Gout is a particular kind of foot affliction that is essentially a form of inflammatory arthritis. In particular, gout is often characterized by pain in the joints of the feet. There are specific types of foods that are either good or bad for increasing the risk of gout. Importantly, plant-based foods can decrease the risk of triggering a gout attack. The reason for this is that plant-based foods are especially low in purines. There are many different types of plant-based foods. The list includes beans, seeds, nuts, vegetables, and whole grains. If you are someone that has gout attacks, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can help you to find relief and manage this painful condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one our our podiatrists from Newtown Comprehensive Foot Care. 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 Newtown, CT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

For some seniors that have yet to retire, working in the office can present dangers to the health of their feet. For instance, as a senior gets older, they can become increasingly susceptible to suffering from falls or trips that can lead to foot conditions like fractures. There are certain steps that a senior might consider taking in their office to prevent falls or trips. Specifically, many workers might have extension cords and wires surrounding their desks. This can present a significant tripping hazard, making falls more likely. A senior worker might consider cleaning up the cords to minimize any potential tripping hazards. Additionally, a senior worker could possibly ensure that the floors in their office space are dry. In other words, having liquids on the floor can increase the likelihood of falls. If you are someone that is a senior and is still working in the office, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist to learn more about fall prevention and the effect falling can have on the feet.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one our our podiatrists from Newtown Comprehensive Foot Care. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

Athlete’s foot is a common and often uncomfortable foot infection caused by having contact with a fungus known as trichophyton. It often affects the space between the toes, and sometimes is found on the bottom of the feet. Unfortunately, it is quite easy to get athlete's foot, which is extremely contagious if certain conditions are met. This fungus thrives in warm and moist places, such as the inside of shoes. Symptoms of athlete’s foot are easy to recognize. The most noticeable signs are itchy toes and dry skin. The infected skin can become chapped and flaked when the shoes are removed and the toes are exposed to dry air. The skin also may begin to ooze fluid, especially if the infection is not treated immediately. The affected area may begin to redden, which is exacerbated by scratching. To make matters worse, the open skin can attract bacteria, further infecting the foot. That may produce swelling, which can be quite painful. At this point, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer an array of treatment options to deal with an athlete’s foot infection.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one our our podiatrists from Newtown Comprehensive Foot Care. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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