Gout is a type of arthritis that results from the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, and while it is more commonly associated with adults, it can also occur in children. This condition can lead to sudden and intense episodes of pain, swelling, and redness in the affected joints, often starting in the big toe but potentially affecting other areas as well. Symptoms may include persistent joint discomfort, difficulty moving the affected joint, and inflammation that can last for days or weeks. In some cases, children may experience fever alongside these symptoms. Identifying gout in children is important for timely treatment and management, which often involves dietary changes and medication to control uric acid levels. If your child has symptoms of gout, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and management strategies.
Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Howard Waxman, DPM from Pleasant Valley Podiatry. 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
Risk Factors
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 one of our offices located in Willoughby Hills and Broadview Heights, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Cracked heels are a common issue that can lead to discomfort, pain, and in severe cases, infection. Cracked heels develop when thickened skin on the heels, called calluses, becomes dry and splits open due to pressure from walking or standing. This is particularly common in people with diabetes or circulation issues, like peripheral artery disease. Callused skin first develops as a protective response to friction and pressure, but it can crack if it becomes too dry. The subsequent heel fissures can cause discomfort, make walking difficult and increase the chances of infection. A podiatrist can help by carefully debriding thickened calluses to reduce pressure and advising on proper foot care and moisturizing techniques. This foot doctor can also determine if you have any underlying issues that may need medical attention. Such a proactive approach can help reduce the risk of complications and promote foot health. If you have problematic cracked heels, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.
If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Howard Waxman, DPM from Pleasant Valley Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Cracked Heels
It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.
Ways to Help Heal Them
Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels
If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Willoughby Hills and Broadview Heights, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Kidney disease can lead to significant foot problems as a result of damage to the nerves and blood vessels in your lower limbs. As kidney function declines, circulation to the feet may decrease, and you may lose sensation in your feet, which makes it hard to detect injuries or infections. Reduced circulation also means wounds heal more slowly. This increases the risk of foot ulcers, which can lead to serious complications, including infections and in severe cases loss of limb. Other common problems include hard skin buildup, changes in foot shape, and a higher risk of developing blisters or sores. People undergoing dialysis or with advanced kidney disease are at even greater risk. A podiatrist plays a vital role in managing risks caused by kidney disease by performing regular foot assessments, recommending appropriate footwear, and treating skin and nail issues. They help create an ongoing care plan that can reduce the likelihood of further complications. If you have foot problems as a result of kidney disease, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and treatment.
When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact Howard Waxman, DPM from Pleasant Valley Podiatry. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.
Systemic Diseases of the Feet
Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable. Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.
Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.
Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.
Diabetes of the Feet
Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.
Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Willoughby Hills and Broadview Heights, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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.
Foot stress fractures are hairline cracks in the bones often caused by repetitive strain. Several risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing stress fractures, especially in the feet. People who participate in high-impact activities, such as running, dancing, or gymnastics, face a higher risk of stress fractures from the repeated pressure and pounding on their feet. Women, particularly those experiencing menstrual irregularities, may be more prone to fractures due to lower bone density. Conditions like osteoporosis or insufficient intake of vitamin D and calcium can further weaken bones and increase the risk. Foot structure issues, such as high arches or flat feet, can also lead to stress fractures, as well as wearing poor footwear or sudden changes in activity surfaces. Podiatrists play a key role in diagnosing and managing foot stress fractures. This foot doctor may use imaging techniques such as MRI scans to confirm the injury. If you have foot pain that may indicate a stress fracture, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.
Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Howard Waxman, DPM from Pleasant Valley Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.
Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle
Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use. The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.
What Are Stress Fractures?
Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:
Symptoms
Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Willoughby Hills and Broadview Heights, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Pickleball, while a fun and engaging sport, can lead to various foot and ankle injuries due to its fast-paced nature and quick movements. One common injury is an ankle sprain, which often occurs when players twist or land awkwardly during play, resulting in pain and swelling. Another frequent pickleball injury is plantar fasciitis, characterized by heel pain that develops from repetitive stress and strain on the plantar fascia. Achilles tendonitis can also arise from overuse, causing discomfort at the back of the heel. Additionally, blisters and calluses may develop due to friction from quick lateral movements and improper footwear. If you have suffered a foot or ankle injury from playing pickleball, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat these conditions and guide you on effective injury prevention techniques.
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 Howard Waxman, DPM from Pleasant Valley Podiatry. Our doctor 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:
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 one of our offices located in Willoughby Hills and Broadview Heights, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Falling outside the home can pose a significant risk, especially for older adults. Falls outside the home can be caused by uneven terrain, slippery surfaces, or crowded areas. Parks, parking lots, and public staircases are common spots where falls may occur, leading to serious injuries like broken bones. Footwear choices play a vital role in preventing falls. Your shoes should offer solid support, fit properly, and have non-slip soles to provide stability. Balance issues, lower extremity weakness, or joint pain can also increase the risk of falls outside the home. A podiatrist can assess these factors, recommend supportive footwear, and suggest custom orthotics to improve balance. This foot doctor can address underlying foot conditions that might compromise your stability or suggest exercises and assistive devices to improve balance. If you have injured your foot or ankle from falling, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment methods.
Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Howard Waxman, DPM from Pleasant Valley Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.
Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.
How to Prevent Falls
Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:
Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Willoughby Hills and Broadview Heights, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Plantar fasciitis is caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a ligament that runs from the heel to the ball of the foot, supporting the arch. The main symptoms of plantar fasciitis is sharp pain in the heel or arch that is often more severe in the morning or after prolonged standing. Heel pain may improve slightly after walking but often returns with continued activity. Risk factors for plantar fasciitis include flat feet, high arches, obesity, and repetitive activities like running. Tight calf muscles can also increase the likelihood of developing this condition. A podiatrist can evaluate your symptoms and recommend treatment options. Included are stretching exercises, footwear adjustments, and custom orthotics. Surgery may be suggested in more severe cases. If you have heel pain caused by plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Howard Waxman, DPM from Pleasant Valley Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
How Can It Be Treated?
While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Willoughby Hills and Broadview Heights, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.
Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, is a chronic inflammatory condition that can significantly impact the feet, leading to a range of symptoms and joint issues. Common signs include pain, swelling, and stiffness in the feet, which often worsen with movement and can limit daily activities. The joints most frequently affected are the metatarsophalangeal joints, located at the base of the toes, as well as the midfoot joints. These areas may become inflamed, causing deformities like bunions or hammertoes. Over time, the inflammation can damage the cartilage and bone, resulting in reduced joint function. Early diagnosis and treatment are vital to managing symptoms and preserving foot mobility. If you have symptoms of RA in the feet, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.
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 Howard Waxman, DPM of Pleasant Valley Podiatry. Our doctor 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
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 one of our offices located in Willoughby Hills and Broadview Heights, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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