(205) 633-3606
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Arthritis can affect a person in many different ways. One form of inflammatory arthritis is known as gout, which may often cause issues for the toes, specifically the big toe. Gout typically develops due to a buildup of uric acid when the body tries to break down purines found in foods. Dietary changes may be effective in reducing purine levels as well as the likelihood of a gout flare up. Drinking a lot of water may help with the swelling and inflammation that is often caused by gout. Another method of reducing gout-related inflammation, is by icing the affected joints and keeping the feet elevated. As far as reducing your purine levels, it’s advised that you avoid meats and fish such as bacon, turkey, scallops, and muscles, to name a few. For more advice on how to manage your gout, we recommend that you consult with a podiatrist for professional care.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Robert Hope from Riverside Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot 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 Tuscaloosa, and Fayette, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot needs.
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Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.
Teenagers who are physically active may experience a painful condition that is known as Sever’s disease. It was discovered and named in 1912, and is considered to be the most common form of heel pain in children. This condition affects the growth plate in the heel, and generally occurs during growing spurts. Performing certain sporting activities may put excess pressure on the heels, and may contribute to severe pain and swelling. Factors that may precede developing Sever’s disease can include having flat feet, wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, or having one leg that is shorter than the other leg. The foot may feel better when it is elevated as frequently as possible, in addition to wearing supportive shoes and inserts. If your child is afflicted with Sever’s disease, it is advised that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.
Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or pain, see Dr. Robert Hope from Riverside Podiatry. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot needs.
Sever’s Disease
Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.
Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.
Symptoms
Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.
Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Tuscaloosa, and Fayette, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot injuries.
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A podiatrist is a doctor that specializes in treating foot conditions. The initials DPM will generally appear after their name, and are an abbreviation for Doctor of Podiatric Medicine. Foot ailments these physicians typically treat can include plantar fasciitis, bunions, and hammertoes. Mandatory schooling consists of four years of podiatry medical school, followed by three years of specialized training. Some doctors choose to perform surgery to remove tumors, bunions, and heel spurs. If you are interested in pursuing podiatry as a career choice, it is advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can provide you with the information you need that may help you to make a decision.
If you are dealing with pain in your feet, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to contact Dr. Robert Hope from Riverside Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is a Podiatrist?
A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine who diagnoses and treats conditions of the foot, , and related structures of the leg. Your podiatrist may specialize in a certain field such as sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics, and diabetic care. Podiatrists have the ability to become board certified through training, clinical experience, and then taking an exam.
What Do Podiatrists Do?
On a daily basis, a podiatrist may perform the following activities:
It is very important that you take care of your feet. It’s easy to take having healthy feet for granted, however foot problems tend to be among the most common health conditions. Podiatrists can help diagnose and treat a variety of feet related conditions, so it is crucial that you visit one if you need assistance.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Tuscaloosa, and Fayette, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot needs.
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When babies are born, their feet are generally soft and flexible. Research has shown the feet may become stronger when walking is done barefoot while indoors. This may help to strengthen the overall foot as the toes grasp the floor for balance. When the first pair of shoes are purchased, it is helpful that the shoes are made of lightweight and breathable materials. Additionally, there needs to be adequate room at the top of the shoes so the toes can move freely. This may help to prevent ingrown toenails from developing. Good foot hygiene begins with teaching your child how to properly wash and dry their feet, in addition to helping them to stretch their feet. If you would like more information about how to care for children’s feet, please consult with a podiatrist.
Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Dr. Robert Hope of Riverside Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...
Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.
Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.
Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.
As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’.
As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.
Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.
Be watchful for any pain or injury.
Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.
Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Tuscaloosa, and Fayette, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot needs.
Read more about What to Do to Keep Your Child’s Feet Healthy 
