Items filtered by date: February 2020

A form of arthritis that generally affects more men than women is referred to as gout. It typically targets the big toe, and common symptoms can include intense pain, swelling, and the toe may appear red or inflamed. This uncomfortable condition may be caused by elevated uric acid levels in the bloodstream. When specific types of foods are eaten, the uric acid levels may increase as a result of excess purines. These foods can include shellfish, red meat, and drinks that have large amounts of sugar. Crystals form in and around the joints of the feet, and this may cause severe pain. There can be existing health conditions that may lead to the development of gout. These can consist of diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity. If you are experiencing gout, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition, and help you to implement a healthy lifestyle.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Elliot T. Udell, DPM from New York. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle 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 Hicksville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

In order to help strengthen your feet and prevent getting an injury, it’s recommended that you incorporate foot stretches in your daily routine. Performing these light exercises during your warmup before a run may help keep your feet flexible, and better prepare them for the activity. One type of exercise you can practice is the big toe extension lunge. To perform this, start by standing inside a door frame and leaning your big toe against the wall angled upward. You will begin to feel a stretch in your big toe once you begin to lunge forward. Another type of foot stretch you can practice is done by rolling either a lacrosse ball or massage ball back and forth under the arch of your foot. This kind of stretch is particularly useful after a run, as it helps to relax the muscles underneath your foot. For more tips on stretching your feet, we recommend you speak with a podiatrist for professional advice.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Elliot T. Udell, DPM from New York. Our doctor 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 feel free to contact our office located in Hicksville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Many people are afflicted with a condition that is known as cracked heels. This is an ailment that produces dry skin, which may lead to the skin painfully splitting or cracking. Common reasons for cracked heels to develop can include standing for the majority of the day, or wearing shoes that have an open back. Additionally, there are medical conditions that can contribute to the development of this condition. These may consist of diabetes, psoriasis, or thyroid disorders. Some patients find moderate relief when the feet are washed in warm water, followed by using a good moisturizer several times throughout the day. If you have cracked heels, and would like additional information about how to prevent and treat this condition, we recommend that you consult with a podiatrist.

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 Elliot T. Udell, DPM from New York. 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

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

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 our office located in Hicksville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.