Items filtered by date: October 2024

Tuesday, 29 October 2024 00:00

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, often affecting the big toe. It typically appears suddenly, with symptoms such as intense pain, swelling, redness, and warmth in the affected area. Gout attacks can be triggered by certain foods, excessive alcohol, dehydration, or medications. While lifestyle changes, such as dietary adjustments and increased hydration, can help manage mild cases, recurrent or severe attacks may require medical intervention. If you experience debilitating pain or swelling in the big toe that does not improve on its own, it is important to see a podiatrist. This type of doctor may prescribe medications to lower uric acid levels or reduce inflammation, helping to prevent future flare-ups. If you have or suspect you have gout, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a comprehensive evaluation and effective treatment options tailored to your needs.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Bangor Podiatry. Our doctors 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 Bangor, Gilbert, and Bethlehem, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Tuesday, 22 October 2024 00:00

Ankle Injuries and Grades

Ankle sprains are common injuries that occur when the ligaments supporting the ankle stretch or tear. One of the most prevalent types is the inversion sprain, which happens when the foot rolls inward, often leading to damage on the outer side of the ankle. Medial ankle sprains, though less common, occur when the foot rolls outward, affecting the ligaments on the inner side. High ankle sprains involve injury to the ligaments connecting the tibia and fibula, usually resulting from a twisting injury. Ankle sprains are typically classified into three grades. Grade one involves mild stretching, grade two indicates partial tearing, and grade three signifies a complete tear of the ligament. If you have sprained your ankle, it is suggested that you promptly contact a podiatrist who can identify which kind of sprain it is, and offer appropriate treatment solutions. 

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Bangor Podiatry. Our doctors 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?

  • Mild to moderate bruising
  • Limited mobility
  • Swelling
  • Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

  • Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
  • Stretching before exercises and sports
  • Knowing your limits

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 offices located in Bangor, Gilbert, and Bethlehem, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Tuesday, 15 October 2024 00:00

Causes of Foot Arch Pain

Pain in the arch of the foot can stem from various conditions that affect its structure and function. Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes, resulting from inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. Overpronation, which occurs when the foot rolls inward excessively, can lead to strain and discomfort in the arch. Individuals with a cavus foot, or high arch, may also experience pain due to increased pressure on the arch. Conversely, flat feet, where the arches are collapsed, can lead to instability and discomfort. Additionally, posterior tibial tendon dysfunction, where the tendon that supports the arch of the foot becomes inflamed or damaged, can weaken the support for the arch, causing pain and difficulty in walking. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine the cause and offer effective treatment solutions.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Bangor Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Bunions
  • Hammertoes
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Bone Spurs
  • Corns
  • Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Ingrown Toenails
  • Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
  • Flat Feet
  • Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
  • And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

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If you are suffering from tenderness, pain, or stiffness in the joints of your feet or ankles, call us to schedule an appointment.

Tuesday, 08 October 2024 00:00

Facts About Flat Feet

Pes planus, commonly known as flat feet, is caused by the loss of the medial longitudinal arch of the foot. This results in the entire sole making contact with the ground, leading to a flat appearance. Various factors contribute to the development of pes planus. Genetic predisposition plays a significant role, as some individuals inherit a tendency for weak arches. Additionally, obesity places excess strain on the feet, weakening the arch over time. Other causes include injuries or conditions that damage the tendons supporting the arch, such as posterior tibial tendon dysfunction. Chronic conditions like diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis can also contribute to the loss of the arch. If you have flat feet, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer you comfort options and help you to manage this condition.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Bangor Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

  • Pain around the heel or arch area
  • Trouble standing on the tip toe
  • Swelling around the inside of the ankle
  • Flat look to one or both feet
  • Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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

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Tuesday, 01 October 2024 00:00

What Are Plantar Warts?

Plantar warts are benign growths that develop on the soles of the feet, caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV. They appear as small, rough, and grainy lesions, often with tiny black dots inside, which are small blood vessels. These warts can be painful, especially when pressure is applied, such as while walking or standing. Plantar warts are typically spread in warm, moist environments like swimming pools or locker rooms, where the virus can easily enter through small cuts or abrasions in the skin. In some cases, treatments like cryotherapy, freezing, or laser therapy may be recommended. For persistent or painful plantar warts, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to explore treatment options and receive professional care.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Bangor Podiatry. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

  • Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
  • Hard or thick callused spots
  • Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
  • Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

  • Freezing
  • Electric tool removal
  • Laser Treatment
  • Topical Creams (prescription only)
  • Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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

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