Blog

While most people associate gout with the big toe, it can also affect the ankle joint. Gout causes intense pain, swelling, and stiffness due to the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joint. When uric acid levels in the blood rise, sharp crystals may form in the ankle, which can make walking and basic activities challenging. Risk factors for gout include consuming foods high in purines, such as red meat, organ meats, and certain seafood, as well as sugary drinks and alcohol, which can elevate uric acid levels. Ankle gout may flare up unpredictably, causing severe discomfort that can last for days or even weeks. A podiatrist can help to manage gout through specific measures. Certain medications can be prescribed that reduce inflammation and changes to diet and lifestyle choices may also be suggested. If not properly managed, gout-related inflammation can lead to lasting damage to the ankle joint. If your ankle is in severe pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Chukwuma Ukata, DPM from Advanced Carolina Foot and Ankle Center. 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 Garner, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Wearing the right shoes on construction sites is essential for ensuring safety and comfort. Proper footwear is designed to provide adequate support, protection, and traction on uneven surfaces. Construction environments often expose workers to heavy machinery, sharp objects, and potential slip hazards, making sturdy shoes vital for preventing injuries. Steel-toed boots, for example, protect against falling objects, while slip-resistant soles reduce the risk of slips and falls. Additionally, appropriate footwear can help alleviate fatigue during long hours on the job, while promoting better posture and reducing strain on the feet and legs. Investing in high-quality work shoes not only enhances safety but also improves overall job performance. If you have endured a foot injury while at work, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can offer you a diagnosis and treatment solutions, in addition to discussing correct footwear choices.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Chukwuma Ukata, DPM from Advanced Carolina Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

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

Choosing the right walking shoes is vital for comfort and foot health. An important aspect is the lacing technique, as using methods like the heel lock can prevent heel slippage and enhance stability. Correct shoe size is equally as important, as shoes that are too tight or too loose can lead to blisters and discomfort. It is also essential to remember that shoes do not last forever, and regular replacement is necessary to ensure adequate support and cushioning. Additionally, the type of socks worn can significantly impact the overall experience as moisture-wicking socks can help prevent blisters and keep feet dry. Finally, athletic shoes are designed to provide the necessary support for various activities, including walking. Wearing the right shoes for your desired activity may help to prevent painful foot conditions. If you have foot pain and would like specific information about walking or running shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide relief and educational tips.

For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with Chukwuma Ukata, DPM from Advanced Carolina Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.

Foot Health: The Differences between Walking & Running Shoes

There are great ways to stay in shape: running and walking are two great exercises to a healthy lifestyle. It is important to know that running shoes and walking shoes are not interchangeable. There is a key difference on how the feet hit the ground when someone is running or walking. This is why one should be aware that a shoe is designed differently for each activity.

You may be asking yourself what the real differences are between walking and running shoes and the answers may shock you.

Differences

Walking doesn’t involve as much stress or impact on the feet as running does. However, this doesn’t mean that you should be any less prepared. When you’re walking, you land on your heels and have your foot roll forward. This rolling motion requires additional support to the feet.

Flexibility – Walking shoes are designed to have soft, flexible soles. This allows the walker to push off easily with each step.

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