Gout is a common foot problem characterized by sudden and intense pain, often striking at night without warning. Classic symptoms of gout include localized pain, swelling, redness, heat, and tenderness. While it frequently affects the big toe, other parts of the foot and ankle can also be affected by gout. During flare ups, uric acid crystals accumulate in joints, which causes irritation and triggers inflammation. The condition progresses through three phases. The flare-up phase is a sudden onset of symptoms, usually in one joint initially, but recurrent flare-ups can affect multiple joints over time. The intercritical phase of gout is a symptom-free period between flare ups. However, more than 60 percent of gout sufferers experience repeat attacks within a year. During the tophaceous phase of gout, urate crystals accumulate, leading to the formation of lumps or masses known as tophi. These can erode bone and cartilage, causing damage. Gout treatment focuses on pain relief during flare ups and lowering uric acid levels to prevent future attacks. For treatment from gout, it is suggested that you visit a chiropodist.

Gout is a painful form of arthritis that can affect anyone. Please consult with one of the chiropodists from Complete Family Footcare & Therapy. Our clinicians will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

What Is Gout?

Gout is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. This type of arthritis is caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. When uric acid crystallizes in a joint, often the joint of the big toe, it can bring about a gout attack. 

Symptoms

Symptoms of gout include: 

• Sudden and severe pain

• Swelling

• Redness

• Warmth 

• Joint stiffness

• Joint deformity

Diagnosis

A chiropodist will ask questions about your personal and family medical history, followed by an examination of the affected joint. Laboratory tests and x-rays are sometimes ordered to determine if the inflammation is caused by something other than gout. A sample of fluid taken from your joint can show whether it contains uric acid. 

Treatment

Prescription medications or injections are used to treat the pain, swelling, and inflammation. Patients with chronic gout can also use behavioral modifications such as diet, exercise, and decreased intake of alcohol to help minimize the frequency of gout attacks. Foods and beverages that are high in purines should be avoided since purines are converted in the body to uric acid. If left untreated, this painful condition can leave your joint permanently damaged and swollen.  

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

Walking is usually a pain free activity, but for many people, foot pain can turn every step into a struggle. Plantar fasciitis typically results in stabbing discomfort in the heel or the bottom of the foot, especially during the initial morning steps. Morton’s neuroma involves thickened nerves in the foot, causing sensations such as having a foreign object in the shoe. This can also be accompanied by a tingling or numbing sensation, as well as a burning feeling in the ball of the foot and toes. Turf toe, which is a big toe sprain, causes pain, stiffness, swelling, and bruising, particularly when hyperextended. Bunions occur when the big toe tilts toward the other toes, causing discomfort, especially while wearing tight shoes. Heel pad atrophy occurs when the protective pad under the heel shrinks, leading to pain and callus formation. Arthritis can cause foot pain due to joint deterioration. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms during or after walking, it is suggested that you consult a chiropodist.

Foot pain can have many causes. To receive an accurate diagnosis and treatment for your foot pain, please consult with one of the chiropodists from Complete Family Footcare & Therapy. Our clinicians will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

Causes

There are a variety of different conditions that can cause foot pain, including: 

• Plantar fasciitis

• Deformities, such as bunions or hammertoes

• Injuries to the muscles, bones, tendons, or ligaments in the feet

• Arthritis

• Flat feet

• Ingrown toenails

Symptoms

The type and location of your foot pain can help determine what may be causing it and what type of treatment options are best for you. 

Common types of foot pain include: 

• Heel pain

• Arch pain

• Toe pain

• Ball of foot pain

• Pain that has a stabbing, burning, or tingling quality

• Pain that is constant, intermittent, or that gets better or worse depending on the situation 

Diagnosis

A thorough medical history and physical examination of your feet will be required to determine a diagnosis. Imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRIs may be performed to rule out or confirm certain diagnoses. 

Treatment

Treatment will depend on the cause of the pain. Common treatments for foot pain include resting, icing, compressing, and elevating the affected foot, wearing orthotics, or taking anti-inflammatory medications. 

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

Aging brings about various changes, one of which is an increased risk of falling. With age the muscles may weaken, blood pressure control can become less effective, and vision and hearing may start to decline. These factors can all contribute to a decrease in balance and stability, making falls more likely. Additionally, certain medical conditions like arthritis, chronic pain, diabetes, and thyroid problems can further increase the likelihood of a fall. It's important to recognize that falls often result from a combination of factors. Physical conditions, lifestyle choices, and the environment can all play a role. Medication, especially those with side effects like dizziness, can compromise balance. Lack of exercise, often caused by chronic pain or other health issues, can lead to muscle weakness and impaired balance. Inside the home, hazards such as loose carpets, cluttered walkways, or wet floors can increase the risk of falling. Outside, uneven terrain, yard clutter, and slippery surfaces due to ice or snow pose additional challenges. For more help with reducing the risk of falling, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a chiropodist.

Falls are a common but preventable problem for older adults. If you would like to learn more about preventing falls, please consult with one of the chiropodists from Complete Family Footcare & Therapy. Our clinicians can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Did you know that most falls occur in the home? Fortunately, there are many simple changes that you can make to the living environment to reduce the risk of falling. 

In the Bathroom:

• Install grab bars near toilets, bathtubs, and showers

• Put non-skid mats on all surfaces that may get wet

In the Bedroom:

• Keep a light near the bed so that you can easily turn it on if you have to get up at night

• Keep the path from your bedroom to the bathroom clutter-free and well-lit

• Consider installing a bed rail for added support

In the Kitchen:

• Use non-skid mats

• Wipe up any spills immediately

• Move commonly used items to areas that are easily within your reach

In the Hallways:

• Place handrails on both sides of the stairs

• Install good lighting in the hallways and around the entire home

• Keep hallways free of clutter

• Don’t use throw rugs or small area rugs

In Other Living Areas: 

• Keep loose cables, cords, and wires near the wall and away from walking surfaces

• Make sure that all carpets and rugs are secure firmly to the floor

• Arrange your furniture so that it is not in your way when you walk

• Use chairs and couches that you can easily get up from

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