November 2024

While often associated with men, gout can affect women too, especially after menopause. Gout is a form of arthritis caused by high levels of uric acid in the blood, leading to painful crystals forming in the joints, particularly in the big toe. Estrogen, which helps regulate uric acid, declines post-menopause, increasing women’s risk of gout. Other factors like high blood pressure, obesity, and a diet rich in purines, found in red meat, shellfish, and alcohol, can also raise uric acid levels. Gout attacks come on suddenly, causing intense pain, redness, and swelling in the affected joint. Managing gout involves drinking plenty of water, avoiding purine-rich foods, and maintaining a healthy weight. If you have gout flare-ups, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who may prescribe medications to lower uric acid or relieve pain.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. 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 type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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 and ankle needs.

Caregivers play a critical role in assisting diabetic patients with foot care, significantly impacting ulcer prevention and overall health management. Daily foot checks are essential to catch early signs of problems like cuts, blisters, or calluses, which can quickly worsen in diabetic individuals. By regularly inspecting feet, caregivers help detect issues before they escalate, preventing complications that could lead to ulcers or infections. Education is another key aspect. Caregivers can reinforce proper foot care practices, including washing, moisturizing, and avoiding tight shoes. They may also assist with wound care, ensuring any cuts or sores are cleaned, dressed, and monitored. If you have diabetes, it is suggested that you ask for help, even from an informal caregiver, and schedule regular visits to a podiatrist for professional evaluations, toenail care, and customized care.

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. Jeff Brooks from Oceanside Foot & Ankle Center. 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 Oceanside, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Children’s feet grow rapidly, with the last foot bone developing about the age of three.This early growth requires gentle care to support healthy development. Parents should select flexible, well-fitted shoes that allow natural movement and avoid restrictive footwear, which can hinder proper bone and muscle development. Barefoot play on safe surfaces is also beneficial, as it helps strengthen the foot’s muscles and improve balance. Regularly checking for signs of discomfort or abnormal wear on shoes can highlight early issues. Parents should monitor for symptoms like persistent pain, limping, or visible foot deformities, such as inward-turning feet or flat feet, which may be normal at certain stages but worth watching. If these symptoms persist or worsen, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can assess and guide you on corrective options.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Dr. Jeff Brooks of Oceanside Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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 and ankle needs.

Foot pain can signal various underlying conditions, some of which should not be ignored due to their potential severity. Gout, caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leads to sudden, intense pain, especially in the big toe, and requires medical treatment to prevent damage. Diabetic foot pain often results from neuropathy, which can reduce sensation and lead to serious complications like ulcers or infections. Psoriatic arthritis may cause joint pain and swelling in the toes, needing ongoing management. Heel pain, often linked to plantar fasciitis, may worsen without proper care. Stress fractures, small cracks in the bone caused by overuse, can develop into more serious injuries if untreated. Lastly, foot pain caused by a blood clot, especially with accompanying redness, swelling, or warmth, requires immediate medical attention, as it could indicate deep vein thrombosis, a life-threatening condition. If you have persistent or worsening foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, 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.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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.