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What Is Gout and Who Gets It?

Gout is a type of painful inflammatory arthritis that affects joints. It is caused by the buildup of uric acid in the body, which is a substance produced from the breakdown of purines. Purines are naturally occurring in the body, but they also come from some foods, such as red meat, oily fish, organ meats, and high sugar beverages, including alcohol. When more uric acid is produced than can be excreted, it can form into crystals that settle in the joints and one can have a gout attack. Usually, excess uric acid is secreted through the kidneys, but sometimes this does not happen because of conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or enzyme abnormalities. Gout can be a hereditary condition and is more common in men. It may also affect women after menopause. The key symptoms of gout are swelling, redness, and severe pain in the affected joint. It can attack a person in spurts and commonly affects the joint at the base of the big toe. It can be uncomfortable to walk and wear shoes. If your big toe hurts, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper evaluation and guidance on how to manage gout or anything else that might be going on.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dean Kim, DPM from Greater Texas Foot & Ankle Specialist. Our doctor 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 Frisco, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Everything You Need to Know About Gout

Stretching May Relieve Arch and Heel

The arch is responsible for several functions in the foot, and may become painful for various reasons. Performing specific stretches may help to relieve any discomfort, and bring overall relief to the entire foot. The plantar fascia is located on the bottom of the foot, and connects the heel to the toes. The arch is often affected if the plantar fascia becomes inflamed, and mild relief may be found when it is frequently stretched. This can be done by sitting in a chair with the affected foot on the other knee. The foot can be grasped in one hand, while holding the foot with the other hand, and pulling the heel back. The plantar fascia can also be stretched while kneeling with the hands and knees on the floor. A gentle stretch can be felt while sitting back on the heels. Many people find relief when they place their foot on a frozen water bottle and roll it back and forth several times. If you would like more information about how to relieve arch and heel pain, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can provide you with the information you are seeking.

Why Stretching Is Important for Your Feet

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Dean Kim, DPM from Greater Texas Foot & Ankle Specialist. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first to determine if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

  • Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
  • Similar to the previous exercise, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
  • Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
  • Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising to ice and rest the foot. It is advised that you then see a podiatrist for help.

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

Read more about Stretching Your Feet

Hammertoe Surgery

A hammertoe occurs when one of the three middle toes bends upward at the middle joint. Corns and calluses that can develop on the hammertoe can make wearing shoes and walking uncomfortable. If lifestyle changes, such as wearing wider shoes, using shoe inserts, or doing stretching and strengthening toe exercises do not help, surgery can be considered to correct a hammertoe. Hammertoe surgery is not a good option for those who have poor circulation in their feet, have a foot infection, or have other health problems making surgery a risk. If considered a good candidate for this surgery, it is typically a procedure that can be done as an outpatient under general anesthesia or using numbing medications. If the hammertoe is still somewhat flexible, a tendon transfer involving redirecting tendons from the bottom of the toe to the top where it is bent can be done to straighten the toe. If the hammertoe is fixed or rigid, a joint resection or fusion can be done. Joint resection is when tendons and ligaments are cut to help straighten the toe and the end of the bone is cut off so the toe can be fully extended. In fusion surgery, the ligaments and tendons are also cut but the two bones forming the affected joint are also cut for straightening the toe. If you have a painful hammertoe, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to see if more conservative treatment is possible or whether surgery is an option for you.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Dean Kim, DPM from Greater Texas Foot & Ankle Specialist. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

  • Pain in the affected toes
  • Development of corns or calluses due to friction
  • Inflammation
  • Redness
  • Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

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

Read More About Hammertoes

Plantar Fasciitis and Surgery

The foot condition that is known as plantar fasciitis may require foot surgery to be performed. If other treatment methods are unsuccessful, patients may consider surgery as an option for permanent relief. Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia becomes irritated or torn, which may happen from standing on hard surfaces for long periods of time. The plantar fascia is found on the bottom of the foot and connects the heels to the toes. The pain is often felt in the heel and lower leg and can cause difficulty in completing daily activities. Patients that have severe pain with this condition can find it can be uncomfortable to walk, causing them to look for relief options. When surgery is performed, the fascia is detached from the heel bone, and this can be successful in relieving tension. New growth occurs during the healing process, which may lengthen the fascia. If you suffer from this painful condition, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who will help you to determine if foot surgery is right for you. 

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Dean Kim, DPM from Greater Texas Foot & Ankle Specialist. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

  • Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
  • Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
  • Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

  • Bunionectomy for painful bunions
  • Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
  • Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Read More About Foot Surgery

Are You Suffering From Ingrown Toenails?

