Items filtered by date: October 2024
Everything You Need to Know About Gout
Gout, typically found in diabetic patients, is an unusually painful form of arthritis caused by elevated levels of uric acid in the bloodstream. The condition typically strikes the big joint on the big toe. It has also been known to strike the knees, elbows, fingers, ankles and wrists—generally anywhere that has a functioning, moving joint.
The high level of uric acid in a person’s bloodstream creates the condition known as hyperuricema—the main cause of gout. Genetic predisposition occurs in nine out of ten sufferers. The children of parents who suffer gout will have a two in ten chance of developing the condition as well.
This form of arthritis, being particularly painful, is the leftover uric acid crystallizing in the blood stream. The crystallized uric acid then travels to the space between joints where they rub, causing friction when the patient moves. Symptoms include: pain, redness, swelling, and inflammation. Additional side effects may include fatigue and fever, although reports of these effects are very rare. Some patients have reported that pain may intensify when the temperature drops, such as when you sleep.
Most cases of gout are easily diagnosed by a podiatrist’s assessment of the various symptoms. Defined tests can also be performed. A blood test to detect elevated levels of uric acid is often used as well as an x-ray to diagnose visible and chronic gout.
Treatment for gout simply means eliminating symptoms. Non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs (Colchicine and other corticosteroid drugs, etc.) will quell the redness, the swelling, and the inflammation. However, managing your diet, lifestyle changes, and using preventative drugs are all helpful toward fully combating the most severe cases.
Those that lead an inactive lifestyle are at a higher risk for gout. Any amount of exercise decreases the probability of repeat encounters with the condition. Reducing your consumption of red meat, sea food, and fructose-sweetened drinks also reduces the likelihood of chronic gout as well.
Ingesting Vitamin C, coffee, and particular dairy products can help with maintaining a healthy lifestyle. There are new drugs out on the market that inhibit the body’s production of uric acid-producing enzymes. However, reducing or eliminating your overall levels of uric acid is the best remedy to ensuring you lead a gout-free life.
Managing Gout
Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis characterized by sudden and severe pain, redness, and swelling in the joints, often affecting the big toe. Gout can cause excruciating pain and discomfort and may cause difficulty in walking. This condition arises from elevated levels of uric acid in the blood, which can form crystals in the joints and lead to intense inflammation. Diet plays a critical role in managing gout, and certain foods should be avoided to reduce the risk of flare-ups. High-purine foods, which can increase uric acid levels, include red meat, organ meats, and certain seafood such as sardines and anchovies. Sugary beverages and alcohol, particularly beer, can also worsen symptoms. Additionally, excessive consumption of processed foods can contribute to inflammation. By avoiding these dietary triggers and focusing on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, individuals can help manage gout more effectively and reduce the frequency of painful episodes. If you have episodes of gout, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you manage this condition.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact One of our podiatrists from Battle Creek Foot & Ankle. 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 Battle Creek, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Flat Feet
Flatfoot is a foot condition in which the arch of the foot has either partially or totally dropped or has never developed. While it is common in babies and small children, it can become a problem for them in adulthood if the arch never forms. For adults, the development of flat feet can be brought upon by injury, as a result of pregnancy due to increased elasticity, or obesity. Those who have health concerns such as rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes may also be at greater risk for developing the condition.
If you suspect that you have flat feet, it is best to consult your podiatrist. Your foot doctor will examine the suspected foot and observe how it looks while you sit and stand. He or she may take an X-ray to determine how serious the condition is. Some common signs of flatfoot include toe drift, in which the toes and front part of the foot point outward, a short Achilles tendon, and a heel that tilts outwardly while the ankle tilts inward.
Once flatfoot has been diagnosed, your podiatrist may suggest one of several treatment options. Flat feet can be rigid, in which the feet appear to have no arch even when the person is not standing; or flexible, in which the person appears to have an arch while not standing, but once standing the arch disappears. Those with flexible flatfoot may be told to reduce any activities that cause pain and to avoid extended periods of walking or standing. Another suggestion may be weight loss, as excessive weight may be placing pressure on the arches
In few cases, if the condition is severe and all other methods have been exhausted surgery may be required. This is normally avoided, however, due to a lengthy recovery time and high cost.
