A common form of inflammatory arthritis is known as gout. It can be extremely uncomfortable and can cause severe pain. It frequently affects the joints in the big toe, and may make walking difficult. Gout develops as a result of a buildup of uric acid, which may come from specific foods, including red meat and shellfish, as well as drinking alcoholic beverages. In addition to pain in the big toe, common symptoms can consist of swelling, redness, and lumps that are painless under the skin. Prevention methods include losing excess weight, avoiding foods that can trigger gout attacks, and eating foods high in vitamin C. Additionally, implementing a gentle exercise routine may help to manage gout. If you have this type of pain in your big toe, please speak with a podiatrist who can discuss prevention techniques and offer treatment solutions. 

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim from Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor 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 Roselle, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Diabetes is a serious illness that is caused by elevated glucose levels. It is common for diabetic patients to have foot problems, and severe infections can sometimes lead to amputation. Some of the symptoms that diabetics can feel are a numbing and tingling sensation, skin discoloration, and blisters may develop. Diabetic foot care consists of checking the feet daily for any cuts or bruises. This can be done by using a mirror to check the bottom of the feet. Additionally, it is important to control blood sugar levels, and this may be accomplished by eating foods that are healthy. Many patients find that implementing a gentle exercise program can help bring temporary relief from circulation issues that may accompany diabetes. If you are diabetic, it is strongly suggested that you are under the regular care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim from Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Finding the correct running shoes for you, and your style of running is important because they provide a foundation for your body. The right shoes will fit well from the start, and should not have to be broken in. Most runners find it helpful to be aware of what type of surface they plan to run on. The choices are generally gravel paths or trails, and there are running shoes that are made for both types. Research has shown that the majority of running shoes will last between four to five hundred miles, which equates to three to four months for regular runners. Shoes that are made to run on roads or pavements are made of light and flexible materials, and have smoother soles. Cleats are found on shoes that are made for trails, which can provide a better grip. If you are a runner, or are considering running as a hobby, please check with a podiatrist who can answer any questions you may have about how to choose the pair of running shoes for you.

If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact Dr. Yeon A. Shim from Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.

• Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
• Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
• Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.

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