Gout and the Feet
Gout, a form of arthritis, affects the feet due to high uric acid levels. It is well-studied, with genetics playing a significant role. Symptoms can range from none to acute attacks and chronic conditions. Diagnosis involves tests and imaging, such as finding monosodium urate, or MSU, crystals in fluid, and advanced scans help to monitor it. Treatment includes managing flares, chronic issues, and preventing future attacks. Medication, lifestyle changes, and education are key. If you have gout and it is affecting the joints of your feet, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and advice in managing this painful condition.
Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Joe Mathew George DPM, FACFAS from Illinois. 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 offices located in Joliet, Bolingbrook, and Channahon, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Gout
Gout is a form of arthritis that is caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. This considered to be one of the most frequently recorded medical illnesses throughout history. Gout occurrences in the US have risen within the past twenty years and the condition now affects 8.3 million people which is 4% of all Americans. Researchers have found that gout affects men more than women and African-American men more than white men.
Symptoms of gout are warmth, swelling, discoloration, and tenderness in the affected joint area. The small joint on the big toe is the most common place for a gout attack to occur.
People who are obese, gain weight excessively, drink alcohol heavily, have high blood pressure, or have abnormal kidney function are more likely to develop gout. Furthermore, certain drugs and diseases are likely to increase levels of uric acid in the joints which eventually leads to gout. You are also more likely to develop gout if you eat a lot of meat and fish.
Many who experience gout attacks will experience repeated attacks over the years. Some people who have gout symptoms, may never have them again, but others may experience them several times a year. If you have gout symptoms throughout the year, you may have recurrent gout. Those who have gout should also be careful about their urate crystals collecting in their urinary tract, because this may lead to kidney stones.
Diagnosis for gout is done by checking the level of uric acid in the joints and blood. Your podiatrist may also prescribe medicine to reduce uric acid buildup in the blood, which will help prevent any gout attacks.
To treat gout, your podiatrist may also prescribe you Anti-inflammatory medication (NSAIDs) which will relieve the pain and swelling of a gout episode and it can also shorten a gout attack. Maintaining a healthy diet is also a proven method to prevent gout attacks.
Gout Pain Can Be Managed
Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.
Foot Pain Caused by Cuboid Syndrome
Cuboid syndrome is a foot condition in which the cuboid bone has been displaced due to stress on the foot. Someone with cuboid syndrome may experience pain on the outer side of the foot, particularly in the midfoot area, which can worsen with weight-bearing activities like walking or running. The patient’s foot may be swollen, tender to the touch, and difficult to stand on. Additionally, they might complain of discomfort or pain during sports and physical activity. Early recognition and intervention can help alleviate symptoms and prevent long-term complications, allowing patients to return to their normal activities. If you have any of these symptoms, it is suggested you seek medical attention from a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat the source of the pain.
Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with Joe Mathew George DPM, FACFAS from Illinois. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.
Causes
The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:
- Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
- Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
- Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.
Symptoms
A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Joliet, Bolingbrook, and Channahon, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
All About Cuboid Syndrome
Though cuboid syndrome predominately affects athletes, non-athletes can suffer from it too. Cuboid syndrome is also called cuboid subluxation or cuboid fault syndrome, and occurs when a joint or ligament near the cuboid bone of the foot becomes damaged, or when the bone itself is dislodged from its natural position. Pain may be persistent, or come and go, and it is usually marked by the outside of the foot. Cuboid syndrome, unless severe, can be difficult to diagnose. A doctor will likely ask questions about how long the pain has been present, and will apply pressure on the cuboid bone to determine the origin of pain.
There are a number of causes that can lead to the syndrome. Due to athletic activities, repeated stress placed on the foot can cause cuboid subluxation. Ballet dancers, runners, and other athletes often develop this condition. Basketball or tennis players may also develop this condition, as they place stress on their feet while moving side to side. Cuboid syndrome can often develop over time; however it can come out of a sudden injury as well. Over pronation, or other problems with feet, can exacerbate the condition if not corrected.
Among podiatrists, there is some disagreement about the treatment, as well as the definition of cuboid syndrome. Some see the injury as an injury to the ligaments located nearby the cuboid bone, while others believe it refers to the dislocation of the calcaneal-cuboid joint only. Treatment opinions differ as well. Although it can be treated by manipulation in order to reposition the bone, this must be done with extreme care in order to avoid injury. Some doctors, however, prefer treatment through the use of orthotic pads, designed to keep the bone in its place. Effectiveness of these treatments may vary, according to the severity of the injury.
