Stephan J. LaPointe, DPM, PhD, FACFAS
Symptoms that are often associated with the form of arthritis known as gout include joints that are stiff, red, or swollen. It develops as a result of excess uric acid in the body and collects in the joints of the big toe. This build up comes from eating foods that have elevated levels of purines, which include red meat and shellfish, or it can develop from genetic traits. Additionally, people who consume large amounts of alcohol can be afflicted with gout, in addition to patients who take low-dose aspirin or diuretics. People who have gout often experience severe pain and discomfort, and it may be difficult to walk. A proper diagnosis is typically performed by extracting a small amount of fluid from the affected joint, which is effective in noticing any crystals that are present. If you have this condition, it is suggested to counsel with a podiatrist who can begin the correct treatment.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. 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 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 Rome, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Many patients elect to have surgery done to permanently correct hammertoe. After surgery is performed, it is recommended to wear certain shoes that are designed to keep the toe in the correct position for several weeks. These types of shoes also provide adequate protection for the affected toe. Research has indicated that it is beneficial to walk for limited amounts of time throughout the day. This is helpful in increasing blood flow in the body, which aids in faster healing. Additionally, swelling may be diminished when the foot is elevated. If you have hammertoe, and are considering treatment options that include surgery, it is strongly suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can properly guide you.
Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Dr. Stephan J. LaPointe of Georgia Foot & Ankle Specialists . Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
When Is Surgery Necessary?
Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:
What Types of Surgery Are There?
The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:
Benefits of Surgery
Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.
Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.
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.
The painful condition that is known as rheumatoid arthritis is considered to be one of the most common forms of arthritis. Many patients experience the first symptoms of this ailment in the feet, and these may include swelling, soreness, or pain. The noticeable signs of rheumatoid arthritis may be seen and felt in the smaller joints of the toes, or in the ankle joint. Daily activities may become difficult to accomplish as a result of the joint pain and swelling that often accompanies this condition. When this is diagnosed, mild relief may be felt when proper insoles are worn, and this may help to slow the development arthritis in the affected joints. If you notice symptoms that are indicative of rheumatoid arthritis, it is advised that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can offer proper treatment techniques.
Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact Dr. Stephan J. LaPointe of Georgia Foot & Ankle Specialists . Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.
What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.
Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet
Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.
Symptoms
Diagnosis
Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.
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.
A plantar wart differs from other warts because it is found on the heel of the foot. It is known to grow inward as a result of pressure that is put on the heel while walking and can cause severe pain and discomfort. This type of wart is considered to be contagious, and it is suggested to speak to your child about refraining from sharing shoes and towels. It appears as a small, hardened area of skin, and may have black dots in the center. If the wart begins to spread or causes chronic pain, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can recommend effective methods of treatments. These may include applying prescribed medication, or possibly injecting the site with specific medicine. It is strongly recommended that your child keep all follow-up appointments, which may aid in attaining a complete recovery.
Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Stephan J. LaPointe from Georgia Foot & Ankle Specialists . Our doctor 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
Treatment
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 office located in Rome, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
The sesamoid bones are located at the bottom of the big toe. The purpose of the sesamoid bones is to protect the tendons in that area of the foot, in addition to increasing mobility of the tendons. If these bones should become irritated and inflamed, a condition that is known as sesamoiditis may develop. Common causes of this ailment may include overuse of the tendons which may occur while participating in sporting activities, or from a sudden injury. There are typical symptoms that may be associated with sesamoiditis, and these may include pain that is felt in the toes while walking, and discomfort may be present when the big toe is pulled up. Wearing proper footwear may help to relieve pressure on the sesamoid bones, in addition to adding custom made orthotics to your shoes. If you feel you have this condition, it is advised that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist so the correct treatment can begin.
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. Stephan J. LaPointe of Georgia Foot & Ankle Specialists . 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
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 Rome, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
