Items filtered by date: May 2024

Gout, often termed the disease of kings, is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to intense pain and swelling. Contrary to popular belief, gout can affect anyone, regardless of social status or dietary habits. The condition typically manifests in sudden, severe attacks, commonly affecting the big toe. Factors contributing to gout include genetics, a diet rich in purines that are found in red meat, seafood, and alcohol, obesity, and certain medical conditions like hypertension or kidney disease. Despite its historical association with indulgence, gout is a legitimate medical concern that requires proper management and treatment. Without intervention, recurrent gout attacks can lead to joint damage and chronic pain, significantly impacting one's quality of life. If you have severe pain in your big toe and surrounding areas, it is strongly suggested that you seek advice from a podiatrist who can help you find relief and management methods.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact James P. Huish, DPM from Arizona. Our doctor 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 our office located in Safford, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Understanding the causes of a broken heel helps in recognizing the signs and seeking appropriate treatment. Fractures in the heel often result from significant force, such as falling from a height, a car accident, or a sports injury. Repetitive stress on the heel, which may develop from long-distance running, can lead to stress fractures in the heel. Symptoms of heel fractures include pain when touching and putting weight on it. Swelling and difficulty walking normally are other symptoms. A fracture of the heel bone may also cause internal bleeding, resulting in bruising after a day or so. To diagnose a broken heel, a podiatrist employs X-rays and sometimes CT scans. Treatment may involve wearing a cast or splint. Surgical intervention for severe cases and the use of assistive devices like canes and protective footwear during recovery may be prescribed. If you suspect a broken heel, it's suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for proper evaluation and personalized care.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact James P. Huish, DPM from Arizona. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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