Gout is a form of arthritis that commonly affects the feet, especially the big toe joint, and develops when uric acid crystals build up around a joint. The earliest stage of gout, called asymptomatic hyperuricemia, involves crystal deposits without pain. The second stage, acute intermittent gout, is when sudden attacks occur, often at night or early in the morning. These episodes cause severe pain, redness, swelling, and warmth in the affected toe, ankle, or foot joint. It sometimes makes it difficult to walk or even touch the area. If gout is not properly managed, it can progress to chronic tophaceous gout, where hard deposits, known as tophi, form under the skin or within joints. This advanced stage can cause ongoing pain, deformity, stiffness, and limited mobility in the toes, feet, or ankles. If you are experiencing foot pain related to gout, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and ongoing help managing this painful condition.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Darline Kulhan, DPM from Scarsdale Foot Specialists PC. 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 Scarsdale, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Toenail fungus is a common infection that affects the nails, causing them to become thick, brittle, and discolored. Symptoms may include yellow or white spots, nail crumbling, foul odor, and discomfort while walking. Causes often involve exposure to warm moist environments, such as public showers, gyms, or tight footwear that traps sweat. Risk factors include diabetes, poor circulation, weakened immunity, or repeated trauma to the nails. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition, provide effective treatments, such as topical or oral antifungal medications, or safe nail debridement, and offer advice on prevention. If you have symptoms of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for treatment.

For more information about treatment, contact Darline Kulhan, DPM of Scarsdale Foot Specialists PC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

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

Sesamoiditis is a painful condition that affects the small sesamoid bones located beneath the big toe joint. These bones help with movement and weight bearing, but can become inflamed from repetitive stress or injury. Common causes include activities that place pressure on the forefoot, such as running, dancing, or wearing high-heeled shoes. Risk factors include foot structure abnormalities, overuse, and improper footwear. Symptoms include pain under the big toe, swelling, and difficulty pushing off while walking. A podiatrist can diagnose sesamoiditis, provide customized treatment options, such as padding, orthotics, and activity modifications, and offer long-term solutions for relief. If you are experiencing forefoot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat the problem.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Darline Kulhan, DPM of Scarsdale Foot Specialists PC. Our doctor will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

• Sudden increase in activity
• Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
• Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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