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Gout and pseudogout are forms of inflammatory arthritis caused by crystal buildup in the joints, leading to pain and swelling. Gout develops from uric acid crystals, often affecting the big toe and causing sudden, intense pain, redness, and warmth. Pseudogout is caused by calcium pyrophosphate crystals and more commonly affects larger joints, such as the ankle or knee, with symptoms that include stiffness, swelling, and discomfort. While both conditions share similar signs, they differ in the type of crystals and underlying causes. Risk factors include aging, joint damage, dehydration, and certain medical conditions. A podiatrist can help by identifying the condition, managing symptoms, and recommending treatment. If you have pain or swelling in your big toe joint or surrounding areas, it is suggested that you seek podiatric care to find relief and prevent future flare-ups.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Abeer M. Foteh, DPM from Greater Houston Foot Centers. 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 Baytown, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Toenail fungus affects the nail and the skin beneath it. It begins when fungi enter through small cracks and slowly spread under the nail surface, leading to infection. Symptoms often include thickened, brittle, and yellow discolored nails that may become difficult to trim. Risk factors include older age, exposure to someone with the infection, and warm, moist environments that support fungal growth. Without treatment, the condition can worsen and affect multiple nails. Early recognition and care are important to maintain healthy, strong nails and prevent further spread. If you have symptoms of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition, which may include prescribed medication.

For more information about treatment, contact Abeer M. Foteh, DPM of Greater Houston Foot Centers. 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 Baytown, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

 Plantar fasciitis is a common foot-related condition defined as inflammation of the plantar fascia, the thick band of connective tissue that supports the arch and connects the heel to the toes. This condition often develops when the tissue becomes overstressed or irritated during daily activities. Symptoms frequently include sharp heel pain, arch discomfort, stiffness after periods of rest, and tenderness along the bottom of the foot. Causes may involve repetitive strain, prolonged standing, wearing poorly supported footwear, or changes in physical activity. Risk factors can include flat feet, high arches, excess body weight, and tight calf muscles. A podiatrist can evaluate foot mechanics, provide supportive treatment, and recommend orthotic support. If you have heel pain that is interfering with daily activities, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can guide you toward effective relief and treatment solutions.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Abeer M. Foteh, DPM  from Greater Houston Foot Centers. 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 Baytown, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

As people age, natural changes in muscle strength, joint flexibility, and balance can affect how they walk. Walking, also called gait, should be smooth, even, and steady. After about age 70, walking speed often slows as steps become shorter, often the result of weaker calf muscles that help move the body forward. Older adults may also keep both feet on the ground a little longer with each step to feel more stable. While some changes in gait are expected, others are not. Uneven steps, shuffling, dragging the toes, leaning forward, or trouble starting to walk may signal problems. These may involve joints, nerves, or certain areas of the brain that control movement and coordination. Arthritis, poor sensation in the feet, and balance disorders can all affect gait. A podiatrist can carefully assess how you stand and walk to help to identify abnormal patterns. Solutions include supportive footwear, custom orthotics, or other treatment to improve stability and comfort. If you experience problems walking normally, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Abeer M. Foteh, DPM from Greater Houston Foot Centers. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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