Gout is a form of arthritis marked by sudden, intense joint pain, often starting with the big toe. This condition occurs due to the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joint, causing inflammation. Symptoms typically include severe, throbbing pain that may begin unexpectedly, often at night. The affected joint becomes swollen, red, and warm to the touch, and even light pressure from clothing or bedding can be excruciating. Warning signs of an impending gout attack include persistent joint discomfort, frequent episodes of pain, or swelling without a clear cause. If you have any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help to manage this condition.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from New Tampa Foot & Ankle. 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

• 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 Wesley Chapel, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Preventing an ankle sprain is important to keep you active and reduce the risk of long recovery periods. An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments, which are strong bands of tissue connecting bones in your ankle, are overstretched or torn. This often happens when the foot twists or rolls unexpectedly. Risk factors for ankle sprains can include participating in sports, wearing poorly fitting footwear, walking on uneven surfaces, and having a previous history of sprains. Strengthening the muscles surrounding your ankle is a good way to prevent injuries, such as sprains. Exercises like heel raises can build up the muscles in your calves, providing better support for your ankles. Stretching these muscles regularly, particularly those in the lower part of the calf, enhances flexibility and reduces the risk of overstretching the ligaments. A podiatrist can offer personalized advice on exercises and other preventive measures. If you have incurred an ankle sprain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment ooptions.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from New Tampa Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

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

Toe, foot, and ankle pain can stem from various conditions, each requiring specific attention. Achilles tendinitis, characterized by inflammation of the Achilles tendon, often results in heel and calf pain from overuse or strain. Bruises occur when blood vessels under the skin are damaged, causing localized pain and discoloration. Puncture wounds, typically from sharp objects, can lead to infection and persistent discomfort. Stress fractures, small cracks in the bones from repetitive stress, are common in athletes and cause gradual pain that worsens with activity. Additionally, plantar fasciitis, involving inflammation of the tissue connecting the heel to the toes, leads to sharp heel pain, especially noticeable in the morning. If you are experiencing foot, ankle, or toe pain, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat any foot condition.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from New Tampa Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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