Gout, a form of inflammatory arthritis, emerges from the crystallization of uric acid within joints, particularly in the lower extremities. Elevated levels of uric acid, a natural by-product of purine metabolism, lead to the formation of needle-like crystals that trigger intense pain and inflammation, typically affecting the big toe. The primary contributors to gout include a diet rich in purine-containing foods, impaired kidney function hindering uric acid elimination, and a genetic predisposition. Diagnosing gout involves a comprehensive examination, including a detailed medical history, assessment of symptoms, and often the identification of characteristic crystal deposits through joint fluid analysis. The diagnostic process aims to differentiate gout from other joint disorders, ensuring accurate and timely intervention. Recognizing the causative factors and employing precise diagnostic measures are pivotal steps in comprehending and effectively managing gout, a condition that can significantly impact an individual's quality of life. If you have pain in your big toe, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat gout. 

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Gerald Erskine, DPM from Seneca Family Footcare. 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 Ronceverte, WV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot stress fractures are tiny cracks in the bones resulting from repetitive force or overuse. These fractures, often seen in the metatarsal bones of the foot, can be subtle but carry the potential for significant discomfort and impairment if not addressed promptly. Risk factors contributing to the development of foot stress fractures are multifaceted. High-impact activities, such as running or jumping, increase the repetitive stress on the bones, making athletes more susceptible. Inadequate footwear or sudden increases in activity levels can also elevate the risk. Conditions like osteoporosis, which weakens bone density, may exacerbate the susceptibility to stress fractures. Nutritional deficiencies, particularly in calcium and vitamin D, compromise bone strength and resilience. Understanding both the definition and the spectrum of risk factors associated with foot stress fractures enables individuals to make informed choices about their physical activities, footwear, and overall bone health. If you have endured a stress fracture, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Gerald Erskine, DPM from Seneca Family Footcare. 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:

• Runners                                  
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

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 our office located in Ronceverte, WV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis, a prevalent foot ailment, reveals itself as a condition marked by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a band of tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes. Characterized by stabbing pain, particularly during the initial steps after awakening or prolonged periods of inactivity, plantar fasciitis often affects the heel and sole. The condition typically results from overuse, where repetitive stress on the plantar fascia leads to microtears and inflammation. While commonly associated with athletes, plantar fasciitis can affect individuals from various walks of life, particularly those with jobs that require prolonged standing. Having tight calf muscles or flat feet and wearing inadequate footwear may contribute to increased vulnerability. Recognizing plantar fasciitis's early signs, such as localized pain and stiffness, enables timely intervention. If you have heel pain, it may be indicative of plantar fasciitis. If this applies to you, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat this condition.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Gerald Erskine, DPM  from Seneca Family Footcare. 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?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

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 our office located in Ronceverte, WV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Bunions are painful bumps at the base of the big toe, primarily the result of hallux valgus, where the big toe deviates outward and tilts toward the second toe. Contributing factors for the formation of bunions include foot pronation, wearing tight shoes, injuries, osteoarthritis, and heredity. Bunions can cause pain, especially in narrow shoes, and may enlarge over time. Painful swelling caused by inflamed bursa under the toe often accompanies bunions and limits joint motion. Diagnosing bunions relies on symptoms and physical exams, such as X-rays, while joint fluid analysis rules out infectious arthritis or gout. Treatment options depend on the severity of the bunion. A podiatrist can guide you toward non-invasive treatment solutions, including orthotics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication, and corticosteroid injections to manage pain and inflammation. In severe cases, or when more conservative measures fail, surgical bunionectomy becomes an option. This procedure corrects joint alignment and removes the bunion. To determine the best treatment plan for your specific needs and taking into account the severity of your bunion, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Gerald Erskine, DPM of Seneca Family Footcare. 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 Ronceverte, WV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

People can drop a heavy object on their foot, and may wonder if it is a temporary pain or something more serious like a broken toe. Broken toes are often the result of such accidents as having a heavy object drop on the foot, jamming it into a piece of furniture, or from missing a step. They can also occur due to an aggravated stress fracture, abnormal foot structure, or conditions such as osteoporosis. When a toe breaks, it causes severe pain, swelling, and bruising. Walking becomes difficult, but it is important to note that the ability to walk on a broken toe does not rule out a fracture. Diagnosis typically involves a visual examination and may require X-rays to be taken. Treatment options range from rest and elevation for minor fractures to splinting or buddy taping for more severe cases. In rare instances, surgery may be necessary to ensure proper healing. Complications such as toenail trauma, chronic pain, stiffness, and deformity can arise if a broken toe is not treated correctly. If you suspect you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a timely and effective recovery.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Gerald Erskine, DPM from Seneca Family Footcare. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

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