Flat Feet in Children
Flat feet, also known as pes planus, occur when the arch on the inside of the foot is lower than usual. Many children have flat feet until they are about five to eight years old, when natural development of the foot’s arch typically begins. By the age of 10, only about four percent of children still have flat feet. There are two main types, flexible and rigid flatfoot. Flexible flatfoot is common and usually painless, allowing an arch to appear when standing on tiptoes. In contrast, rigid flatfoot is less common, often causing stiffness and pain due to abnormal bone structure. While flexible flat feet rarely require treatment, rigid flatfoot may require an evaluation. A podiatrist can assess the condition, suggest supportive footwear, and if necessary, prescribe custom orthotics to ease discomfort. If your child has problematic flatfoot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.
Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact One of our podiatrists from Battle Creek Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Are Flat Feet?
Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.
Conditions & Problems:
Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.
Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.
Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.
Symptoms
- Pain around the heel or arch area
- Trouble standing on the tip toe
- Swelling around the inside of the ankle
- Flat look to one or both feet
- Having your shoes feel uneven when worn
Treatment
If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Battle Creek, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Foot Orthotics
Orthotics are shoe inserts that are meant to correct an irregular walking gait or provide cushioning to the feet. Orthotics come in a variety of different models and sizes, including over-the-counter and customizable variants. Customizable orthotics can be shaped and contoured to fit inside a specific shoe and are typically prescribed through a podiatrist who specializes in customized footwear and orthotics design and management.
Orthotics are beneficial because they can help prevent injuries from occurring and provide cushioning to keep pain levels down to a minimum. They also allow for the correct positioning of the feet. Orthotics can act as shock absorbers to help remove pressure from the foot and ankle. Therefore, orthotics can make bodily movements, such as walking and running, become more comfortable as well as help prevent the development of certain foot conditions.
Orthotics alleviate pain and make the foot more comfortable by slightly altering the angle at which the foot strikes the ground surface, therefore controlling the movement of the foot and ankle. Orthotics come in different variants and can be made of various materials. To determine what type of orthotic is most suited to your feet and your needs, it is best to consult your podiatrist. He or she will be able to recommend a type of orthotic that can help improve your foot function or prescribe a custom orthotic to best fit your feet.
Orthotics for Symptomatic Flexible Flatfoot in Children
Symptomatic flexible flatfoot is a condition in children where the arch of the foot flattens while standing or walking but reappears when the foot is at rest. Unlike the more common flexible flatfoot, which typically does not cause problems, symptomatic flexible flatfoot leads to pain, discomfort, or difficulty in walking and running. Children with this condition may experience fatigue, tenderness, and aching in the feet or ankles, often limiting their physical activity. Orthotics can be a valuable solution for managing symptomatic flexible flatfoot. These inserts support the arch and correct foot alignment, helping to distribute weight more evenly across the foot. By doing so, they reduce strain on muscles and joints, relieving pain and preventing the progression of the condition. If your child has pain from flat feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist to see if orthotics can relieve discomfort and promote healthier foot development.
If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact One of our podiatrists from Battle Creek Foot & Ankle. 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 Battle Creek, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Investing in Custom Orthotics Means Investing in Foot Health
Custom orthotics offer a tailored approach to foot health, providing a host of benefits that extend far beyond conventional shoe inserts. One of the primary advantages lies in their ability to address specific biomechanical issues. Unlike off-the-shelf inserts, custom orthotics are crafted based on an individual's unique foot structure, gait, and any existing foot conditions.
The personalized design of custom orthotics ensures optimal support for the arches, promoting proper alignment and distributing pressure evenly across the feet. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals dealing with issues such as overpronation or underpronation, as custom orthotics help correct imbalances that may lead to discomfort or injury.
Beyond biomechanics, custom orthotics can alleviate a range of foot problems, including plantar fasciitis, bunions, and metatarsalgia. They provide targeted relief to areas under stress, reducing pain and inflammation. Additionally, for those with specific medical conditions like diabetes, custom orthotics can play a crucial role in preventing complications associated with poor foot health.
Comfort is another key aspect of custom orthotics. By accommodating the unique contours of an individual's feet, these inserts enhance overall comfort, making daily activities more enjoyable. Whether for athletes looking to optimize performance or individuals seeking relief from chronic foot pain, custom orthotics offer a versatile solution.
