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Who Is Most Susceptible To Getting Gout?

Monday, 30 March 2020

Severe pain and discomfort in the big toe and surrounding areas may be indicative of a condition that is known as gout. This is an ailment that may appear suddenly, also known as a gout attack. The pain may be so debilitating that it can be difficult to walk. It occurs as a result of excess uric acid in the bloodstream, which may come from specific causes. These may include genetic factors, and eating foods that have elevated purine levels which can consist of shellfish, red meat, or drinks that have unusually high sugar levels. Research has indicated that this form of arthritis generally affects more men than women, and may be common in patients who are overweight. It may be helpful to obtain a proper diagnosis, which can be achieved by having a blood test performed. This can be beneficial in determining existing uric acid levels. Some patients may use braces or canes to relieve excess pressure that falls on the joints. If you feel you may have gout, it is strongly advised that you schedule a consultation with 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 Dr. Robert Marcus from Foot & Ankle Center of Teaneck. 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 Teaneck, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Chair Yoga May Help to Stretch the Feet

Monday, 23 March 2020

A form of stretching, which is referred to as chair yoga, may be beneficial to practice after sitting and standing for extended periods of time. It can be helpful to stretch the feet in a classroom environment, which can be accomplished by a variety of methods. Heel raises are performed while keeping both heels flat on the floor, and lifting one heel at a time. After holding this position for a few seconds, repeat with the other foot. When the toes and feet are flexible, it may lead to easing tension in the shoulders and neck. This can be a result of utilizing the reflex zones that are located in the feet, and is accomplished by clenching the toes and soles of the feet, and then relaxing them. If you would like additional information about the benefits of stretching the feet, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Dr. Robert Marcus from Foot & Ankle Center of Teaneck. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.

Great ways to stretch your feet:

Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle

Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Teaneck, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Which Foot Conditions May Increase the Risk of Falling?

Monday, 16 March 2020

The feet are often considered to be the foundation of the body. However, as we age, we become more vulnerable to developing painful foot conditions. Some of the most common foot complications elderly patients can experience include the formation of corns or calluses, toenail disorders, bunions, hammertoes, poor circulation, and a lack of fat in the pads of the feet. Systemic disorders such as diabetes, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis may also increase the risk of developing a foot condition. To help care for elderly feet, it’s important that you perform daily checks for any abnormalities or deformities of the feet. Completing these daily checks may also help reduce the risk of falling. To avoid the risk of getting an infection, the feet should be regularly washed and dried. The nails should be properly trimmed, straight across and not too short, and comfortable and supportive footwear should be worn. If you would like more tips on maintaining the health of elderly feet, it’s suggested that you speak with a podiatrist for professional care.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Robert Marcus from Foot & Ankle Center of Teaneck. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions

Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
Shoes that don’t fit properly
Pressure sores
Loss of circulation in legs & feet
Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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

Before you start dancing...

Thursday, 12 March 2020

Wearing High Heels While Working

Monday, 09 March 2020

Many patients experience foot pain at the end of their working day. This may be a result of wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, or it may come from standing for extended periods of time throughout the day. Some work environments require high heels to be worn. If this is true for you, it may be beneficial to wear the lowest heel that is acceptable in the work environment, in addition to frequently stretching the calf muscles during the day. Additionally, it may be favorable to wear shoes that are made of breathable materials, and to alternate them with another pair, as this may help to avoid discomfort. If you would like additional information about how to protect your feet while working, please schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Dr. Robert Marcus from Foot & Ankle Center of Teaneck. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen.

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Teaneck, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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