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Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the body, leading to the formation of sharp crystals within joints. When uric acid levels rise, the body cannot eliminate it effectively, allowing crystals to accumulate and trigger inflammation. This process often affects the big toe, where sudden pain, redness, swelling, and warmth can develop. Symptoms may appear rapidly and become severe, making walking difficult. Risk factors include diet, genetics, certain medical conditions, and reduced kidney function. A podiatrist can diagnose gout, manage flare-ups, and recommend treatments to reduce pain and prevent recurrence. Gout can be painful and may cause difficulty in completing daily activities. If you have symptoms of gout, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this painful condition.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact the podiatrists from New England Family Foot Care. 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 Milton, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot stress fractures are small cracks in the bones of the foot caused by repetitive stress or overuse, rather than a single traumatic event. Common symptoms include localized pain that worsens with activity, swelling, tenderness, and bruising. They often result from high-impact activities, sudden increases in exercise intensity, or improper footwear. Risk factors include osteoporosis, poor nutrition, improper training techniques, and repetitive athletic activity. Prevention can involve adjusting training routines, wearing supportive shoes, and shortening stride length to reduce impact on the bones. A podiatrist can diagnose stress fractures with imaging, formulate a treatment plan, prescribe orthotics, and offer guidance to safely return to activity. If you have symptoms of a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can confirm the problem and offer appropriate treatment solutions.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact the podiatrists from New England Family Foot Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Milton, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.