If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!

Surgery for Bunions

Even if you are unfamiliar with the field of podiatry, you might have already heard about the foot condition known as bunions. Bunions are a kind of bony bump that can form on the outer side of the big toe. There are many ways to treat a bunion and they often depend on the severity of the patient's case. For example, a podiatrist might recommend a surgical procedure if the bunion is particularly severe. A surgical procedure might be effective in treating bunions because it realigns the joints and removes the bony growth. If you are suffering from significant pain from the bunion or a toe deformity, this might be an indication that surgery be considered. Importantly, there are many types of bunion surgeries, including a bunionectomy and osteotomy. If you are currently living with a bunion, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist for more information about treatment options.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Dean Kim, DPM from Greater Texas Foot & Ankle Specialist. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

  • Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
  • Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
  • Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

  • Bunionectomy for painful bunions
  • Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
  • Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Read More About Foot Surgery

Causes of Hammertoe

A hammertoe is a deformity that is usually found in the second toe when the middle joint rises upward and the tip of the toe bends downward. It is so named because the resulting toe resembles the shape of a claw hammer. While some people are genetically predisposed to the formation of a hammertoe, in many cases the main cause is improper footwear. Wearing shoes that are short, narrow, and too tight can contribute to hammertoe formation. When the toe is forced into a bent position, the muscles and tendons in that toe shorten. Women are more at risk of hammertoe because they are more likely to wear high heels with pointed, low, and narrow toe boxes. Children who wear shoes that are too small for them are also at greater risk. Other causes of hammertoe include Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease and rheumatoid arthritis. If you have a hammertoe, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist, who is a foot doctor that is trained to deal with such maladies and can suggest appropriate treatment options.  

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Dean Kim, DPM from Greater Texas Foot & Ankle Specialist. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

  • Pain in the affected toes
  • Development of corns or calluses due to friction
  • Inflammation
  • Redness
  • Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

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

Read More About Hammertoe

Genetics and Wearing High Heels May Cause Bunions

People who have bunions report it can be one of the most painful foot conditions to have. It is defined as a bony protrusion that forms on the side of the big toe, and will gradually become larger if treatment is not received. A bunion can be caused by genetic reasons, or from wearing shoes that have a tapered toe area. High heels can fit into this category, and it is beneficial to choose shoes that have a lower heel if these types of shoes need to be worn. Corns and calluses may form on top of the toes, as they touch the top of the shoe. This can be uncomfortable, and mild relief may be felt when the shoes that are worn can accommodate the bunion. If the bunion becomes severe and causes the inability to complete daily activities, surgery may be an option to consider for removal and permanent relief. If you see a bunion that is starting to form, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who offers you treatment options that are right for you.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Dean Kim, DPM from Greater Texas Foot & Ankle Specialist. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

  • Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
  • Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
  • Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
  • Orthotics or foot inserts
  • Surgery

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

Read More About Bunions 

How Stretches Can Benefit the Feet

Given the many sources of pain and tightness our feet can endure in life, it behooves us to take regular care of our feet, including stretching them. Moving around in daily life, airplane flights, long car rides, and vigorous exercise can all impact the comfort of our feet. Painful, swollen feet can lead to pain above the feet as well, including the ankles, knees, hips, and back. Stretches can be performed to soothe the feet, improve flexibility, and help with circulation. A few examples of foot stretches include the point and flex exercise, the foot prayer, and the inner ankle stretch. The point and flex exercise is done while sitting on the floor or a workout bench with the feet pointed out in front of you. From this position, point and flex the feet and toes repeatedly. The foot prayer consists of sitting in the same position and then rotating the feet inward, bringing the soles of the feet together. Hold for three seconds before straightening the legs out and repeating. The inner ankle stretch also starts with the feet pointed out in front of you and the feet flexed. The feet should then be rotated outward until a gentle stretch is felt in the inner ankle and foot. As with the prior exercise, stretching should be held for three seconds and repeated. If you regularly suffer from foot pain or tightness and want more information on stretches you can do for your feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist for further discussion on this issue.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Dean Kim, DPM from Greater Texas Foot & Ankle Specialist. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

  • Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
  • Similar to the previous one, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
  • Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
  • Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising and ice and rest the foot. It is advised to then see a podiatrist for help.

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

Read more about How to Stretch Your Feet

Let the Expert Treat Your Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails can be painful and can make wearing shoes or walking uncomfortable. Seek professional help if you believe you've developed an ingrown toenail and be treated safely. 

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