Items filtered by date: March 2024

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to sudden and severe pain, swelling, and redness, often affecting the big toe. Over time, repeated gout attacks can result in joint damage, deformity, and chronic arthritis. The accumulation of uric acid, a waste product normally excreted by the kidneys, can be attributed to various factors, including genetics and a diet that is high in purines found in red meat, seafood, and alcohol. Additionally, obesity, certain medications and underlying health conditions, such as hypertension and kidney disease, can contribute to developing gout. Lifestyle modifications consisting of maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding purine-rich foods, limiting alcohol consumption, and staying hydrated may help to reduce the risk of developing gout. Failure to manage gout effectively can lead to complications, such as tophi or lumps of uric acid crystals under the skin, kidney stones, and permanent joint damage. If you have gout, it is suggested that you seek medical attention from a podiatrist, adhere to treatments prescribed, and adopt a healthy lifestyle, which are important for preventing and managing gout effectively.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from ABC Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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

Chronic foot ulcers are a challenging complication of diabetes. Diabetic ulcers may arise from a variety of factors, including impaired blood circulation, nerve damage, and high blood sugar levels. These factors collectively compromise the body's ability to heal and fight infection. There are many therapies that podiatrists may use to combat foot ulcers, such as advanced wound care techniques, infection control measures, and strategies to enhance circulation. One key treatment is debridement, which involves the careful removal of dead or infected tissue to promote healing. A podiatrist may apply specialized dressings and topical agents that foster a moist healing environment and support tissue regeneration. Another treatment, called offloading, involves reducing pressure on the ulcer through custom footwear or casts. These are not the only treatments that podiatrists may employ. If you are suffering from chronic foot ulcers due to diabetes, it is suggested you schedule regular appointments with a podiatrist to monitor and treat the condition. 

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from ABC Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Patients often rely on podiatrists to understand how orthotics alleviate pain and prevent injuries. Determining the right orthotic type demands expertise in biomechanics, gait analysis, and understanding the patient's specific condition. Orthotics function by providing support, cushioning, and realignment to the feet, thereby correcting biomechanical abnormalities or imbalances. They distribute pressure evenly, reducing stress on vulnerable areas and promoting proper foot function. By stabilizing the foot and ankle, orthotics can correct issues such as overpronation or supination, which can lead to various foot and lower limb problems if left untreated. Additionally, orthotics can help improve posture and alleviate discomfort in other parts of the body, such as the knees, hips, and lower back. Podiatrists assess patients comprehensively to determine the most suitable orthotic design, material, and level of support to address their specific needs and enhance overall foot health and function. If you have chronic foot pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to determine if orthotics can help you.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact one of our podiatrists from ABC Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Columbus, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Toe health can be connected to overall well-being. Despite this significance, feet are generally not given enough attention. Toe and toenail changes that may signal underlying health issues can include concave toenails, which can indicate anemia or autoimmune disorders, and tingling or numbness, which could be suggestive of diabetes-related neuropathy. Other potential toe issues, such as dark vertical bands or spots, washed out nails, painful and inflamed toe joints, clubbed toes, and cold or blue toes, can each potentially be indicative of different health concerns ranging from melanoma to heart disease. If you have painful toes or notice something not quite right about these appendages, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of ABC Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Columbus, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.