Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, often affecting the big toe. This condition leads to sudden and severe pain, redness, and swelling. Risk factors include obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, and a diet high in red meat, seafood, and alcohol. Symptoms can come on quickly and may return if not properly managed. To reduce the risk of flare-ups, individuals are encouraged to consume low-purine foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and plenty of water. A podiatrist can help by diagnosing the condition, managing pain, and offering long-term strategies. If you have gout attacks, it is suggested that you seek care from a podiatrist to manage gout effectively and protect your joint health.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Geller Foot Clinic. 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 Lathrup Village, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar fasciitis causes pain in the heel and bottom of the foot. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that supports the arch, becomes inflamed or irritated. Causes include repetitive strain, long periods of standing, improper footwear, or sudden increases in activity. Symptoms often begin with sharp heel pain, especially with the first steps in the morning or after rest. Risk factors include high arches, flat feet, obesity, and tight calf muscles. A podiatrist can diagnose plantar fasciitis through examination and recommend treatments, such as stretching exercises, footwear changes, orthotics, or other therapies to relieve pain, improve function, and prevent further injury. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose the problem and offer effective treatment solutions.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists  from Geller Foot Clinic. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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

Foot cramps are painful muscle spasms that can strike suddenly and interfere with daily activities. Common causes include wearing tight footwear that restricts circulation and strains foot muscles. Dehydration can reduce electrolyte balance, leading to poor muscle function. Overexertion from prolonged walking, exercise, or standing places stress on the muscles, making cramps more likely. Low potassium levels can also contribute by affecting nerve signals that control muscle movements. While occasional cramps are common, frequent or severe episodes may signal an underlying issue. A podiatrist can assess your symptoms, identify possible causes, and recommend solutions such as wearing better footwear, stretching routines, or dietary adjustments. If foot cramps are disrupting your routine, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for professional guidance and relief.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Geller Foot Clinic. 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 Lathrup Village, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.