When you experience side foot pain, it is important that you seek medical assistance. If a subluxed cuboid is caught and treated early, treatment is usually successful, and individuals may begin activities such as sports when the pain subsides. If left untreated, the pain will worsen, and the condition could cause permanent damage.
Understanding Toe Walking in Toddlers
Understanding toe walking in toddlers is important for parents to discern normal development from potential issues. It's common for children under two years old to exhibit toe walking as they learn to walk. Toe walking is defined as the absence of heel strike during initial contact. It typically resolves as the child grows older, with most children demonstrating ankle dorsiflexion by age of five. However, toe walking can also be associated with specific conditions like cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, or autism spectrum disorders. For that reason, it's important to distinguish idiopathic toe walking, or ITW, where no pathology exists, from toe walking caused by underlying conditions. Recent studies suggest that more than half of young toe walkers will not face significant developmental or neuropsychiatric issues. While parents should monitor their child's development closely, toe walking alone isn't always indicative of a serious problem. If your child continues to toe walk past the age of five, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can conduct a thorough exam and suggest the next course of action.
If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Joe Mathew George DPM, FACFAS from Illinois. Our doctor 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 Joliet, Bolingbrook, and Channahon, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
The Importance of Biomechanics in Podiatry
Biomechanics and its related study deal with the forces that act against the body and affect things like our movement. In podiatry, biomechanics are studied to determine the movement of the ankle, toes, and the foot, as well as the forces that impact them. Podiatrists who train in this specialty are able to effectively diagnose and treat conditions that affect people’s everyday movement.
Regardless of your lifestyle, age, or any other factors, many people experience foot problems throughout their lives. Twists and turns, improper balance, and added weight are just a few of the things that can add stress to the feet. These issues can also limit our bodies’ mobility that we often take for granted. Pain in the feet and ankles can also trickle up towards the lower legs, knees, hip, and even back area. This affects the way you move around on a daily basis.
Biomechanics and its related study deal with forces that act against the body and affect things like our movement. In podiatry, biomechanics are studied to determine the movement of the ankle, toes, and the foot, as well as the forces that impact them. Podiatrists who train in this specialty are able to effectively diagnose and treat conditions that affect people’s everyday movement.
Regardless of your lifestyle, age, or any other factors, many people experience foot problems throughout their lives. Twists and turns, improper balance, and added weight are just a few of the things that can add stress to the feet. These issues can also limit our bodies’ mobility that we often take for granted. Pain in the feet and ankles can also trickle up towards the lower legs, knees, hip, and even back area. This affects the way you move around on a daily basis.
The history of studying biomechanics dates back to ancient Egypt at around 3000 B.C., where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded. Throughout the centuries, advances in technology, science, and an understanding of the human body led to more accurate diagnosis of conditions such as corns for example. In 1974, biomechanics garnered a large audience when Merton Root founded Root Lab to make custom orthotics. He proposed that corrections of certain conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area. Due to his research, we still use his basic principle of foot orthotics to this day.
As technology has improved, so have the therapeutic processes that allow us to correct deficiencies in our natural biomechanics. Computers can now provide accurate readings of the forces, movements, and patterns of the foot and lower leg. Critical treatment options can be provided to patients now who suffer from problems that cause their biomechanics to not function naturally. The best results are now possible thanks to 3D modeling and computing technologies that can take readings and also map out what treatment will do to the affected areas.
These advanced corrective methods were able to come to light thanks to an increase in both the technologies surrounding biomechanics and also the knowledge of how they work naturally. For example, shoe orthotics are able to treat walking inabilities by realigning the posture deviations in patients caused by hip or back problems. Understanding foot biomechanics can help improve movement and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot. Speak with your podiatrist if you have any of these problems.
