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Elevated uric acid levels in the bloodstream may lead to a painful condition that is known as gout. It typically affects the joints in the big toe, and symptoms generally consist of swelling, redness, and severe pain and discomfort. It can occur as a result of crystals that form and lodge in the joints, which is caused by eating foods that have high purine levels. These foods can include red meat, shellfish, and excess amounts of alcohol. After a proper diagnosis is performed, which can consist of extracting fluid from the affected joint that contains the crystals, proper treatment can begin. This can include taking medication which can lower uric acid levels. There are methods that can be implemented which may prevent gout attacks from occurring. It is beneficial to incorporate healthy eating habits into your daily routine, and limiting the amount of alcohol that is consumed. If you have frequent gout attacks, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can treat this condition.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Tanisha Richmond, DPM from Richmond Foot & Ankle, LLC. 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 Dayton, OH. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The first symptom many people experience if they have broken their toe is severe pain and discomfort. Other noticeable signs can include swelling, bruising on or around the affected toe, and difficulty walking. In severe fractures, patients may hear a popping sound as the break occurs. Common reasons for this type of injury to happen can include stepping unexpectedly off of a curb, hitting it against a piece of furniture, or it may gradually develop as a result of a stress fracture. Effective treatment options can include taping the affected toe to the toe next to it, which is referred to as buddy taping. This can be helpful in providing the necessary stability as the healing process occurs. Mild relief may be found when the foot is elevated, and this can be beneficial in reducing existing swelling. If you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can suggest the proper treatment for you.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Tanisha Richmond, DPM from Richmond Foot & Ankle, LLC. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

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

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