Patients who are afflicted with gout are often aware of the intense pain and discomfort it may cause. It is considered to be a form of arthritis, and the pain is caused by severe swelling in the joints of the big toe. It may develop as a result of elevated uric acid levels in the bloodstream, and the types of foods that are eaten may play a significant role in developing gout. Some of these foods may include red meats and shellfish, in addition to excess alcohol and drinks that are high in fructose. Additionally, there may be specific medications that may help to cause gout, including diuretics and low-dose aspirin. Research has shown that obesity may be linked to gout attacks, and it may be helpful to implement healthy dietary changes. If you are suffering from gout, it is strongly advised that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can customize a treatment program that is correct for you.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Tina Oliver from Astro Foot Care, PA. Our doctor 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 Houston, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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Patients who have cracked heels are aware of the discomfort and pain they may cause. A considerable amount of pressure is placed on the heels, and this may be noticed while walking. It may happen as a result of having extremely dry skin or standing for extended periods of time throughout the day. Additionally, if you have medical conditions, which may include psoriasis, diabetes, or a thyroid disorder, you may be prone to developing cracked heels. There are noticeable symptoms of this condition, which may include hard and callused skin surrounding the heel of the foot, and the skin in that area may appear to be brown or yellow. If you have this ailment, mild relief may be found by washing and drying the feet thoroughly, followed by utilizing a good moisturizer several times per day. If cracked heels are left untreated, an infection may develop, which may lead to cellulitis. If you have developed cracked heels, it is strongly suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly diagnosis this condition and offer treatment options that are correct for you.
Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Tina Oliver from Astro Foot Care, PA. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Cracked Heels
Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.
How Do You Get Them?
Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.
Promote Healing
Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.
Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.
Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.
Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin.
Change in Diet
Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.
Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Houston, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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If you have developed a bunion, you may be aware of a structural deformity of the foot. It is considered to be a bone disorder, and affects the big toe. Obvious symptoms that may accompany this condition can include a bony protrusion on the side of the big toe, pain and discomfort, and possibly limited mobility of the affected toe. Bunions typically cause the big toe to move toward the toe next to it, and this is the reason for the joint to extend outward. There are several reasons why bunions may occur, and these may include genetic traits, medical conditions such as arthritis, or foot injuries that may have happened. There are specific foot issues, which may develop as a result of having a bunion, including hammertoe, bursitis, or calluses. It is important to be under the care of a podiatrist who can properly diagnosis this condition, and offer correct treatment techniques.
If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Dr. Tina Oliver of Astro Foot Care, PA. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is a Bunion?
Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.
Causes
Symptoms
In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Houston, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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Research has shown treatments for ankle sprains may differ depending on how severe the sprain is. Mild relief may be found in resting and elevating the foot, in addition to protecting the injured area for the first several days. If the foot is wrapped in a supportive bandage, swelling may decrease. As the resting period ends, it may be beneficial to perform exercises that may help to strengthen the ankle. This may aid in regaining stability and balance that is necessary to accomplish daily activities. There are several ankle stretches that may enhance range of motion and flexibility. These may include tracing letters of the alphabet with your toes and standing on one leg for several seconds. Both of these movements may help to improve strength and ankle movement. If you have sprained your ankle, it is suggested to seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.
Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Tina Oliver from Astro Foot Care, PA. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?
Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.
What Are the Symptoms?
Preventing a Sprain
Treatment of a Sprain
Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity. Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.
If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Houston, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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