Gout is a type of painful inflammatory arthritis that affects joints. It is caused by the buildup of uric acid in the body, which is a substance produced from the breakdown of purines. Purines are naturally occurring in the body, but they also come from some foods, such as red meat, oily fish, organ meats, and high sugar beverages, including alcohol. When more uric acid is produced than can be excreted, it can form into crystals that settle in the joints and one can have a gout attack. Usually, excess uric acid is secreted through the kidneys, but sometimes this does not happen because of conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or enzyme abnormalities. Gout can be a hereditary condition and is more common in men. It may also affect women after menopause. The key symptoms of gout are swelling, redness, and severe pain in the affected joint. It can attack a person in spurts and commonly affects the joint at the base of the big toe. It can be uncomfortable to walk and wear shoes. If your big toe hurts, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper evaluation and guidance on how to manage gout or anything else that might be going on.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Queen Mbanuzue, DPM from In Step Podiatry Center. 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 Lanham, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Research has shown seniors may be more prone to falling in the colder months than at other times of the year. The body may change with the shorter days, and people may  be uncomfortable in the fall and winter months. While walking outside, it is beneficial to wear shoes that fit well and have textured soles, such as sneakers. Fall prevention techniques can be implemented in the household, and can be effective in keeping the home safe. These can include putting brighter bulbs in the lighting fixtures and removing worn rugs from the living area. It is beneficial to clear away existing clutter, which can be a tripping hazard. Many people find it helpful to have grab bars installed in the shower and toilet area, in addition to using a bathmat. Having regular physical and eye examinations can be useful in updating current prescriptions and eyeglasses, and engaging in a gentle stretching routine can help the body to become stronger. If you have questions about additional fall prevention techniques to use, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can provide you with the information you are seeking.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Queen Mbanuzue, DPM from In Step Podiatry Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

Many women experience discomfort during their pregnancy, and their feet are often affected. Foot pain and swelling often happen in the second or third trimester, making it difficult to complete daily tasks. The noticeable weight gain may cause plantar fasciitis to develop, as a result of the extra weight the heel and arches have to bear. This is a condition that targets the plantar fascia and causes it to become torn or inflamed. Edema is the medical term for swollen feet and is common among pregnant women. It happens from the extra fluids that the body naturally produces to support the growing fetus, and may pool in the feet and ankles. Foot pain may be managed by performing daily stretches which can help to increase blood flow and diminish soreness. Swollen feet may be helped by reducing sodium intake, and drinking plenty of water daily. If your pregnancy causes you to have foot pain or swollen feet, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can offer you additional relief 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 Queen Mbanuzue, DPM from In Step Podiatry Center. 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 Lanham, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Active children and young teenagers may be prone to developing Sever’s disease. It is a condition that affects the growth plate in the heel and can cause severe pain and discomfort. The pain is felt in the heel, and one of the first signs parents may notice is their child is limping. Additionally, affected children may walk on their tiptoes to avoid putting pressure on the heel. The treatment for Sever’s disease can begin with temporarily stopping the activity that caused this condition, and frequently elevating the affected foot. It is beneficial to avoid walking on that foot, and it may help to wear a protective boot or to use crutches. Parents may find their children may benefit from practicing stretching techniques, which can help the heel and calf muscles. If your active child has heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose and treat Sever’s disease. 

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Queen Mbanuzue, DPM from In Step Podiatry Center. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lanham, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.