Items filtered by date: August 2025

Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, in the feet is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks joint tissues, causing inflammation, pain, and stiffness. Symptoms include swelling, tenderness, joint deformities, and difficulty walking. Causes are linked to immune system dysfunction, while risk factors include genetics and smoking. Over time, RA can damage cartilage and bone, leading to loss of mobility and chronic discomfort. A podiatrist can help by managing symptoms with custom orthotics, supportive footwear, and joint protection strategies. They can also provide advice on exercises to maintain flexibility. If foot pain or stiffness from RA is affecting daily life, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can guide you toward effective relief and management tips.

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 Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM of Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors 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 our office located in Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the feet and toes, producing symptoms such as red, flaky, or cracked skin, especially between the toes or on the soles. Athlete’s foot may also cause soggy or peeling areas, burning or stinging sensations, and itching that worsens after removing socks or shoes. In some cases, painful blisters or ulcers that leak fluid may appear. There are three main types of athlete’s foot. Toe web infections usually begin between the fourth and fifth toes and may cause peeling, rash-like redness, and, in severe cases, green discoloration or foul-smelling discharge. Moccasin infections often begin with soreness and dry, cracked skin on the soles and heels and can cause thickened or discolored toenails that loosen or fall off. Vesicular infections involve small, fluid-filled blisters on the soles or other areas of the feet, and may lead to open sores or bacterial infection. A podiatrist can determine the type of athlete’s foot infection and recommend appropriate care. If you have any of these symptoms, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment options.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM from Limons Foot & Ankle Care.  Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The fast, high-impact nature of tennis places significant strain on the feet. Rapid side-to-side movements, abrupt stops, and quick takeoffs can result in problems such as ligament sprains, overuse injuries, stress fractures, and painful heel or arch conditions. Hard playing surfaces can intensify pressure on the joints, and shoes lacking proper support may leave feet vulnerable. Continuous directional changes also challenge ankle stability, increasing the risk of injury. Choosing tennis footwear designed for cushioning and strong lateral support is an important step in protection. Strengthening and stretching the lower legs and feet can further enhance resilience. Players should watch for early signs of discomfort and rest when needed to prevent long-term issues. If soreness, swelling, or persistent foot pain occurs after playing, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM from Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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

Ingrown toenails develop when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, often causing pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. This common problem usually affects the big toe and can result from trimming toenails too short or rounding the corners, which encourages the nail to curve inward as it grows. Wearing tight shoes or socks that crowd the toes can also increase the risk. To help prevent ingrown toenails, trim your toenails straight across, avoiding rounded edges. Keep nails at a moderate length, as nails that are too short are more likely to dig into the skin. Choose shoes that provide enough room in the toe area to avoid unnecessary pressure on your nails. Keeping your feet clean and dry may also help reduce risk. If you experience ongoing discomfort or signs of infection from an ingrown toenail, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM of Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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