The Impact of Obesity on Foot Health
In today's fast-paced world, the rising concern of obesity has become a significant health issue, affecting various aspects of our well-being. One often overlooked consequence of obesity is its profound impact on foot health. The excess weight carried by obese individuals places an immense burden on the feet, leading to a myriad of problems. Feet, being the foundation of our body, bear the brunt of this added pressure, causing strain on joints, ligaments, bones, and tendons. Over time, this strain can result in conditions such as plantar fasciitis, flat feet, and arthritis. The increased load also hampers circulation, contributing to swelling and discomfort. Neglecting foot health in the context of obesity can exacerbate these issues, impacting overall mobility and quality of life. Recognizing the intricate connection between obesity and foot health is vital for fostering a proactive approach to address this concern. If you are overweight and have foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you to see the connection and provide appropriate relief options.
The more you weigh, the harder your feet must work to support your body. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact Joe Mathew George DPM, FACFAS from Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Obesity and Your Feet
People who are overweight are putting more pressure on their ankles, knees, and hips as well as their feet. This unfortunately can lead to variety of different issues.
Problems & Complications Stemming from Obesity
- When the body is overweight, it tries to compensate by changing the way that it moves. An obese person may lean forward and put extra weight on the wrong part of the foot. This puts unnecessary stress on the feet.
- Obese people are also more likely to develop type II diabetes which is a condition that causes a lot of foot problems. People with diabetes often don’t feel the cuts and sores that they may have on their feet, which can lead to more complicated and severe issues.
- Plantar fasciitis is another foot condition that can be caused by obesity. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot, which causes pain and stiffness while walking and climbing stairs.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Joliet, Bolingbrook, and Channahon, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Obesity and the Feet
Obesity is a common problem in American society. Approximately one third of the U.S. population is obese. Obesity is defined as a body mass index greater than 30. Obesity has the power to affect different aspects of the body, and one of the most common problems it causes is foot pain. There have been many studies that found a connection between an increased BMI and foot problems. A simple activity such as walking up a flight of stairs can increase pressure on the ankle by four to six times.
Being overweight causes the body to compensate for the extra weight by changing the way it moves. Consequently, people who struggle with obesity commonly have arch problems in their feet. Obesity causes the arch to break by stretching the ligaments and tendons that hold the bones in the foot together. When the arch lowers, the foot may eventually fall flat. Collapsed foot arches fail to provide adequate shock absorption which eventually leads to foot pain. Other conditions that may be caused by flat feet are pronation, plantar fasciitis, weak ankles, and shin splints.
Foot problems that are caused by obesity may be treated by wearing proper footwear. Proper shoes will allow your feet to have better circulation around the arch and ankle. Additionally, those with obesity often discover that typical heel pain remedies are not effective for them. They will find that their plantar fascia is easily injured, and it is often inflamed. The best way to treat this problem is to implement lifestyle changes. A few good ways to improve your diet are to reduce calories, fill up on fruits and veggies, and to limit sugars.
Custom foot orthotics can prevent foot problems if you’re carrying excess weight or are trying to lose weight. The purpose of orthotics is to provide shock absorption to decrease the amount of stress on the joints to prevent arthritis.
Types and Symptoms of Foot Arthritis
Foot pain can be a common issue, often arising from various causes, such as sports activities, prolonged standing at work, or wearing ill-fitting shoes. It can range from minor discomfort to debilitating pain, and its roots can be diverse. Overuse, strain on tendons or ligaments, fractures, or arthritis are some of the contributing factors. Arthritis can significantly impact foot health. Osteoarthritis, or OA, the most common type, can affect the foot's 33 joints, leading to pain and misalignment. Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, an autoimmune form, often starts in small hand and foot joints, causing pain and swelling. Psoriatic arthritis, or PsA, affects skin and joints, causing unique issues like dactylitis and plantar fasciitis. Gout, characterized by uric acid crystals, can cause sudden, intense pain, generally in the big toe. In systemic lupus erythematosus, or SLE, foot pain is often overlooked. Lupus-related arthritis, muscle, nerve, and soft tissue issues can lead to foot problems. Immunosuppressant medications increase the risk of complications, making proper footwear and podiatric care vital for lupus patients. If you have foot pain of any sort that is not a one-time issue, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Joe Mathew George DPM, FACFAS from Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Arthritic Foot Care
Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain. The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it. Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.
Symptoms
- Swelling
- Pain
- Stiffness
- Decreased Range of Motion
Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.
Risk Factors
- Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
- Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
- Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
- Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
- Age – Risk increases with age
- Gender –Most types are more common in women
- Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary
If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Joliet, Bolingbrook, and Channahon, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
