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What Triggers Gout?

Tuesday, 30 November 2021

Gout is a painful type of arthritis that occurs due to high levels of uric acid in the bloodstream. It frequently affects the joints of the feet, particularly in the big toe. A gout flareup can be extremely painful, swollen, red, and warm. Gout is thought to be at least partially hereditary, but co-occurring medical conditions and certain lifestyle factors can also trigger a gout attack. People who have a history of heart failure, kidney disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes are at an increased risk of gout. People who are obese, take diuretic medications, drink alcohol, consume sugary foods and beverages, or eat foods rich in purines, such as red meat and certain types of seafood, are also at risk. If you have suffered a gout attack, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist for treatment and prevention strategies.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Janet Leicht from New Jersey. 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 Berkeley Heights, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Diseases That Lead to Poor Circulation in the Feet

Tuesday, 30 November 2021

Poor circulation refers to inadequate or limited blood flow. The lower limbs, and particularly the feet, are often affected. There are various medical conditions that can cause poor foot circulation. These include Raynaud’s disease, acrocyanosis, diabetes, arteriosclerosis, and peripheral artery disease. People who have a sedentary lifestyle, smoke, or have high cholesterol or high blood pressure are at an increased risk of developing poor lower limb circulation as well. If you have symptoms of poor circulation, such as coldness, numbness, discoloration, dry or cracked skin, hair loss, weak toenails, and poor wound healing on your feet, it is strongly suggested that you seek the care of a podiatrist.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Dr. Janet Leicht of New Jersey. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness
Numbness or cramping in the legs
Skin discoloration
Slower nail & hair growth
Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication.

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

Signs You May Have a Fungal Toenail Infection

Tuesday, 23 November 2021

A fungal nail infection occurs when the nail is invaded by a fungus. As the fungus multiplies, the infected toenails begin to undergo changes. They may become thickened, brittle, crumbly, and discolored. In more severe cases, the nail can become misshapen and may begin to separate from the nail bed, causing pain and emitting a foul odor. The infection can spread from nail to nail, and surrounding skin can also become infected. A combination of topical and oral medications is often prescribed to treat toenail fungus. Laser therapy can also be a potential treatment option. To learn more, please consult with a podiatrist.

For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Janet Leicht of New Jersey. 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 contact our office located in Berkeley Heights, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Gout Pain Can Be Managed

Tuesday, 23 November 2021

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.

The Three Types of Sesamoid Injuries

Tuesday, 16 November 2021

The sesamoids are two small, pea-shaped bones located just beneath the base of the big toe. These bones are responsible for helping the big toe move normally and provide leverage when the big toe pushes off while walking or running. The sesamoid bones can become injured from excess pressure on the balls of the foot. There are three main types of sesamoid injuries. Turf toe occurs when the soft tissue surrounding the big toe joint is injured and causes immediate sharp pain and swelling. A fracture occurs when a sesamoid bone breaks. Sesamoiditis occurs when the sesamoid bones and surrounding tendons become inflamed. If you are experiencing foot pain, it is strongly suggested that you seek the care of a podiatrist.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Dr. Janet Leicht of New Jersey. Our doctor will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

Sudden increase in activity
Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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

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