Items filtered by date: July 2024

Gout, a form of arthritis caused by uric acid crystal deposits in joints, has several risk factors. Dietary choices high in purines, found in red meat, seafood, and alcohol, contribute to increased uric acid production. Obesity and certain medical conditions like hypertension and diabetes also raise the risk. Age and genetics play roles, with men over 40 and individuals with a family history being more susceptible. Prevention involves dietary adjustments, such as limiting purine-rich foods and alcohol consumption. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise reduces uric acid levels. Staying hydrated supports kidney function in removing uric acid from the body. Medications may be prescribed by a podiatrist to manage uric acid levels in high-risk individuals. If you have gout, it is strongly suggested 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 Melissa C. Verde, DPM from Florida. 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 Longwood, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A sprained ankle occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle joint are stretched or torn, usually due to sudden twists or falls. Symptoms can include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot. Immediate relief tips for a sprained ankle include rest,  compression, and elevation. Resting the ankle prevents further injury, while compression with an elastic bandage helps control swelling, and elevating the ankle above heart level minimizes fluid buildup. If you have sprained your ankle, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer treatment methods for this painful condition.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Melissa C. Verde, DPM from Florida. 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 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 Longwood, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A broken toe, often caused by trauma or repetitive stress, can be identified by symptoms such as swelling, bruising, pain, and difficulty moving the toe. It may appear misshapen or discolored, indicating a fracture. Immediate treatment for a broken toe includes resting and elevating the foot to reduce swelling. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort. Visiting a podiatrist is important for accurate diagnosis and treatment. The podiatrist may order an X-ray to assess the severity of the fracture and recommend appropriate measures, like buddy taping, which secures the broken toe to its neighboring toe. In some cases wearing a splint or special shoe will be recommended, and in severe cases, surgery may be required. Proper care helps the broken toe to heal correctly, which reduces the risk of long-term complications like arthritis or deformity. If you have broken your toe it is suggested you visit a podiatrist who can offer tailored care to facilitate a speedy recovery and prevent further injury.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Melissa C. Verde, DPM from Florida. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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

A heel spur, medically known as a calcaneal spur, is a bony growth that develops on the underside of the heel bone. This condition often results from long-term strain on the foot muscles and ligaments, commonly associated with repetitive activities such as running or jumping. Over time, this strain leads to the accumulation of calcium deposits, forming the bony protrusion. Heel spurs are frequently linked to plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the plantar fascia tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. Factors contributing to heel spur development include wearing ill-fitting shoes, excessive weight, and having flat feet or high arches. If you have heel pain, it may be indicative of a heel spur, and it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and offer a comprehensive treatment plan for heel spurs.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Melissa C. Verde, DPM from Florida. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Longwood, FL . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Sever's disease, medically known as calcaneal apophysitis, is a common cause of heel pain in growing children. This condition occurs when the growth plate in the heel becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress or excessive physical activity. Common causes include participation in sports that involve running or jumping, such as soccer or basketball. Symptoms of Sever's disease include pain and tenderness in the heel, swelling, and difficulty walking. Preventing this condition involves ensuring children wear properly fitting, supportive footwear and encouraging them to stretch before physical activity. Limiting activities that place excessive strain on the heel can also help. Early detection and management are vital to prevent long-term discomfort. If your child has heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist. 

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Melissa C. Verde, DPM from Florida. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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