Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis where too much uric acid in the body causes sharp crystals to form in joints. Uric acid forms when the body breaks down chemical compounds called purines. Purines are naturally produced by the body, and they also come from the foods we eat. Foods higher in purines include animal organ products, certain seafood, soda with fructose, and alcohol. Gout can cause pain, redness, and swelling in and around the joints of the feet. It is particularly common in the big toe. While gout typically affects adults, it can also happen to children. Pediatric gout is rare, more common in males, and is usually linked to underlying medical conditions, including obesity, Down syndrome, and congenital heart disease. If your child is complaining of big toe pain, it is strongly suggested that you take them to a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

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.

Foot pain can be common during pregnancy. This can be a result of the added weight the feet must bear from the developing fetus, and may gradually worsen until the baby is born. Hormonal changes may cause the ligaments in the body to become loose, and this often applies to the feet. Some women have to alter their gait or walking style to accommodate the growing baby, and may walk on the outside of their feet during the third trimester. Plantar fasciitis is often experienced during pregnancy, which can happen if the plantar fascia becomes inflamed. This is the band of tissue that connects the heel to the toes, and may become irritated from the added weight. The Achilles tendon is located in the back of the lower leg, and connects the calf muscles to the heel. Tendonitis can occur if it becomes inflamed while walking, and cause pressure on the heels. Pregnant women have found mild relief from foot pain during this time by performing foot stretches, soaking their feet in warm water, or wearing orthotic insoles. If your pregnancy is causing your feet to hurt, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can offer you helpful relief options.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Dr. Jeff Brooks from Oceanside Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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.

The pain from the foot condition known as plantar fasciitis can be debilitating. This ailment is caused by an inflamed plantar fascia, which is the band of tissue that is found on the soles of the feet. The plantar fascia connects the heel to the toes and may become torn from standing on hard surfaces all day or wearing shoes that lack adequate arch support. Additionally, there may be existing medical conditions such as obesity, abnormal foot structure, or naturally tight calves that may lead to plantar fasciitis. The heel pain associated may be worse in the morning upon arising, or after sitting for a long period. Mild relief may begin with wearing shoes that fit correctly as well as stretches that target the plantar fascia. If you are afflicted with plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can determine the best course of treatment for you.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, 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.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is 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.