights Foot & Ankle. 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 one of our offices located in Brooklyn, NY and Old Bridge, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A broken toe can cause sudden pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking. The toe may appear crooked or misaligned, and in some cases, you might hear a popping sound at the time of injury. Common causes of broken toes include dropping heavy objects on the foot, stubbing your toe, or sports-related accidents. Treatment for a broken toe often involves elevation to reduce swelling and pain. Depending on the severity of the fracture, your podiatrist may recommend buddy taping the toe or using a special shoe to protect it while it heals. In more severe cases, surgery may be needed to realign the bones. While many broken toes can heal on their own, it is important to visit a podiatrist to ensure the injury is properly diagnosed and treated. Improper treatment can lead to long-term pain or deformity. If you think you may have a broken toe, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Corinne R. Kauderer, DPM from Dyker Heights Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Brooklyn, NY and Old Bridge, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Pain on the outside of the ankle is often linked to peroneal tendonitis, a condition caused by inflammation of the peroneal tendons that run along the outer side of the ankle and foot. These tendons play a vital role in stabilizing the ankle and assisting with foot movement. Overuse from repetitive activities like running, jumping, or prolonged standing can irritate the tendons, especially in people with high arches, tight calf muscles, or a history of ankle sprains. Symptoms of peroneal tendonitis include swelling, weakness, pain that worsens with activity, and difficulty moving the foot outward. If left untreated, it can lead to ongoing discomfort and reduced mobility. A podiatrist can evaluate your symptoms, pinpoint the underlying cause, and provide effective treatment options, including activity modifications and bracing to promote healing, preventing further strain. If you have pain on the outside of your ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Corinne R. Kauderer, DPM from Dyker Heights Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Brooklyn, NY and Old Bridge, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

An ankle fracture affects more than just physical mobility. It can have psychological and social impacts too. Physically, an ankle fracture often requires immobilization, leading to muscle weakness, joint stiffness, and challenges with weight-bearing even after healing. Recovery may take months, with targeted exercises needed to regain strength. Psychologically, the prolonged healing process and limited independence may lead to frustration, anxiety, and even depression, especially for active individuals. Fear of re-injury can also affect confidence. Socially, disrupted routines and limited participation in work or hobbies may cause feelings of isolation. If you have sustained an ankle fracture, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist as quickly as possible. This foot and ankle expert can guide you, focusing on both physical and emotional support, to make recovery smoother and help you regain a balanced, active lifestyle post-injury.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Corinne R. Kauderer, DPM from Dyker Heights Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
•  Swelling around the area
•  Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Brooklyn, NY and Old Bridge, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.