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Monday, 06 May 2019 00:00
Swelling and Foot Pain During Pregnancy
Many women experience foot pain during their pregnancy. This is due to a variety of reasons, which often includes additional weight gain, swelling in the latter stages of pregnancy, and hormonal changes. The added weight may shift the center of gravity, and this will typically put more pressure on the feet. Excess swelling can cause shoes to fit incorrectly, and it may be beneficial to change the style of shoes that are generally worn. Research has indicated that uncomfortable swelling can be kept to a minimum when plenty of fresh water is consumed daily. Additionally, it may be helpful to elevate the feet and reduce sodium content in the foods that are eaten. If your foot pain is severe during your pregnancy, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can offer proper treatment options.
Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Dr. Yeon A. Shim from Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?
One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward. This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.
Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages.
How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?
- Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
- Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
- Wear shoes with good arch support
- Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
- Elevate feet if you experience swelling
- Massage your feet
- Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Roselle, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Pregnancy and Foot Health Monday, 29 April 2019 00:00
The Complexity of the Human Foot
The human foot is comprised of several bones, ligaments, and muscles. It is important that our feet are flexible and stable so everyday activities can be completed with ease. Children may benefit at an early age from walking barefoot while indoors. This may help develop the grasping action in the toes, which can promote stability and muscle strength. Research has indicated the importance of measuring your child’s feet on a regular basis, and this is helpful in determining the correct shoe size. When choosing shoes for your child, it is important to ensure the foot is held firmly in place. This may be accomplished by choosing shoes that have laces or Velcro, which can hold the foot securely in the shoe. If you would like additional information on how to care for your child's feet, speak with your podiatrist.
The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
- Make sure their shoes fit properly
- Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
- Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
- Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
- Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
- Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
- Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
- Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Roselle, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Monday, 29 April 2019 00:00
The Complexity of the Human Foot
The human foot is comprised of several bones, ligaments, and muscles. It is important that our feet are flexible and stable so everyday activities can be completed with ease. Children may benefit at an early age from walking barefoot while indoors. This may help develop the grasping action in the toes, which can promote stability and muscle strength. Research has indicated the importance of measuring your child’s feet on a regular basis, and this is helpful in determining the correct shoe size. When choosing shoes for your child, it is important to ensure the foot is held firmly in place. This may be accomplished by choosing shoes that have laces or Velcro, which can hold the foot securely in the shoe. If you would like additional information on how to care for your child's feet, speak with your podiatrist.
The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
- Make sure their shoes fit properly
- Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
- Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
- Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
- Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
- Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
- Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
- Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Roselle, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about How to Care for Your Child's Feet Tuesday, 23 April 2019 00:00
Learning About Broken Toes
Broken toes are generally caused by trauma or injury to the foot, which can occur from dropping a heavy object on the toe or stubbing it. It is common to feel intense pain after stubbing your toe or dropping something on it, but if the pain persists then a bone might be broken. Signs of a broken toe include pain, swelling, stiffness, bruising, deformity, difficulty walking, and feeling that shoes are too tight. Breaking the big toe will have the worst effect on your ability to walk, but if you break your pinky toe you will most likely be able to walk normally. Seeking help from a medical professional is an important part of the healing process, because if the toe does not heal properly there could be complications in the future. Examples of common complications include arthritis, pain, stiffness and deformity. If you have a broken toe or suspect you might have broken a toe, then it is suggested you consult with a podiatrist to receive treatment.
A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim from Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What to Know About a Broken Toe
Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
- Throbbing pain
- Swelling
- Bruising on the skin and toenail
- The inability to move the toe
- Toe appears crooked or disfigured
- Tingling or numbness in the toe
Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.
Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Roselle, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Tuesday, 23 April 2019 00:00
Learning About Broken Toes
Broken toes are generally caused by trauma or injury to the foot, which can occur from dropping a heavy object on the toe or stubbing it. It is common to feel intense pain after stubbing your toe or dropping something on it, but if the pain persists then a bone might be broken. Signs of a broken toe include pain, swelling, stiffness, bruising, deformity, difficulty walking, and feeling that shoes are too tight. Breaking the big toe will have the worst effect on your ability to walk, but if you break your pinky toe you will most likely be able to walk normally. Seeking help from a medical professional is an important part of the healing process, because if the toe does not heal properly there could be complications in the future. Examples of common complications include arthritis, pain, stiffness and deformity. If you have a broken toe or suspect you might have broken a toe, then it is suggested you consult with a podiatrist to receive treatment.
A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim from Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What to Know About a Broken Toe
Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
- Throbbing pain
- Swelling
- Bruising on the skin and toenail
- The inability to move the toe
- Toe appears crooked or disfigured
- Tingling or numbness in the toe
Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.
Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Roselle, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about What to Know About a Broken Toe Monday, 15 April 2019 00:00
Understanding Blisters
Blisters are a common annoyance caused by friction. They usually appear on the back of the ankle and are visible bubbles filled with fluid. The fluid inside of a blister varies. A blister can be filled with pus, blood, or serum. This condition causes itching, pain, or discomfort. Discomfort is usually unavoidable when the blister is located on the back of the ankle, because it will rub against any footwear. Blisters shouldn’t be popped because exposing the skin underneath could easily lead to an infection. If a blister does pop, then stay away from alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, and iodine. It is best to clean the skin with warm water and a gentle soap. After washing the area, apply antibiotic ointment and cover loosely with a clean bandage. There are situations when blisters should be drained, but it is best to let a professional drain the bubble. If you have an uncomfortable blister and would like to learn more about how to properly treat it, then it is suggested you consult with a podiatrist.
Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Foot Blisters
Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.
What Are Foot Blisters?
A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.
Symptoms
(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)
- Bubble of skin filled with fluid
- Redness
- Moderate to severe pain
- Itching
Prevention & Treatment
In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Roselle, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Monday, 15 April 2019 00:00
Understanding Blisters
Blisters are a common annoyance caused by friction. They usually appear on the back of the ankle and are visible bubbles filled with fluid. The fluid inside of a blister varies. A blister can be filled with pus, blood, or serum. This condition causes itching, pain, or discomfort. Discomfort is usually unavoidable when the blister is located on the back of the ankle, because it will rub against any footwear. Blisters shouldn’t be popped because exposing the skin underneath could easily lead to an infection. If a blister does pop, then stay away from alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, and iodine. It is best to clean the skin with warm water and a gentle soap. After washing the area, apply antibiotic ointment and cover loosely with a clean bandage. There are situations when blisters should be drained, but it is best to let a professional drain the bubble. If you have an uncomfortable blister and would like to learn more about how to properly treat it, then it is suggested you consult with a podiatrist.
Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Foot Blisters
Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.
What Are Foot Blisters?
A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.
Symptoms
(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)
- Bubble of skin filled with fluid
- Redness
- Moderate to severe pain
- Itching
Prevention & Treatment
In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Roselle, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about Blisters on the Feet Monday, 08 April 2019 00:00
Common Foot Ailments That May Occur During Pregnancy
One of the most common foot ailments that many pregnant women may encounter is flat feet. This condition may develop as a result of the additional weight that is typically gained during pregnancy. Mild relief may be found if proper shoes are worn, and these may include footwear that supports the arch. Pregnancy may cause ingrown toenails to develop, and it may be difficult to trim the toenails properly. Improvement may be seen when the feet are soaked in a salt-water solution, and this may help to soften the nail and surrounding areas. Additionally, pregnant women may experience swollen feet, and may feel better when the feet are elevated. Performing gentle stretching techniques throughout the day and drinking plenty of fresh water may help to reduce the swelling. If you have questions about how pregnancy may affect the feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.
Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Dr. Yeon A. Shim from Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?
One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward. This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.
Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages.
How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?
- Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
- Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
- Wear shoes with good arch support
- Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
- Elevate feet if you experience swelling
- Massage your feet
- Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Roselle, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Monday, 08 April 2019 00:00
Common Foot Ailments That May Occur During Pregnancy
One of the most common foot ailments that many pregnant women may encounter is flat feet. This condition may develop as a result of the additional weight that is typically gained during pregnancy. Mild relief may be found if proper shoes are worn, and these may include footwear that supports the arch. Pregnancy may cause ingrown toenails to develop, and it may be difficult to trim the toenails properly. Improvement may be seen when the feet are soaked in a salt-water solution, and this may help to soften the nail and surrounding areas. Additionally, pregnant women may experience swollen feet, and may feel better when the feet are elevated. Performing gentle stretching techniques throughout the day and drinking plenty of fresh water may help to reduce the swelling. If you have questions about how pregnancy may affect the feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.
Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Dr. Yeon A. Shim from Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?
One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward. This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.
Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages.
How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?
- Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
- Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
- Wear shoes with good arch support
- Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
- Elevate feet if you experience swelling
- Massage your feet
- Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Roselle, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Foot Care for Pregnant Women Monday, 01 April 2019 00:00
Symptoms and Possible Causes of Toenail Fungus
There are normal levels of fungus in the body, in addition to different types of bacteria. Overgrown fungus levels may result in an infection. Onychomycosis is a fungal infection that typically affects the toenails. It generally develops gradually, and noticeable symptoms may include yellow or white toenails, or a possible loss of the nail. If medical conditions exist, they may increase the chances of developing toenail fungus. These may include diabetes, diseases that may cause poor circulation, or a weakened immune system. Additionally, if you have a nail injury, or spend time in public swimming pools or locker rooms, or wear artificial nails, you may notice signs of a toenail fungus. There may be measures that can be implemented, which may prevent this condition from developing. These may include avoiding walking barefoot in public areas, thoroughly drying your feet after showering, or utilizing antifungal sprays. If you feel you have developed a toenail fungus, it is suggested to speak to a podiatrist who can offer correct treatment options.
For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Toenail Fungus Treatment
Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.
Antifungals & Deterrence
Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.
Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.
Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Roselle, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
More...
Monday, 01 April 2019 00:00
Symptoms and Possible Causes of Toenail Fungus
There are normal levels of fungus in the body, in addition to different types of bacteria. Overgrown fungus levels may result in an infection. Onychomycosis is a fungal infection that typically affects the toenails. It generally develops gradually, and noticeable symptoms may include yellow or white toenails, or a possible loss of the nail. If medical conditions exist, they may increase the chances of developing toenail fungus. These may include diabetes, diseases that may cause poor circulation, or a weakened immune system. Additionally, if you have a nail injury, or spend time in public swimming pools or locker rooms, or wear artificial nails, you may notice signs of a toenail fungus. There may be measures that can be implemented, which may prevent this condition from developing. These may include avoiding walking barefoot in public areas, thoroughly drying your feet after showering, or utilizing antifungal sprays. If you feel you have developed a toenail fungus, it is suggested to speak to a podiatrist who can offer correct treatment options.
For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Toenail Fungus Treatment
Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.
Antifungals & Deterrence
Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.
Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.
Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Roselle, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about How to Treat Your Toenail Fungus Monday, 25 March 2019 00:00
What Causes an Ingrown Toenail?
An ingrown toenail is often a painful and uncomfortable condition that may result from wearing shoes that are too tight. It occurs when the side of the nail on the big toe grows into the surrounding skin, and this may cause swelling and discomfort. It may also develop from a genetic trait, or from cutting the toenails incorrectly. Additionally, some patients may have endured an injury to the toe, which may have caused an ingrown toenail. Mild relief may be found by soaking the foot in warm water. If the toe should become infected, there are noticeable symptoms that may indicate this. These may include bleeding, redness, or a discharge that may drain from the toe. If you have developed an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can guide you toward proper treatment techniques.
Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.
Causes
- Improper toenail trimming
- Genetics
- Improper shoe fitting
- Injury from pedicures or nail picking
- Abnormal gait
- Poor hygiene
You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.
Symptoms
Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.
Treatment
Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Roselle, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about Ingrown Toenails Monday, 25 March 2019 00:00
What Causes an Ingrown Toenail?
An ingrown toenail is often a painful and uncomfortable condition that may result from wearing shoes that are too tight. It occurs when the side of the nail on the big toe grows into the surrounding skin, and this may cause swelling and discomfort. It may also develop from a genetic trait, or from cutting the toenails incorrectly. Additionally, some patients may have endured an injury to the toe, which may have caused an ingrown toenail. Mild relief may be found by soaking the foot in warm water. If the toe should become infected, there are noticeable symptoms that may indicate this. These may include bleeding, redness, or a discharge that may drain from the toe. If you have developed an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can guide you toward proper treatment techniques.
Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.
Causes
- Improper toenail trimming
- Genetics
- Improper shoe fitting
- Injury from pedicures or nail picking
- Abnormal gait
- Poor hygiene
You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.
Symptoms
Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.
Treatment
Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Roselle, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about Ingrown Toenails Monday, 18 March 2019 00:00
Can Gout Be Prevented?
The medical term referred to as gout will typically affect the big toe and surrounding areas. Typical symptoms may generally include severe pain and discomfort in the area of the big toe, heat that may radiate from the foot, in addition to swelling and redness. It occurs as a result of elevated uric acid levels in the blood, which causes crystals to form in the joints. There may be several reasons for this to happen, including diabetes, high blood pressure, or congestive heart failure. Additionally, eating foods that have elevated fructose levels may lead to the onset of gout, in addition to drinking excess alcohol, or eating red meat or seafood. Successful prevention and treatment of gout may begin with eating healthy foods and implementing a gentle exercise program. If obesity exists, it may be helpful to lose excess weight which may aid in protecting the joints. If you are having gout attacks, it is advised to speak to a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.
Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim from Roselle Podiatry Group. 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 Roselle, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
