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Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. This buildup results from either overproduction of uric acid or the body’s inability to eliminate it properly. The condition often affects the big toe joint but can occur in other joints such as the ankles, knees, and wrists. The first sign of gout is usually sudden, intense pain in the affected joint, often starting at night. The joint may appear red, swollen, warm, and extremely tender to the touch. Even the light pressure from a bedsheet can be painful. Repeated gout attacks may lead to chronic joint damage if left untreated. If you have symptoms of gout, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this painful condition.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Stephan J. LaPointe from Georgia Foot & Ankle Specialists . 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 Rome, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Choosing the right walking shoes is essential for maintaining foot health and overall comfort during daily activities. A good walking shoe should have a low heel to promote stability and reduce strain on the feet. It is important to ensure there is enough wiggle room in the toe box so that toes can move freely without feeling cramped. Taking a test walk around the store can help determine if the shoes provide adequate support, cushioning, and fit. It is also helpful to shop later in the day when feet are slightly swollen, as this reflects their true size during regular use. If you enjoy walking, it is important to wear the right type of shoes, or foot pain may develop. If this has happened to you, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Stephan J. LaPointe from Georgia Foot & Ankle Specialists . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

• Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
• Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
• Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
• Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

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

Foot pain is a common complaint as people age, often resulting from years of wear and tear on the feet, toes, and ankles. Age-related foot issues include bunions, stress fractures, osteoarthritis, plantar fasciitis, and collapsed arches. These conditions can arise as the soft tissues lose elasticity, bones weaken, and joint cartilage wears down. Women are especially prone to developing foot problems due to factors such as hormonal changes and a higher likelihood of bone density loss later in life. In addition, high heels, often worn for many years, can increase pressure on the front of the foot and contribute to deformities and pain. A podiatrist can diagnose the source of your foot pain and recommend medical treatment, including custom orthotic devices, bracing, or injections to reduce inflammation and relieve pressure. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct deformities or repair damaged tissues. If you have foot problems related to aging, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Stephan J. LaPointe of Georgia Foot & Ankle Specialists . Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.

It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.

Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities. 

Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.

Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Rome, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.