Monday, 18 June 2018 00:00

What is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that affects the joints and it is caused by an excess amount of uric acid in the bloodstream. A study was done to determine how gout is related to heart attacks, and it was found that the average time period between a diagnosis of gout and myocardial infarction was 2.3 years. Gout has also been shown to increase this risk of getting a heart attack by three times. Surprisingly, gout was also shown to be a higher risk factor for myocardial infarction when other factors such as hypertension, diabetes, and heart failure were absent. If you have any questions or think you may have gout, please consider scheduling a consultation with a podiatrist.  

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Barbara Davis from Gilbert Podiatry. 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 Gilbert, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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One of the benefits of working on your feet in the nursing profession, may include an improved circulatory system as a result of walking for the majority of the day. Nursing can be a physically demanding job, and the feet and ankles may benefit from practicing a daily exercise program that will strengthen the tendons, muscles and ligaments. Wearing the correct footwear is a key element in helping to achieve the support the feet need to feel strong. For this reason, it's recommended to purchase new shoes twice a year, and insoles may be added if additional cushioning is needed. Routinely stretching the feet and ankles during the day will help to maintain flexibility and this can be accomplished by pointing and flexing the ankles. If you would like additional information about how stretching your feet during your work day can benefit you, please speak with a podiatrist.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Dr. Barbara Davis from Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

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

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Many pregnant women will complain of foot pain, and this generally occurs in the last trimester. Research has shown this may be the result of elevated hormone levels which may cause bloating and swelling. The additional pressure and weight the feet endure as the fetus grows is indicative of extra fluid circulating in the body. Relief may be found when the legs are elevated for a few minutes several times per day, in addition to stretching the legs frequently. Different shoes may have to be worn to accommodate larger feet that may be a result of the swelling. Some ways to control the extra weight gain include drinking a moderate amount of water, ingesting foods that are healthy, and exercising on a regular basis. Some pregnant women may find relief in wearing maternity support stockings which may aid in alleviating the swelling in the ankles. If you experience pain in the feet during your pregnancy, it’s suggested that you speak 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. Barbara Davis from Gilbert Podiatry. 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 Gilbert, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Tuesday, 29 May 2018 00:00

Symptoms and Causes of Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that affects the nerves in the peripheral nervous system. The nerves become damaged and as a result, this type of neuropathy develops. The symptoms that accompany neuropathy include numbness, tingling or a burning sensation and will most often affect the feet. Additional symptoms may include a loss of balance and it’s common to experience weakness. There are several causes that may promote the onset of this ailment, including a vitamin deficiency, kidney failure, shingles, or alcoholism. Additionally, this condition may be the result of certain chemotherapy drugs that are taken. It’s important to have a correct diagnosis performed so the proper medication can be taken to alleviate the symptoms. It is suggested to consult with a podiatrist if your feet are affected by neuropathy.

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with Dr. Barbara Davis from Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

  • Claudication (leg pain from walking)
  • Numbness in legs
  • Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
  • Paleness of the skin
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
  • Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

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

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Daily activities may be more difficult to accomplish when the feet experience pain or discomfort. The feet are the foundation of the body, and research has shown that if they are properly taken care of the general health of the body will benefit. Elderly people may have difficulty in trimming their toenails correctly due to the inability to bend low enough to reach the feet. A condition referred to as neuropathy may produce numbness and tingling which may make it challenging to feel any pain or discomfort that may be present. This is one of the reasons why it’s important to take notice of any sores or changes of color on the feet, as this may possibly indicate serious health issues. Additionally, when good foot hygiene is practiced, the feet will not only feel good, but it may possibly prevent certain foot conditions from developing. This can be achieved by washing and soaking the feet in warm water, drying them completely, and then applying a moisturizer.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Barbara Davis from Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

  • Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
  • Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
  • Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
  • Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
  • Shoes that don’t fit properly
  • Pressure sores
  • Loss of circulation in legs & feet
  • Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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

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Monday, 14 May 2018 00:00

Why Do Bunions Develop?

