Gout is a form of arthritis where excess uric acid in the bloodstream crystallizes on joints in the body. Although other joints in the body can be affected by gout, it typically occurs in the joint of the big toe. Gout flares are intense attacks of pain, inflammation and sometimes redness and warmth in the skin around the affected joint. These flare-ups often occur at night and typically last from 12 hours to a few days. People who are male, overweight, over 40, or who suffer from angina, kidney disease, diabetes, high blood pressure or psoriasis are more at risk of developing gout. Additionally, consuming sugary drinks and foods rich in purines, as well as certain medications are believed to contribute to the formation of this painful condition. If you are experiencing painful flare ups in your big toe joint and fall into one of these categories, make an appointment with a podiatrist. By taking a sample of fluid from the affected toe and performing an examination, they can determine if the cause of your discomfort is gout, and help treat it.
Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Grand Blanc Family Footcare. Our doctors 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
Risk Factors
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 Grand Blanc, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Toenail fungal infections are a very common disease of the nails. The fungus responsible for toenail infections is called onychomycosis, or tinea unguium. It is very hearty and can be resistant to D-I-Y treatments at home. Fungal infections can cause the toenails to become brittle, crumbly, thickened, ragged, and discolored with yellow or white streaking or spots. A podiatrist may treat toenail fungal infections with oral medications, topical therapies, removal of damaged areas of the nail (debridement), or laser therapy. If you think you have a toenail fungal infection, reach out to a podiatrist to discuss your treatment options.
If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Grand Blanc Family Footcare. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Symptoms
Treatment
If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.
Prevention
In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.
In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Grand Blanc, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Toenail fungus is a frustrating problem that affects many people. It can be persistent and hard to get rid of. As many different types of fungi are present throughout the environment, it is very easy to contract toenail fungus.
The feet are especially susceptible to toenail fungus because shoes and socks create the ideal dark and moist environment that fungal infections thrive in. While fungal infections of the nail plate are quite common, if left untreated they can spread beyond the toenail and into the skin and other parts of the body.
Signs of toenail fungus include a thickened nail that has become yellow or brown in color, a foul smell, and debris beneath the nail. The toe may become painful due to the pressure of a thicker nail or the buildup of debris.
Treatment for toenail fungus is most effective during the early stages of an infection. If there is an accumulation of debris beneath the nail plate, an ingrown nail or a more serious infection can occur. While each treatment varies between patients, your podiatrist may prescribe you oral medications, topical liquids and creams, or laser therapy. To determine the best treatment process for you, be sure to visit your podiatrist at the first signs of toenail fungus.
A bunion is a bony foot deformity found along the outside of the big toe, at the base of the big toe joint. Besides the characteristic bony bump, bunions are also recognized by the way that they push the big toe so that it is pointing towards the smaller toes instead of straight out. Bunions can range from mildly unpleasant to very painful, with symptoms such as redness, swelling, and calluses on the big toe. If left untreated, bunions tend to progressively worsen. Over time, they may lead to arthritis forming in the big toe joint. Bunions can also push your other toes out of alignment. If you have bunions that are bothering you, don’t hesitate to reach out to a podiatrist near you.
If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Grand Blanc Family Footcare. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is a Bunion?
A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.
Why Do Bunions Form?
Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary
Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions
How Are Bunions Diagnosed?
Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.
How Are Bunions Treated?
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Grand Blanc, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Bunions are large bony bumps at the base of the big toe. Medically known as hallux valgus, a bunion is a misalignment of the metatarsophalangeal joint, or big toe joint. The misalignment will generally worsen with time if left untreated.
The exact cause of bunions is unknown, with genetics seen as a potential cause. High heels and poorly-fitted footwear, rheumatoid arthritis, and heredity all seem to be potential factors behind the exacerbation of bunions. Women have been found to be more likely to develop bunions in comparison to men.
Bunions do not always produce symptoms. The best way to tell is if the big toe is pushing up against the next toe and there is a large protrusion at the base of the big toe. You may or may not feel pain. Redness, swelling, and restricted movement of the big toe may be present as well.
Podiatrists use a variety of methods to diagnose bunions. If there are symptoms present, podiatrists will first consider that it is a bunion. If not, a physical examination will be conducted to check function of the big toe. Finally, an X-ray may be taken to view the extent of the bunion and confirm it is a bunion.
Typically, nonsurgical methods are used to treat bunions, unless the bunion has become too misaligned. Orthotics, icing and resting the foot, roomier and better fitted shoes, taping the foot, and pain medication are usually utilized first. If the bunion doesn’t go away or causes extreme pain, surgery may be required. Surgeons will either remove part of the swollen tissue or bone to straighten the toe out.
