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Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis that can cause sudden, intense pain, often affecting the big toe joint. It occurs when uric acid builds up in the bloodstream and forms sharp crystals in the joints. A gout flare can come on quickly, causing redness, swelling, and tenderness, sometimes so severe that even the weight of a bedsheet feels unbearable. While gout attacks can be short-lived, the condition may return and worsen over time if left untreated. Management typically includes medications to reduce inflammation during a flare-up and long-term strategies to lower uric acid levels. Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol, and reducing intake of purine-rich foods, like red meat and seafood, can help to prevent future attacks. If you are experiencing joint pain or think you might have gout, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan.

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.

Non-diabetic foot infections can occur due to cuts, puncture wounds, or fungal infections, leading to pain, swelling, and redness. These infections often cause throbbing or sharp pain, especially when pressure is applied to the affected area. A cut or puncture wound in the foot can allow bacteria to enter, while fungal infections, like athlete's foot, can lead to cracked skin and increased vulnerability to infection. The affected area may become warm to the touch, and you might notice discharge or pus if the infection worsens. If left untreated, the infection can spread, causing more severe pain and complications. A podiatrist can help by thoroughly cleaning the wound, draining any pus, and prescribing antibiotics if necessary. For fungal infections, they may recommend antifungal treatments to clear the infection. This type of doctor will also provide advice on proper foot care to prevent future infections. If you have this type of infection, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment solutions.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, 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.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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.

Think of foot orthotics as custom-built shock absorbers for your feet, designed to realign, cushion, and enhance every step. More than just insoles, they serve as personalized tools that adapt to the way you walk, helping to correct imbalances, reduce pain, and prevent long-term issues. Whether you are dealing with heel pain, arthritis, or just tired, achy feet, orthotics work behind the scenes to distribute pressure evenly, absorb impact, and improve posture. They can even help with knee, hip, and lower back pain by addressing misalignment at the foundation. Not all orthotics are created equal, and what works for one person might not work for another. It is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can assess your needs and recommend the best option, ensuring the right fit for comfort, support, and long-term foot health.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Chukwuma Ukata, DPM from Advanced Carolina Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

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