Gout, a form of inflammatory arthritis that often affects the big toe, can be triggered by certain foods high in purines, compounds that break down into uric acid. Uric acid buildup can lead to the formation of painful urate crystals in the joints, commonly affecting the big toe. To manage gout effectively, it is essential to be mindful of foods that can exacerbate symptoms. These can include foods rich in purines such as red meat, organ meats like liver and kidneys, shellfish, anchovies, and sardines. Additionally, high-fructose corn syrup found in sweetened beverages and foods can increase uric acid levels, as can alcohol consumption, particularly beer and spirits. Processed foods, refined carbohydrates, and sugary snacks should also be limited. Instead, focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. By avoiding or moderating the consumption of gout-triggering foods and prioritizing a healthy lifestyle, individuals can better manage their condition and reduce the frequency and severity of gout attacks. If you have had one or more gout attacks, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you manage this condition, which often includes effective preventative methods.
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.
Obesity casts a profound shadow over foot health, influencing various aspects of function and well-being. Excessive body weight places immense pressure on the feet, exacerbating biomechanical stress and strain. The increased load on weight-bearing structures, such as joints, ligaments, and tendons, can lead to structural changes, including flattening of the arches and misalignment of the foot bones. Consequently, individuals with obesity are more susceptible to foot ailments such as plantar fasciitis, osteoarthritis, and stress fractures. Moreover, the excess fat tissue surrounding the feet may impede circulation and impair healing processes, predisposing to conditions like peripheral artery disease and delayed wound healing. Mobility and balance may also be compromised, increasing the risk of falls and injuries. Addressing obesity through lifestyle modifications, including dietary changes and regular exercise, is essential not only for overall health but also for managing the adverse effects on foot health. If you are overweight and have developed foot pain, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can help you with relief and management tips.
Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact Dr. Lubrina Bryant from District Podiatry, PLLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Obesity and Your Feet
Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.
Problems & Complications
Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.
Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.
Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot.
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.
Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.
Plantar hyperhidrosis, a condition characterized by excessive sweating of the feet, poses challenges for those affected, often leading to discomfort and embarrassment. Several factors contribute to this condition, including overactive sweat glands triggered by the sympathetic nervous system. Genetics play a significant role, as individuals with a family history of hyperhidrosis are more prone to developing the condition. Hormonal changes, such as those occurring during puberty or menopause, can also exacerbate sweating. Additionally, medical conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, and infections may contribute to plantar hyperhidrosis. Psychological factors like stress, anxiety, or nervousness can further amplify sweating episodes. Furthermore, wearing tight or poorly ventilated footwear, particularly in warm climates, can worsen symptoms. If you are affected by plantar hyperhidrosis, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can provide you with effective relief methods.
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.
Arthritis, a term encompassing various inflammatory joint conditions, can significantly impact foot health, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. One common type is osteoarthritis, characterized by the breakdown of cartilage within the joints, leading to bone-on-bone friction and discomfort. Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disorder, targets the synovial lining of joints, including those in the feet, resulting in inflammation and joint deformities. Another prevalent form of arthritis is gout, caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, often affecting the big toe and causing sudden, severe pain. Additionally, psoriatic arthritis, associated with the skin condition psoriasis, can affect the feet, causing joint inflammation, swelling, and nail changes. Each type of arthritis presents unique challenges and requires tailored management strategies to alleviate symptoms and preserve foot function. If you have been afflicted by arthritis in your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the type is, and offer effective treatment strategies.
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. Lubrina Bryant of District Podiatry, PLLC. 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 Washington, D.C . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
