Patients who experience gout attacks are aware of the severe and debilitating pain this condition may cause. It is considered to be a form of arthritis and typically affects the joints in the big toe. Some of the symptoms that are generally associated with gout include swelling on or near the affected joints, and it may often feel warm when touched. Gout is caused by an excess of uric acid in the bloodstream, which is referred to as hyperuricemia. It may occur from genetic reasons, or from eating foods that have high levels of purines. These can consist of red meat, shellfish, and drinks that have an elevated sugar content. Additionally, existing medical conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and poor kidney function, may play significant roles in developing gout. If you are afflicted with this type of arthritis, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. Our doctors 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 Brunswick, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A plantar fibroma is a noncancerous or benign growth in the arch of the foot that slowly grows over time. It develops on the plantar fascia, the ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the heel to the toes. A fibroma appears as a small bump typically less than an inch in size, and can occur in one or both feet. Often, a plantar fibroma does not cause symptoms. However, a fibroma can cause pain and discomfort if it grows in size, and it may be especially painful if pressure is applied to the area. Some experts say genetics play a factor, but it is not clear what exactly causes plantar fibroma or why, there’s no known way to prevent its occurrence. If you suspect that you have a plantar fibroma, it is suggested that you seek the care of a podiatrist.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. Our doctors 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 Brunswick, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Flip flops are a popular shoe style, and many people enjoy wearing them in the warm summer months. They are constructed with flat, foam soles, and have a plastic or rubber strap that lies between the big toe and second toe. Despite the simplicity of wearing them, they could possibly cause damage to your feet. Bunions can form as a result of pulled and overstretched ligaments, and may cause severe pain and discomfort. Additionally, the majority of flip flops have little or no arch support, and this may cause conditions such as plantar fasciitis and heel spurs to arise. The possible damage that can happen to your feet from frequently wearing flip flops may outweigh the temporary ease that comes from wearing these types of shoes. If you would like more information about how flip flops can affect your feet, please consult with a podiatrist.

Flip-flops can cause a lot of problems for your feet. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

Flip-flops have managed to become a summer essential for a lot of people. While the shoes may be stylish and easy to slip on and off, they can be dangerous to those who wear them too often. These shoes might protect you from fungal infections such as athlete’s foot, but they can also give you foot pain and sprained ankles if you trip while wearing them.

When Are They Okay to Wear?

Flip-flops should only be worn for very short periods of time. They can help protect your feet in places that are crawling with fungi, such as gym locker rooms. Athlete’s foot and plantar warts are two common fungi that flip-flops may help protect your feet against.

Why Are They Bad for My Feet?

These shoes do not offer any arch support, so they are not ideal for everyday use. They also do not provide shock absorption or heel cushioning which can be problematic for your feet. Additionally, you may suffer from glass cuts, puncture wounds, and stubbed toes since they offer little protection for your feet.

More Reasons Why They Are Bad for Your Feet

• They Slow You Down
• May Cause Blisters and Calluses
• Expose Your Feet to Bacteria

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