Blog

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis that affects the big toe and can cause severe joint pain. Gout is three times more likely to affect men than women. A proper diagnosis will require a podiatrist to assess the foot and rule out other possible diagnoses. Upon a gout diagnosis, medications such as anti-inflammatory drugs or corticosteroids may be prescribed. However, the typical primary treatment method for gout involves reducing uric acid levels in the blood. While there are many prescriptions that may help reduce these levels, diet is key. Avoiding high purine foods, sugary drinks, and alcohol will help reduce uric acid levels. If you believe that you are suffering from gout, consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment. 

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Linda D. Nachmani from Central Foot & Ankle Associates. 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 one of our offices located in Houston, and Pearland, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ankle sprains are a common injury among athletes. The severity of an ankle sprain can vary from a mild overstretching of the ligaments in the ankle to a severe ligament tear. While there are options for treating mild ankle sprains at home, such as resting, icing, compressing, and elevating the affected ankle, further medical attention will be warranted in more severe cases. You should seek immediate medical attention if your foot or lower leg is bent at an angle. You should also see a doctor if you heard a popping sound at the time of injury, have moderate to severe pain, have severe swelling or bruising, are unable to walk or bear weight on the affected ankle, experience numbness or tingling after the injury, or if you have swelling or bruising that lasts longer than two weeks. If you have any of these symptoms, it is suggested that you seek the care of a podiatrist as soon as possible.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Linda D. Nachmani from Central Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Houston, and Pearland, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!

The medical condition that is known as flat feet is noticeable while standing on the floor, and is generally caused by genetic factors. Some people can live with flat feet and have no issues or pain arise, but many athletes affected by this ailment can result in serious injury if not prepared for. The arch acts similar to shock absorbers, and can help in pushing off when walking and running. Patients who are afflicted with flat feet may feel pain and discomfort while participating in sporting activities, which may be caused by loose tendons. Additionally, these patients may have difficulty standing for extended periods of time, and may experience pain in other areas of the body, including the feet, knees, hips, and lower back. If you have flat feet, please consult with a podiatrist who can determine the right treatment for you.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. Linda D. Nachmani from Central Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Houston, and Pearland, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.