Gout is a painful joint condition that develops when excess uric acid in the body forms sharp crystals inside a joint, most commonly in the big toe. A gout attack often begins suddenly, and may wake a person during the night with intense throbbing pain, swelling, and extreme tenderness. The joint can look red, shiny, and feel hot to the touch, making even the pressure of a bedsheet uncomfortable. Some patients also notice stiffness or difficulty walking during a flare-up. Gout may be linked to kidney function, dehydration, certain medications, family history, or diets high in purines found in foods such as red meat and shellfish. Repeated attacks can lead to lasting joint damage if the condition is not properly managed. A podiatrist can help recognize the signs of gout, evaluate the affected joint, and recommend treatment to reduce inflammation and improve comfort. If you have symptoms of gout, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and prevention solutions.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Lewis Wolstein, DPM, P.C. & Associates. 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 Co-Op City, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Tendinopathies of the foot and ankle refer to irritation or breakdown of tendons, the strong bands that connect muscle to bone and help control movement. Common examples include Achilles tendinopathy, pain and thickening of the tendon at the back of the heel, and posterior tibial tendon dysfunction, in addition to a weakening of the tendon that supports the arch, and irritation of tendons along the outer ankle that help stabilize the foot. These conditions often develop from overuse, poor foot mechanics, sudden increases in activity, or wearing unsupportive shoes. Symptoms may include aching pain, stiffness, swelling, or weakness, especially during or after movement. Early care can prevent worsening. Rest, activity changes, wearing supportive footwear, and targeted exercises are often helpful. Custom orthotics may reduce strain on affected tendons. In some cases, imaging and more advanced treatments are needed to guide healing and restore function. Ignoring symptoms can lead to chronic pain or tearing. If tendon pain is limiting your activity or comfort, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists  from Lewis Wolstein, DPM, P.C. & Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Co-Op City, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis is a painful condition that causes heel and arch discomfort, especially with the first steps in the morning. Exercise can play an important role in easing symptoms and improving function over time. Strengthening the small and large muscles of the foot helps support the arch and reduce strain on the plantar fascia. Working the muscles of the hips, especially those that stabilize movement, can also improve alignment and reduce stress placed on the feet while walking or running. Simple stretching on its own can help loosen tight tissues and improve flexibility, which may decrease tension and pain. These approaches are often more effective when combined and guided properly. A podiatrist can create a plan that targets your specific needs and monitor your progress to prevent setbacks. If you have ongoing heel pain, it is suggested that you seek care from a podiatrist.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with one of our podiatrists from Lewis Wolstein, DPM, P.C. & Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.

Great ways to stretch your feet:

• Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
• Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
• Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle

Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Co-Op City, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes inflammation of the joints and surrounding soft tissues. It commonly affects the small joints of the feet, leading to pain, swelling, and progressive deformity. This inflammation can make walking difficult and reduce overall mobility. Risk factors include family history, smoking, and long-term immune system dysfunction. Symptoms often include joint stiffness, especially in the morning, tenderness, swelling, and changes in foot shape over time. A podiatrist can help by assessing foot structure, providing supportive devices, recommending footwear modifications, and managing pain and pressure points. If you have RA, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition and maintain mobility.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Lewis Wolstein, DPM, P.C. & Associates. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

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