Items filtered by date: October 2023

Gout, often referred to as the disease of kings, is a form of inflammatory arthritis that has affected individuals from all walks of life. This condition, caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints, typically manifests as excruciating pain, swelling, and redness, often in the big toe. The pain can be so intense that even the touch of a bedsheet can trigger agony. Gout occurs when the body produces excessive uric acid or struggles to eliminate it efficiently, leading to the formation of sharp crystals within the joints. While it primarily targets the feet, gout can also affect other joints, such as the ankles, knees, and wrists. Dietary choices, genetics, obesity, and other medical conditions can contribute to gout's onset. Understanding this ailment is essential for individuals who suffer from it and for those seeking to support them in their journey to manage gout effectively. Gout can affect daily activities, and if you are afflicted with this form of arthritis, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you manage 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 Surgical Group. 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 Henderson, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Morton's neuroma is a painful condition caused by a compression of the nerves in the ball of the foot. This condition begins with inflammation and swelling of the nerves due to pressure. It causes symptoms such as sharp pain, a lump sensation, and nerve-related issues in the toes. High-heeled shoes and improper footwear are major risk factors for this condition, and certain gait patterns and foot anatomy can also contribute to it. Morton's neuroma is generally treated non-invasively, with recommendations to wear well-fitted footwear, rocker-soled shoes, metatarsal pads, and custom foot orthotics to alleviate pressure and improve gait. In severe cases where conservative treatments fail, corticosteroid injections or surgery may be necessary to remove fibrous tissues that permanently compress the nerve. Continuing conservative care after surgery is essential to prevent recurrence. If you are experiencing symptoms of Morton’s neuroma, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Surgical Group. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, is a common circulatory condition characterized by narrowed arteries in the limbs, primarily the legs, due to the buildup of plaque. While PAD can affect anyone, certain risk factors increase its likelihood. Age is a significant factor, as the risk of PAD increases with advancing years. Smoking, a well-known risk factor, significantly accelerates the development of PAD. Diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol levels also contribute to arterial narrowing, making individuals with these conditions more susceptible. A family history of vascular disease may indicate a genetic predisposition. Lifestyle choices, such as a sedentary lifestyle and a diet high in saturated fats, can exacerbate PAD risk factors. Understanding these risk factors is crucial because PAD can lead to serious complications such as reduced mobility and non-healing ulcers, in addition to an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. Early detection and management, through lifestyle modifications and medical interventions, can help mitigate these risks and improve overall vascular health. If you suspect you may have PAD or have multiple risk factors, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for evaluation and guidance.

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Surgical Group. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

• Claudication (leg pain from walking)
• Numbness in legs
• Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
• Paleness of the skin
• Erectile dysfunction
• Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
• Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

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

Ankle sprains happen again and again, and about one in five cases that start as short-term issues become long-term problems affecting the ankle. These long-term problems often occur because the initial sprain was not properly treated. Getting the correct diagnosis is very important. Special tests such as the varus stress test and the anterior drawer test can help doctors determine what the cause is. Occasionally,  doctors may miss another issue called subtalar instability, which can also cause long-term ankle problems. Most of the time, simple treatments work for short-term sprains, but for long-term issues, surgery may be needed. Knowing the structure of the ankle and how it works may help to improve surgery and other treatments. Surgeries often repair the natural structure of the ankle and may use tendons to make it stronger. A type of surgery called arthroscopy is becoming popular for treating long-term ankle problems because it is less invasive. If you have ongoing ankle issues, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and offer the correct treatment for you.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Surgical Group. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

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

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

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

Ingrown toenails are a common and often painful foot condition that can disrupt daily life. Understanding the definition and recognizing the symptoms is essential for managing this ailment effectively. An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of a toenail, usually the big toe, grows into the surrounding skin instead of over it. This can lead to redness, swelling, and tenderness along the side of the affected toe. As the nail continues to dig into the skin, it can cause pain and discomfort, making it a challenge to wear shoes or walk comfortably. In some cases, ingrown toenails can become infected, resulting in pus drainage and increased pain. The common culprits behind ingrown toenails include improper nail trimming, wearing tight-fitting shoes, hereditary factors, or injury. It is helpful for individuals with diabetes, poor circulation, or weakened immunity to be especially cautious, as ingrown toenails can lead to more severe complications. Timely intervention is important. Soaking the foot in warm, soapy water, gently lifting the ingrown edge of the nail, and keeping the area clean can help alleviate symptoms. If you have developed an ingrown toenail, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Surgical Group. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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