Items filtered by date: April 2023

An arthritic condition known as gout is primarily caused by having an excess amount of uric acid in the system. This buildup produces uric crystals that form in the joints, frequently in the big toe. The result is extreme pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness to the touch. Gout crystals, also known as monosodium urate crystals, accumulate in the joints when the body is unable to remove excess uric acid through the digestive system or kidneys. People with diabetes, weakened kidneys, or metabolism issues may be more likely to experience a buildup of gout crystals. The likelihood of developing them increases if you eat foods that contain high levels of purines. These include seafood, fish, alcoholic drinks, shellfish, and red meats. Other factors that can produce gout crystals are obesity, heart disease, certain types of medication, and genetics. Men tend to be more at risk for gout, especially those between the ages of 30 and 50. In women, symptoms are more likely to develop after menopause. For help with recurring gout flare ups, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who is trained to deal with this condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact the foot specialists from Table Mountain Foot and Ankle. 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 Wheat Ridge, CO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Diabetics are often at risk of other conditions that negatively affect their feet. These include peripheral neuropathy, which renders the feet numb, and peripheral artery disease, which slows the healing process. Both are the result of maintaining high blood sugar levels. Any sore or bruise on the feet that are not tended to immediately can easily become ulcerous. Termed foot ulcers, these open sores or wounds are usually found on the sole of the foot or the bottom of the big toe. Unless the diabetic’s feet are checked daily for such injuries, they can easily go undetected. An open foot ulcer increases the chance of developing an infection, which in turn can involve deeper layers of the skin, muscles, tendons, bones, and joints. In the most severe cases, surgery is required and loss of a limb is a possibility. If you are at risk of developing diabetic foot ulcers, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who is trained to deal with diabetes-related problems. 

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact the foot specialists from Table Mountain Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Flip-flops are foot coverings most appropriate for wearing in gym locker room areas, the beach, and around the swimming pool. While easy to put on and take off, these thin-soled sandals lack proper support, especially at the arch area, and can cause plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is a painful foot ailment that happens when the plantar fascia, the band of connective tissue that runs from the heels to the toes, becomes irritated or inflamed. The pain from plantar fasciitis is particularly bad when taking one’s first steps in the morning, walking, or standing for a prolonged time. This condition, left untreated, can also cause a heel spur or a calcium deposit to develop. Rest, stretching, and strength training exercises can help relieve pain from plantar fasciitis. However, if the pain does not decrease, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist to diagnose the condition and obtain treatment options properly.

Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact the foot specialists from Table Mountain Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops.  Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off; they're perfect for any summer beach goer.  However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.

How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?

• Ankle problems
• Hip problems
• Lower back problems
• Pain in the balls of the feet
• Problems with foot arches
• Changes in the way you walk

Are There Injuries Associated with Flip-Flops?

Yes.  Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops regularly are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections.  Common injuries and ailments include:

• Sprained ankles
• Blisters
• Infections
• Cuts and Scrapes

I like Wearing Flip-Flops. Are There Safe Alternatives?

When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and that are made of high-quality materials that will support for your feet.  These flip-flops will cost more but will also last longer as a result.

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

Pickleball is a cross between tennis, badminton, and ping-pong in that it consists of players moving across a court and hitting a ball over a net. Such movement has overall health benefits, specifically for the feet. Pickleball is a low-impact aerobic exercise and competitors are at less risk for blood clots, especially those who are overweight. Pickleball is also a weight-bearing activity in that the movement necessary to play the game requires the feet to support the body. It can help strengthen muscles in the ankles and legs. Additionally, pickleball can help improve circulation because a higher heart rate causes blood to circulate throughout the body faster. Like any sport, there is a risk of injury while playing pickleball. However, it is a relatively slow game, and the court is smaller so there is less risk of injury from lunging after the ball. The muscle strengthening benefits can help keep the joints flexible, which also helps in reducing injury while playing the game and outside of the game. If you are considering playing pickleball, or if you have sustained an injury to your feet and ankles in this sport, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist for suggestions or treatment.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with the foot specialists from Table Mountain Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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