The majority of people who are affected by gout are men. However, it can also happen to women who are past menopausal age and may result due to a lack of estrogen. Gout is caused by excess uric acid levels in the body, which may increase after a woman reaches menopause. Many people associate gout with eating foods that have high levels of purines. These foods include shellfish, red meat, and drinks containing large amounts of sugar. Gout has been known to be a man’s disease as they had these types of eating habits centuries ago. Over the years, women have kept their gout attacks hidden from society, possibly from fear of being labeled as indulging in excess food and drink. Gout can cause severe pain and discomfort and generally affects the big toe. Uric acid will cause crystals to form in the joints of the big toe, which may result in extreme pain, redness, and swelling. Gout patients require the expertise of a podiatrist, and it is suggested this type of doctor be contacted to provide the correct treatment options for you.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Leonard Talarico, DPM from Georgia. 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 Pooler, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Sometimes when an individual endures a wound on their foot, they may require stitches of some kind. Stitches are essentially a way to close the two sides of a skin wound. If a patient has stitches in their foot, they may have to take specific steps to care for their stitches, ensuring they do not become infected. For example, a medical professional may recommend the patient keep the stitches dry and clean, particularly in the first day.  Additionally, an individual may consider refraining from engaging in physical activities that can tear the skin apart at the stitches. Lastly, a medical professional may advise against swimming, as this activity would submerge the stitches in water. If you are someone that has stitches or will need stitches on their feet, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today for treatment.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Leonard Talarico, DPM from Georgia. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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

Arthritis is an inflammatory disease that causes pain in the joints. Because each foot consists of 33 joints that can become inflamed, it may be helpful to find shoes that help to provide some relief from arthritic foot pain. Experts recommend wearing a shoe with a sturdy sole, as those with a softer sole may increase the pressure on the heel with each step. It is beneficial to look for a shoe that bends only near the toes and does not fold in half when squeezed. Further, avoiding shoes with narrow or pointed-toe boxes is thought to be the best choice. In addition, shoes with removable insoles are recommended, as this can make it easier to add custom insoles if needed. These inserts can support weakened joints, improve mobility, and reduce pain. High-heeled shoes or flats are not recommended for people with arthritis. Instead, finding shoes with a slight incline from toe to heel is thought to be better. For more information on selecting footwear for arthritic feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Leonard Talarico, DPM from Georgia. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Pooler, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.