Investing in custom orthotics is an investment in long-term foot health. They not only provide immediate relief but also contribute to the prevention of future issues. With the ability to seamlessly integrate into various types of footwear, custom orthotics empower individuals to prioritize foot comfort without compromising on style. In essence, custom orthotics are a personalized prescription for happy, healthy, and pain-free feet.
Custom Orthotics for People With Lower Limb Conditions
Custom-made orthotics provide essential support for individuals with lower limb conditions, addressing various biomechanical issues that can lead to pain and dysfunction. These specialized insoles are tailored to each patient’s unique foot structure and gait pattern, ensuring targeted relief for conditions such as plantar fasciitis, flat feet, knee pain, and lower back issues. For those with lower limb conditions like arthritis, tendonitis, or muscle imbalances, custom orthotics help correct abnormal foot positioning, which in turn improves alignment throughout the lower body. By redistributing pressure and providing necessary support, they can reduce strain on joints and tendons, promoting better movement and comfort during daily activities. If you are someone with foot or ankle discomfort, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and discussion of whether custom orthotics can help you.
If you are experiencing discomfort in your feet and would like to try custom orthotics, contact One of our podiatrists from Battle Creek Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Are Custom Orthotics?
Custom 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.
Over-the-Counter Inserts
Shoe inserts come in a wide variety and 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, custom 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're experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibility of using custom orthotics or shoe inserts. A podiatrist can determine which type of custom orthotic or shoe insert is right for you and help you take the first steps toward being pain-free.
If you have any questions please contact our office located in Battle Creek, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Heel Pain
Have you ever gotten up from a chair or out of bed in the morning, and upon taking that first step, feel like your heel has stepped on a tack? Many people experience a feeling of sharp pain which radiates into their arch from their heel and which does not allow them to put their heel on the floor. Sometimes they need to sit back down, stand only on their toes and use the wall for balance. If you can take a few steps, it seems to go away and lessen, allowing you to then resume your activity. Later, throughout your day and after a period of rest, it can happen again. If this sounds familiar you may be suffering from your first attack of heel pain.
Heel pain is a debilitating condition that affects day to day activities. Running and walking both causes stress on the heel because the heel is the part of the foot that hits the ground first. This means that the heel is taking on your entire weight. Diagnosis and treatments for heel pain can be easily found through your podiatrist.
Plantar Fasciitis
One of the main causes of heel pain is a condition known as plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissue that extends along the bottom of the foot, from the toe to the bottom of the heel. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of these tissues, resulting in heel pain. People who do not wear proper fitting shoes are often at risk of developing problems such as plantar fasciitis. Unnecessary stress from ill-fitting shoes, weight change, excessive running, and wearing non-supportive shoes on hard surfaces are all causes of plantar fasciitis.
Achilles Tendonitis
Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Similar to plantar fasciitis, inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause heel pain due to stress fractures and muscle tearing. A lack of flexibility of the ankle and heel is an indicator of Achilles tendonitis. If left untreated, this condition can lead to plantar fasciitis and cause even more pain on your heel.
Heel Spur
A third cause of heel pain is a heel spur. A heel spur occurs when the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, leading to a separation of the ligament from the heel bone entirely. This results in a pointed fragment of bone on the ball of the foot, known as a heel spur.
Causes of Heel Pain
Heel pain is a common issue, often caused by various conditions, including plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, heel spurs, and bursitis. Plantar fasciitis, one of the most frequent causes, results in stabbing pain due to inflammation in the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue connecting the heel to the toes. Pain is often felt first thing in the morning or after periods of inactivity. Achilles tendinitis occurs from overuse or strain on the Achilles tendon, causing pain at the back of the heel. Heel spurs are calcium deposits that develop over time and can lead to sharp pain with movement. Bursitis is inflammation of the bursa, small fluid-filled sacs that cushion bones, which can cause tenderness and discomfort in the heel. Treatment for heel pain depends on the cause but may include wearing supportive footwear or medical intervention like injections. If you have persistent heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact One of our podiatrists of Battle Creek Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Causes of Heel Pain
Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.
Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.
Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.
Why Might Heel Pain Occur?
- Wearing ill-fitting shoes
- Wearing non-supportive shoes
- Weight change
- Excessive running
Treatments
Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.
If you have any questions please contact our office located in Battle Creek, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
