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Items filtered by date: May 2023

Tuesday, 30 May 2023 00:00

Gout Is Painful

The foot condition known as gout has affected millions of people worldwide. It generally occurs in middle-aged people, and it may result from specific medications. Gout can occur from eating foods that contain high levels of purines, including shellfish, red meat, and drinks made with large amounts of sugar. The excess purines convert to uric acid and can cause crystals to form in the joints of the big toe. The pain from gout can be debilitating, and it is often difficult to walk. Effective prevention methods for gout include drinking plenty of water daily, eating healthy foods, and frequently engaging in a gentle exercise routine. A diagnosis can consist of extracting a small sample of the fluid from between the joints of the big toe, followed by receiving proper relief and treatment techniques. If you experience gout attacks, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of 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 our podiatrists from CNY Foot Surgery & Podiatry Care. Our doctors 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 East Syracuse, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Tuesday, 23 May 2023 00:00

Flip Flops and Arch Support

Although many men and women enjoy wearing flip flops during the summer time because the shoe is convenient and fashionable, it can wreak havoc on the health of the feet. One of the main reasons why flip flops are not always a desirable choice can be that this type of shoe lacks arch support. Due to insufficient arch support, a flip flop can make conditions such as plantar fasciitis more likely. However, not all flip flops have insufficient arch support. Namely, some flip flops have cushions in the arch of the foot to provide extra support. However, even these extra supportive flip flops still may be detrimental in the sense that the absence of a back strap causes the toes to scrunch up in order to keep the shoe on the foot. If you are someone that often wears flip flops, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today for more information and potential treatment.

Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact our podiatrists from CNY Foot Surgery & Podiatry Care. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops.  Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off; they're perfect for any summer beach goer.  However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.

How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?

  • Ankle problems
  • Hip problems
  • Lower back problems
  • Pain in the balls of the feet
  • Problems with foot arches
  • Changes in the way you walk

Are There Injuries Associated with Flip-Flops?

Yes.  Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops regularly are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections.  Common injuries and ailments include:

  • Sprained ankles
  • Blisters
  • Infections
  • Cuts and Scrapes

I like Wearing Flip-Flops. Are There Safe Alternatives?

When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and that are made of high-quality materials that will support for your feet.  These flip-flops will cost more but will also last longer as a result.

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

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Wednesday, 17 May 2023 00:00

Plantar Warts Can Be Treated!

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!

Tuesday, 16 May 2023 00:00

How Did I Get a Blister on My Foot?

Blisters on the feet can cause extreme discomfort. They form as a result of having a portion of damaged skin, which is generally caused by excess friction. They are defined as a small area that is filled with liquid, which helps to protect the raw skin. The majority of people who develop blisters on their feet understand the importance of keeping them from popping prematurely, and this can be difficult while wearing shoes. The blister will gradually drain when new skin has formed, and the ease of completing daily activities can return. It is beneficial to implement prevention techniques that can help to avoid blisters. These can include wearing shoes and socks that fit correctly, and wearing sunscreen, which can protect the skin. Blisters may also develop if the feet are exposed to extreme cold or excessive heat, or possibly from an allergic reaction to an insect bite. If you have a blister on your foot, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist for additional tips on how to treat and prevent foot blisters from developing.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact our podiatrists of CNY Foot Surgery & Podiatry Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

  • Bubble of skin filled with fluid
  • Redness
  • Moderate to severe pain
  • Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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

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A staggering number of seniors fall every year, and their feet may become injured. A broken foot or toe can wreak havoc in enjoying daily activities, and there are effective fall prevention methods that can be implemented that may help to avoid this. The majority of falls occur in the living environment, and making simple changes can help to avoid mishaps. These can include removing worn rugs, clearing clutter, and improving existing lighting. It is beneficial to have routine physical and eye examinations, which is helpful in updating medication and eyeglasses. Additionally, many people install grab bars in the toilet and shower area, as well as stepping on non-slip bath mats. Seniors become fearful after falling, and this may be eliminated when fall prevention methods are put into place. If you would like more information about how falling can affect the feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can provide expert advice on this topic.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with our podiatrists from CNY Foot Surgery & Podiatry Care. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

  • Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
  • Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
  • Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
  • Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
  • Utilizing a walker or cane
  • Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
  • Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

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Tuesday, 02 May 2023 00:00

Why Might a Foot Break?

A foot is fractured when any of the bones located in the foot become broken. As a result, the foot may be painful, and it can be difficult to put weight on it. There are many different reasons why the foot might fracture. For example, since humans use their feet everyday for significant periods of time, the feet are susceptible to slipping and twisting. Thus, the bones in the feet can break. They also can develop stress fractures from repetitive pounding during activities that involve running. Due to their close proximity to the ground, the feet can likely be impacted by heavy objects falling that can cause fractures. Of course, a foot might fracture due to some kind of sports injury, as well. If you are someone who has fractured their foot, it is suggested that you immediately schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide treatment options.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact our podiatrists from CNY Foot Surgery & Podiatry Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

  • Bruising
  • Pain
  • Redness
  • Swelling
  • Blue in color
  • Numbness
  • Cold
  • Misshapen
  • Cuts
  • Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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

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