Items filtered by date: January 2024

Gout, a form of inflammatory arthritis, develops when there is an excess buildup of uric acid in the body, leading to the formation of needle-like crystals in the joints. The primary cause of gout lies in the body's inability to metabolize uric acid efficiently, resulting in its accumulation. Dietary factors, such as consuming purine-rich foods like organ meats and certain seafood contribute to elevated uric acid levels. Additionally, genetic predispositions and underlying health conditions, such as kidney dysfunction, may increase the risk of gout. Diagnosis involves a comprehensive examination by podiatrists, considering symptoms like sudden, intense joint pain, swelling, and redness. Blood tests may be conducted to measure uric acid levels, and imaging studies such as X-rays or ultrasound can aid in visualizing joint damage. If you have been afflicted with gout, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to successfully manage this condition.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our doctors from Godoy Foot and Ankle Center. 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 Wayne, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar fasciitis, an often debilitating foot condition, emerges as a result of inflammation in the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue connecting the heel to the toes. This inflammation occurs when the tissue endures excessive stress or strain, leading to small tears and irritation. The plantar fascia plays a vital role in supporting the arch of the foot, and when subjected to prolonged or repetitive stress, it becomes vulnerable to damage. The primary cause of plantar fasciitis is often attributed to overuse or excessive strain on the feet, commonly seen in activities like running, standing for extended periods, or wearing unsupportive footwear. Factors such as obesity, high arches, or abnormal foot mechanics can further increase the risk of developing plantar fasciitis. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat plantar fasciitis.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our doctors from Godoy Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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

Flat feet, often considered a drawback in sports, can actually provide some advantages. Some well-known athletes have flat feet and excel in their respective fields, and roughly 25 percent of the population has flat feet. One key advantage of having flat feet is the ability to absorb shock effectively as a result of increased flexibility in the arch, which aids in controlling and mitigating the impact upon landing. However, individuals with flat feet should focus on strengthening their feet to perform well in sports and minimize potential associated risks. The benefits of having flat feet for speed and injury prevention become evident when we consider that flat arches tend to lower the risk of injuries as they offer more flexibility, enhancing shock absorption capabilities. Additionally, athletes with flat feet often display better control during the landing phase of sprints, optimizing the time their feet spend in contact with the ground. This is mainly because their feet typically make initial ground contact in a neutral or slightly pronated position, allowing for a more efficient transition off the ground. Ultimately, regardless of arch type, the strength and stability of the feet are vital for controlling landings. Weak arch support during landing can lead to extended foot contact or potential injuries. If you have flat feet and they are causing problems in the sports you like to participate in, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation in addition to recommendations on how to strengthen flat feet into a potential advantage.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our doctors from Godoy Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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

Running is an exhilarating pursuit, but for many avid runners, the nagging presence of blisters can turn each stride into a painful ordeal. Blisters are pockets of clear fluid that form on the feet and toes but are largely preventable with the right precautions. These bubbles arise from the friction and heat generated during running. The body's response is the formation of a protective fluid bubble between layers of skin, in an effort to prevent further harm. Blisters are characterized by clear liquid-filled bubbles, occasional redness, or bruising. They can even form beneath toenails, potentially resulting in black toenails if they burst. The primary causes of running blisters are improper shoe fit and wet running conditions. Ill-fitting shoes, whether too large or too tight, create friction, leading to these blister formations. Running in wet conditions simply compounds the issue. Rain, mud, or snow softens the skin, while the heat and sweat produced during running create a humid environment inside the shoe. This supplies a perfect environment for blisters. Neglecting proper care of blisters can increase pain and risk of infection. If you have persistent problems with blisters from running or have one that has become infected, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our doctors of Godoy Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often 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.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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

Athlete's foot, a common fungal infection, unfolds as an uncomfortable and often itchy condition affecting the feet. This ailment thrives in warm and damp environments, making sweaty socks and tight shoes an ideal breeding ground for the fungus trichophyton. The infection typically begins between the toes, presenting as redness, itching, and a burning sensation. As it progresses, athlete's foot can lead to the development of blisters and the peeling of the skin. Beyond the discomfort, this contagious infection can spread to other parts of the body or to others through contact. Prevention involves keeping feet dry, wearing breathable footwear, and practicing good hygiene. If you have any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose this condition and prescribe medication, if warranted.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our doctors from Godoy Foot and Ankle Center.  Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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