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June 2020

Monday, 29 June 2020 00:00

How Does Gout Occur?

Elevated levels of uric acid in the blood are often the cause of a medical condition that is known as gout. Common symptoms that many patients experience are severe pain and discomfort, and it is often difficult to walk. Gout may occur as a result of eating specific foods that can include red meat, seafood, and drinks that have a high sugar content. Additional reasons can consist of genetic factors and existing medical conditions such as diabetes and obesity. After a proper diagnosis is performed, treatment can begin. It is beneficial to adopt healthy eating habits and drink plenty of water daily. If you are afflicted with gout, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can determine the correct treatment plan for you.

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.

Read more about Gout
Monday, 22 June 2020 00:00

Possible Causes of Ingrown Toenails

The condition that is known as an ingrown toenail can happen as a result of stubbing your toe. It may cause the nail to grow into the surrounding skin, which can cause pain and discomfort. Additional reasons this ailment can happen include trimming the toenails incorrectly, or wearing shoes that are too snug. Patients have found mild relief when the nail is soaked in warm water, as this may help to soften the edges of the nail. If you have an ingrown toenail, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can treat the nail before it becomes infected, and offer you correct treatment remedies.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Chukwuma Ukata, DPM of Advanced Carolina Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

  • Improper toenail trimming
  • Genetics
  • Improper shoe fitting
  • Injury from pedicures or nail picking
  • Abnormal gait
  • Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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.

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Monday, 15 June 2020 00:00

Stretching the Plantar Fascia

Many people who enjoy running are aware of the importance of stretching their feet. The pain that is felt from the foot condition that is known as plantar fasciitis generally occurs as a result of repetitive use. Research has indicated there are specific stretches that can be performed for the plantar fascia. These can include towel stretches, and certain massage techniques. Additionally, this part of the foot can be stretched by rolling the bottom of the foot on a tennis ball. Flexibility may be increased when the calf muscles are lengthened. This is implemented by facing a wall while standing, and gently stretching one leg at a time. If you would like more information about the benefits of stretching the feet, please consult with a podiatrist.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Chukwuma Ukata, DPM from Advanced Carolina Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

  • Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
  • Similar to the previous one, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
  • Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
  • Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising and ice and rest the foot. It is advised to then see a podiatrist for help.

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.

Read more about How to Stretch Your Feet
Monday, 08 June 2020 00:00

How Can a Fungal Toenail Develop?

Fungal toenails, while often unsightly, can also be extremely uncomfortable. They can be identified by discoloration and thickening of the toenail. In some cases the nail may become so brittle that it breaks or splits, causing a great deal of pain. Fungal toenails can be more common among people who are diabetic, have a poor immune system, lack personal hygiene, and those who do not wear proper footwear in high risk fungal contaminated environments. Some of these environments can include public swimming pools, gyms, locker rooms, and communal showers. The fungi can enter through an opening in the nail, causing the infection. If left untreated, it may spread, creating more serious foot complications. For more advice on how to treat this condition, it is suggested that you seek professional care from a podiatrist.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Chukwuma Ukata, DPM of Advanced Carolina Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

  • Warped or oddly shaped nails
  • Yellowish nails
  • Loose/separated nail
  • Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
  • Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

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.

 

Read more about Treating Toenail Fungus
Monday, 01 June 2020 00:00

Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?

Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

Monday, 01 June 2020 00:00

Types Of Corns On The Feet

A corn can cause severe discomfort while wearing shoes. There are two types of corns that can develop on the feet. Soft corns are generally found between the toes, and can occur from wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. Hard corns are located on the sole of the foot, or on top of the toes, and can develop from excessive friction. Mild relief may be found when a protective pad is placed over the corn, and it is beneficial to wear shoes that fit correctly. Corns on the feet can cause your walking style to be altered, which naturally compensates for the pain and discomfort that is associated with corns. If you are afflicted with a corn on your foot, please consult with a podiatrist who can offer correct treatment techniques.

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Chukwuma Ukata, DPM of Advanced Carolina Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:

  • Well-fitting socks
  • Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
  • Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctor to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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.

Read more about Corns: What Are They, and How Do You Get Rid of Them
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