A bunion is an abnormal growth that forms on the bottom of the big toe. Typical symptoms include swelling, pain, and redness surrounding the area of the big toe, and the entire foot may change shape as a result of the bunion. Choosing to wear poorly fitting shoes may cause this condition to develop, in addition to having a family history of bunions. This ailment may be prevented by wearing shoes that have adequate room for the toes to move freely, and shoes with a lower heel are preferred. If you enjoy running or jogging, your feet should be properly supported in running shoes that fit correctly. It’s suggested to schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who is skilled in properly diagnosing this condition. Treatment options can be discussed, which may include custom-made orthotics for temporary relief or surgery for removal of the bunion.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Dr. Barbara Davis of Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

  • Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
  • Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

  • Redness and inflammation
  • Pain and tenderness
  • Callus or corns on the bump
  • Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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

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Monday, 07 May 2018 00:00

Causes and Symptoms of Heel Spurs

A condition referred to as a heel spur is typically caused by repetitive stress placed on the foot. Gradually, a small protrusion forms on the bottom of the heel, and often produces severe pain. As a result, walking may become difficult, which may affect the gait. Research has shown that it is suggested to stop the activity that has caused the heel spur to develop, followed by implementing proper treatment methods. These may consist of injections that to provide relief, in addition to performing stretching techniques that may help in maintaining an accepted level of comfort. Surgery may be an additional option for permanently removing the heel spur and improving the general mobility of the entire foot. Most patients experience heel pain which typically precedes a proper diagnosis, and should not be ignored. Please consider scheduling a consultation with a podiatrist for additional information on how to properly treat heel spurs.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Dr. Barbara Davis from Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Gilbert, PA . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

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Monday, 30 April 2018 00:00

Causes of Ingrown Toenails

If the side of the toenail has grown into the skin, you may have a condition referred to as an ingrown toenail. It is typically a painful ailment and is often amplified when touched or put into a shoe. There are several causes for this to develop, including toenails that are improperly trimmed, wearing shoes that fit poorly, or a predisposed inherited gene in which the toenails may naturally curl. It is generally simple to notice if you are afflicted with this condition: observe the surrounding area of the nail to see if it is red, swollen, and painful. Treating the toenail as soon as possible can help ease discomfort, and this can be accomplished by soaking the foot in lukewarm water several times during the day. An infection may be avoided by applying an antiseptic on the toe and following by placing a small piece of cotton on the toe for protection. Consult a podiatrist if you have developed an ingrown toenail for more information on treatment options and care.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Barbara Davis of Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

  • Bacterial infections
  • Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
  • Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
  • Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
  • Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

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

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Monday, 23 April 2018 00:00

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

If you have fallen and have experienced severe pain at the top of the foot, you may have what is referred to as a broken toe. Additionally, this may occur if a heavy object has fallen on the toe and will often appear bruised and swollen. Fractures that are severe may cause the toe to become displaced, causing the toe to look deformed. It’s important to begin treatment of this condition as quickly as possible, often beginning with taking weight off the toe. At this point, the toe can be splinted to the toe next to it, which will restrict any movement from occurring. To properly diagnose this ailment, an X-ray may be performed to observe the severity of the fracture. If the big toe is broken, a walking boot may be suggested to be worn, typically for 2-4 weeks. If you feel you have broken your toe, please consider scheduling a consultation with a podiatrist for a proper evaluation.

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. Barbara Davis from Gilbert Podiatry. 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 Gilbert, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Monday, 16 April 2018 00:00

Symptoms of Sever’s Disease

If your pre-teen child experiences heel pain, it may be a condition known as Sever’s disease. This condition typically affects children between eight and fourteen years of age, and recent research has shown that it occurs in males slightly more than females. You may notice your child limping especially after a running activity, and heel pain may be noticed if a sports game is participated in. This ailment is typically related to physically active teens. It’s beneficial to rest between physical activities, which may enable the heel to obtain adequate comfort. If your child is hindered by this condition, please schedule a consultation with a podiatrist for additional information and proper treatment options.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Dr. Barbara Davis from Gilbert Podiatry. 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 Gilbert, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

Read more about Sever's Disease
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