Gout is a form of arthritis that occurs when uric acid builds up in the bloodstream, forming crystals in the joints. It often affects the big toe but can also impact the ankles and other joints. Gout is more common in men, especially those over 40, and people with conditions like obesity, high blood pressure, or diabetes are at a higher risk. Symptoms of gout include sudden, intense pain, swelling, redness, and warmth in the affected joint, often occurring at night. The pain can be excruciating, and even the lightest touch can feel unbearable. Gout attacks typically last for a few days but can recur if untreated. Treatment involves medications to reduce inflammation and lower uric acid levels. Lifestyle changes, such as avoiding alcohol and foods high in purines, are also recommended. A podiatrist can help manage gout symptoms, offer pain relief strategies, and provide advice on footwear. If you are experiencing this condition, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a this type of doctor.
Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.
Symptoms
Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility
Risk Factors
Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout
Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Shepherdsvilleand Louisville, KY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Heel height, heel base, and insole design significantly influence foot health and comfort. High heels can cause undue pressure on the ball of the foot, leading to pain, calluses, and even long-term deformities like bunions or hammertoes. Lower heels, those under two inches, are generally safer, reducing stress on the arch and heel. A wide, stable heel base offers better balance and reduces the risk of ankle sprains, especially in uneven terrain or prolonged standing situations. Narrow heels, like stilettos, increase instability and strain the foot muscles. Insoles play an important role by providing cushioning, arch support, and shock absorption, which are essential for minimizing discomfort and preventing injuries. Orthotic insoles can address specific issues like plantar fasciitis or flat feet. For personalized advice on footwear that supports your unique needs, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist to ensure optimal foot health.
High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Comprehensive Foot & Ankle Centers. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Effects of High Heels on the Feet
High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal. Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.
Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?
Ankle Joints
Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
Balls of the Feet
Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain. The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.
What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?
Corns
Calluses
Hammertoe
Bunions
Morton’s Neuroma
Plantar Fasciitis
How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?
If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems. Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet. Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising. If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work. Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Shepherdsvilleand Louisville, KY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
A pincer, or trumpet, toenail is a condition where the sides of the toenail curve inward, creating a pinched appearance. This can lead to pain, discomfort, and in severe cases, the nail may dig into the skin, causing swelling and redness. It commonly affects the big toe and can result from wearing improper footwear, genetics, or trauma. Symptoms include localized pain, redness, and pressure surrounding the nail, especially when wearing shoes or walking. Over time, the condition can worsen, leading to chronic discomfort and even infections, if left untreated. Treatment options for pincer toenails include trimming the nail properly, using padding or orthotics to reduce pressure, and in some cases, surgical correction to reshape the nail. A podiatrist can assess the severity of the condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment, including minor surgery if needed. If you are experiencing this condition, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a thorough evaluation and care.
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 one of our podiatrists of Comprehensive Foot & Ankle Centers. 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 offices located in Shepherdsvilleand Louisville, KY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
