There is no mistaking the pain that comes from having gout. There are people that develop gout who experience pain that is so debilitating that they may not be able to walk up the steps. Gout is considered to be a form of arthritis that can happen from genetic reasons, or from eating foods that have high levels of purines. These types of foods include excessive amounts of shellfish, red meat, or drinks that are made with large amounts of sugar. This may cause a build-up of uric acid in the blood, which converts into crystals, and can lodge in the joints of the big toe. People who have existing medical conditions may be prone to getting gout. These can include high blood pressure, diabetes, or who are overweight. Gout attacks can be prevented by incorporating healthy lifestyle habits into the daily regime. This can consist of engaging in a gentle stretching and exercise program, and drinking plenty of water. Additionally, it is important to include fruits and vegetables in the meals, while limiting foods with excess purines. If you have developed gout, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer you treatment and prevention techniques.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

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 one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Bronx, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The way you walk can affect the health of your feet and other parts of the body. If your foot rolls outward when you walk it puts extra pressure on the outside of the feet. This action is termed supination, and it can induce pain as well as increase the chance of injury. Supination is thought to be caused by having a high arch and can be worsened if your footwear does not offer the proper support. Pain from supination can be felt in the feet, ankles, knees, hips, and lower back. It also increases the chances of sprains, strains, and shin splints. It has been found that certain orthotics can help to overcome this gait abnormality.  Features that can help reduce the pain include arch support to keep the foot from rolling outward, a deep heel cup to help stabilize the heel, and extra cushioning for the foot. It is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can examine your feet and create custom orthotics that will help counteract the problems of supination.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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

Many people do not take proper care of their feet during the colder months and a condition known as cracked heels may develop. The leading cause of cracked heels during the colder months is due to dry skin. Cracked heels can also arise from standing on hard surfaces for most of the day as well as wearing shoes with an open back. The aging process may also affect cracked heels because of the loss of skin elasticity. Existing medical conditions like eczema, psoriasis, athlete’s foot, and diabetes may lead to cracked heels. Deep cracks are called fissures and they may bleed and become infected. Additionally, people who are overweight may be prone to developing cracked heels, which adds extra pressure to the heels. If you suffer from cracked heels, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can prescribe medication for complete relief.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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