Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals within a joint. It most commonly affects the big toe, although other joints in the foot and ankle can be involved. One of the key signs of gout is sudden, intense pain that often begins at night. The joint may become red, swollen, warm, and extremely tender to the touch. Even the pressure of a bedsheet can feel unbearable. The skin over the area may appear tight or shiny, and walking can become very difficult. Gout attacks can last several days and may return if the underlying uric acid levels are not controlled. Risk factors include diet, dehydration, certain medications, and family history. A podiatrist can evaluate the painful joint, review medical history, and coordinate testing to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation and preventing future attacks. If you have signs of gout, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for proper evaluation and care.

What is Gout?

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals within a joint.

What is Gout?

What is Gout?

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

What Is Gout?

What Is Gout?

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 our offices located in Fair Lawn, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis that commonly affects the foot, especially the big toe, and often appears without warning. It is caused by a buildup of uric acid in the blood, which can form sharp crystals in the joints due to diet, genetics, dehydration, or certain medical conditions. Symptoms include intense pain, swelling, redness, and warmth that may develop overnight. The joint may look shiny, swollen, and inflamed, and it often feels extremely tender to the touch, making walking difficult. A podiatrist can help by starting with a detailed history and physical exam, supported by imaging or lab testing when needed to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment may progress to medication management, footwear guidance, dietary education, and strategies to reduce flare-ups. Early care can limit joint damage and improve mobility. If you have gout, it is suggested that you schedule  an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and management tips.

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

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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 our offices located in Fair Lawn, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

As people age, natural changes in muscle strength, joint flexibility, and balance can affect how they walk. Walking, also called gait, should be smooth, even, and steady. After about age 70, walking speed often slows as steps become shorter, often the result of weaker calf muscles that help move the body forward. Older adults may also keep both feet on the ground a little longer with each step to feel more stable. While some changes in gait are expected, others are not. Uneven steps, shuffling, dragging the toes, leaning forward, or trouble starting to walk may signal problems. These may involve joints, nerves, or certain areas of the brain that control movement and coordination. Arthritis, poor sensation in the feet, and balance disorders can all affect gait. A podiatrist can carefully assess how you stand and walk to help to identify abnormal patterns. Solutions include supportive footwear, custom orthotics, or other treatment to improve stability and comfort. If you experience problems walking normally, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Practice Name. 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 our offices located in Fair Lawn, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet, especially between the toes. It thrives in warm, moist environments such as sweaty shoes and locker rooms. The skin may look red, scaly, or cracked, and some areas can appear white and soggy. Many patients describe persistent itching, burning, or stinging that worsens after removing shoes. In more advanced cases, small blisters or peeling skin may develop, and the infection can spread to the soles or even the toenails. A podiatrist begins with a careful examination of the skin and may take a small sample to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment often includes prescription antifungal medication, guidance on proper foot hygiene, and recommendations for breathable footwear. Early care helps prevent recurrence and secondary bacterial infection. If you have athlete’s foot that does not improve or continues to return, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for proper treatment.

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 one of our podiatrists from Practice Name.  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 offices located in Fair Lawn, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.