If you have a bunion, it is recommended to see a podiatrist. The longer it is left untreated, the worse it may get. Podiatrists can properly diagnose and treat a bunion before it gets worse.
Certain physical activities may put individuals at risk of experiencing an injury. Runners in particular may be more likely to experience ankle injuries. Some of the common ankle injuries runners may experience can include sprains, Achilles tendinopathy, peroneal tendinopathy, and tibialis posterior or tibialis anterior tendinopathy. Those who have previously injured their ankles can have an increased risk of repeated injuries, especially if the affected ankle has not had a chance to fully recover. This is often due to ankle joint instability, which may also occur after an injury. Left untreated, this can cause potential issues, not only in the ankle, but also further up in the knee and hip joints. If you have sustained an ankle injury, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist. A podiatrist can determine the underlying cause and severity of your injury and can prescribe the best treatment to get you back on your feet.
Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Grand Blanc Family Footcare. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries
Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:
Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Grand Blanc, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Corns are a buildup of hard skin that usually occurs on the tops or sides of the toes. They get their name from their appearance, which resembles a corn kernel. There are three types of corns: hard, soft, and seed. A hard corn is small, made up of dead skin, and has a packed center. A soft corn is more pliable and typically found between the fourth and fifth toes. A seed corn is tiny, but can be very tender and painful depending on its location. Unlike hard and soft corns, seed corns are usually found on the soles of the feet. Corns generally arise due to friction from ill-fitting shoes or socks. If you have corns on your feet that are bothering you it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist.
Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of Grand Blanc Family Footcare. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.
Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:
Treating Corns
Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Grand Blanc, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Corns and Calluses are both hardened layers of thickened skin that develop because of friction. Both ailments are typically found on the feet and may be unsightly. Although they have similarities, corns and calluses are different from each other.
Some causes of corns and calluses may be wearing ill-fitting shoes and not wearing socks. If you wear tight shoes, your feet will constantly be forced to rub against the shoes, causing friction. If you fail to wear socks, you are also causing your feet to endure excess friction.
There are some signs that may help you determine whether you have one of these two conditions. The first symptom is a thick, rough area of skin. Another common symptom is a hardened, raised bump on the foot. You may also experience tenderness or pain under the skin in addition to flaky, dry, or waxy skin.
There are also risk factors that may make someone more prone to developing corns and calluses. If you are already dealing with bunions or hammertoe, you may be more vulnerable to having corns and calluses as well. Other risk factors are foot deformities such as bone spurs, which can cause constant rubbing inside the shoe.
Corns tend to be smaller than calluses and they usually have a hard center surrounded by inflamed skin. They also tend to develop on the parts of the body that don’t bear as much weight such as the tops and sides of toes. Corns may also be painful for those who have them. On the other hand, calluses are rarely painful. These tend to develop on the bottom of the feet and may vary in size and shape.
Fortunately, most people only need treatment for corns and calluses if they are experiencing discomfort. At home treatments for corns and calluses should be avoided, because they will likely lead to infection. If you have either of these ailments it is advised that you consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for you.
Since many foot problems in children are due to ill-fitting or improper footwear, it’s important to make sure your child wears the right shoes. Check the fit on their shoes every 3-4 months to make sure they haven’t outgrown them. Avoid shoes that are too inflexible, tight, or hand-me-downs—all of which can change the shape of your child’s feet. Babies learning to walk should be barefoot indoors or have on soft-soled shoes to build up muscles and allow toes to grip the floor. Small children should wear non-synthetic, breathable shoes that are flexible and adjustable for a secure fit with a round toe box. Soles should be smooth and not overly grippy—which can alter a child’s gait and restrict their ability to move properly. If you notice any irregularities in the structure of your child’s foot or their gait, make an appointment with a podiatrist for a full examination.
The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact one of our podiatrists of Grand Blanc Family Footcare. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Grand Blanc, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Common symptoms that are often associated with gout can include severe pain and discomfort in the big toe, as well as swelling and redness. Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. The body produces uric acid when it breaks down purines, which are naturally found in the body, but they are also found in certain foods and drinks. Some examples of foods that are rich in purines are shellfish, red meat, organ meats such as liver and kidney, processed meat, beverages that contain high fructose corn syrup, and beer. Many patients experience gout attacks that can be so debilitating it may be impossible to walk or complete daily activities. If you are afflicted with bouts of gout, it is strongly suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can offer various treatment techniques. Although there is no cure for gout there are medications to manage it, as well as lifestyle changes to reduce and possibly eliminate attacks.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Grand Blanc Family Footcare. Our doctors 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 Grand Blanc, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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