The medical condition that is known as gout develops as a result of excess uric acid in the blood. This may cause crystals to form in the joints of the big toe, and can be quite painful and uncomfortable. Common symptoms that are typically associated with this condition can include swelling surrounding the affected area, redness, and extreme tenderness. This ailment can come from genetic factors, or from eating foods that have high levels of purines. When these types of foods are eaten, uric acid levels may increase. Foods that fall into this category can include shellfish, red meat, alcohol, and drinks that have excess sugar levels. There are measures that can be implemented which may help to prevent gout from developing. These can consist of eating healthier foods, losing weight, and drinking plenty of water daily. If you have gout, it is advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Jeff Brooks from Oceanside Foot & 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 Oceanside, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Stress fractures refer to having small breaks in the bone, commonly found in the second and third metatarsals of the foot. Stress fractures may not be obvious at first, however they tend to worsen overtime if not treated, and can be very painful. They typically occur due to overuse in a sporting activity, and can be prevented by gradually intensifying your workout and properly warming up before practicing an intense, high energy activity. It’s also important you wear footwear that gives your feet needed support, especially if you are running or jogging on uneven, or rugged surfaces. In terms of treatment, it is suggested that you get plenty of rest, treat the area with ice, and keep the foot elevated to avoid further swelling. We recommend you consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and an advised treatment plan.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Dr. Jeff Brooks from Oceanside Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

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

Having a hammertoe can make simple activities such as walking or wearing shoes feel like agony. The discomfort and pain that comes with having a hammertoe is due to the curling affect it has on the joints of the affected toe or toes, pushing them downward. The development of other foot-related conditions, such as corns and calluses, are common among those who have hammertoes. Hammertoes tend to be more common as you age, as well as for those with arthritis. To help ease the pain and discomfort of having a hammertoe, it’s recommended you refrain from wearing tightly-fitting shoes. For further guidance and a professional treatment plan, we recommend you speak with a podiatrist.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Dr. Jeff Brooks of Oceanside Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

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

Luka Doncic is a guard for the Dallas Mavericks and had to miss the game that was played against the Bucks after he sprained his ankle. The injury happened during the game against Miami, and the Mavericks lost during overtime with a score of 122-118. His injury was a significant factor in losing points for the team. The injury occurred when his right foot landed on the foot of another player. This is the first game he has currently not been able to play in, and has missed ten games in his rookie season as a result of minor injuries.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Dr. Jeff Brooks from Oceanside Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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