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January 2020

Monday, 27 January 2020 00:00

Gout Attacks May Be Painful

The medical condition that is known as gout can be uncomfortable. This form of arthritis generally causes severe pain and discomfort in the big toe and surrounding areas. The pain comes from the joints, and is caused by elevated uric acid levels in the blood. Many patients who experience gout attacks equate the pain to needle-like sensations, and it may be painful if anything touches the toe. Symptoms of this condition often include redness and swelling around the affected joints. Research has indicated that this ailment can develop from genetic traits, or from certain foods that are eaten. These can include red meat, shellfish, and drinks that have large amounts of sugar in them. A proper diagnosis can consist of having a blood test performed which may be helpful in determining the amount of uric acid that is present. Additionally, it may be beneficial to use a needle to remove a portion of the crystals from the painful joints. If you have been afflicted with gout attacks, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Lubrina Bryant from District Podiatry, PLLC. 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 Washington, D.C . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Everything You Need to Know About Gout
Published in Blog
Sunday, 26 January 2020 00:00

Gout Pain Can Be Managed

Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.

Published in Blog
Monday, 20 January 2020 00:00

Possible Causes of Plantar Hyperhidrosis

Patients who have excessively sweaty feet may have a condition that is referred to as plantar hyperhidrosis. It may be caused by genetic factors, in addition to extreme emotional or physical stress. This condition may be treated by wearing inner soles that are absorbent, and the feet may feel better while using powders that can absorb the sweat. Additionally, it may help to change socks frequently, which may be beneficial in preventing an infection. If you are suffering from sweaty feet, it is advised that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can help you find the right treatment method.

If you are suffering from hyperhidrosis contact Dr. Lubrina Bryant of District Podiatry, PLLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

Hyperhidrosis of the Feet

Hyperhidrosis is a rare disorder that can cause people to have excessive sweating of their feet. This can usually occur all on its own without rigorous activity involved. People who suffer from hyperhidrosis may also experience sweaty palms.

Although it is said that sweating is a healthy process meant to cool down the body temperature and to maintain a proper internal temperature, hyperhidrosis may prove to be a huge hindrance on a person’s everyday life.

Plantar hyperhidrosis is considered to be the main form of hyperhidrosis. Secondary hyperhidrosis can refer to sweating that occurs in areas other than the feet or hands and armpits. Often this may be a sign of it being related to another medical condition such as menopause, hyperthyroidism and even Parkinson’s disease.

In order to alleviate this condition, it is important to see your doctor so that they may prescribe the necessary medications so that you can begin to live a normal life again. If this is left untreated, it is said that it will persist throughout an individual’s life.

A last resort approach would be surgery, but it is best to speak with your doctor to find out what may be the best treatment for you.

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

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Published in Blog
Monday, 13 January 2020 00:00

What Is the Bump on the Side of My Big Toe?

If you notice a bump on the side of your big toe, you may have what is referred to as a bunion. It may cause pain and discomfort, and it may be difficult to wear shoes that are typically worn on a weekly basis. Some of the symptoms that are generally associated with this condition can include calluses that form on top of the bunion, pain and swelling surrounding the affected area, and the skin may feel sore. Bunions have been known to be caused by wearing shoes that do not have ample room for the toes to move freely in. Additionally, there may be existing medical conditions such as gout or rheumatoid arthritis that can contribute to this condition. If you have developed a bunion, it is advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can offer you proper treatment options.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Dr. Lubrina Bryant of District Podiatry, PLLC. Our doctor 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?

  • Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
  • Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
  • Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
  • Orthotics or foot inserts
  • Surgery

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

Read more about Bunions
Published in Blog
Monday, 06 January 2020 00:00

Can Flat Feet Cause Pain?

An effective way of checking to see if you have flat feet is to stand on the floor and notice if your entire foot touches the ground. Flat feet are generally not a cause for serious concern, despite the fact that there may be mild pain. Moderate relief may be found when custom made orthotics are worn, and this may help to provide the arch support that is needed for daily walking. Additionally, there may be specific foot stretches that can be frequently practiced which can be beneficial in strengthening  the foot. Common causes for this condition can include genetic factors, insufficient foot growth, or medical conditions that may affect the foot muscles. If you have flat feet, it is suggested that you be under the care of a podiatrist who can help you with managing this condition.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. Lubrina Bryant from District Podiatry, PLLC. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

  • Pain around the heel or arch area
  • Trouble standing on the tip toe
  • Swelling around the inside of the ankle
  • Flat look to one or both feet
  • Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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

Read more about What is Flexible Flat Foot?
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