Items filtered by date: April 2023

Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis caused by the formation of uric acid crystals that settle in joints. High blood urate levels, or hyperuricemia, lead to crystal formation, and this can produce severe pain, stiffness, and swelling, often along the base of the big toe. One often has attacks of gout that can last from 12 hours to two weeks. If not tended to, gout can cause damage to joints, tendons, and other soft tissue that is irreversible. Hyperuricemia can also lead to kidney stones. Many people who suffer from gout have lifestyles, such as being overweight or eating or drinking items with high levels of purines or excess sugar or alcohol, that make them more vulnerable to gout. Those with some diseases, like anemia, psoriasis, and renal disease can also be more apt to get gout. Similarly, people taking certain medications can be more likely to get gout. Men are twice as likely to get gout than women. The chance of getting this ailment increases with age. If you have gout and you are experiencing pain in your big toe, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for an examination, treatment, and prevention techniques.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Steven Wells, DPM from Favor Foot Ankle Leg & Wound Center. 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 Edison, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis caused by the formation of uric acid crystals that settle in joints. High blood urate levels, or hyperuricemia, lead to crystal formation, and this can produce severe pain, stiffness, and swelling, often along the base of the big toe. One often has attacks of gout that can last from 12 hours to two weeks. If not tended to, gout can cause damage to joints, tendons, and other soft tissue that is irreversible. Hyperuricemia can also lead to kidney stones. Many people who suffer from gout have lifestyles, such as being overweight or eating or drinking items with high levels of purines or excess sugar or alcohol, that make them more vulnerable to gout. Those with some diseases, like anemia, psoriasis, and renal disease can also be more apt to get gout. Similarly, people taking certain medications can be more likely to get gout. Men are twice as likely to get gout than women. The chance of getting this ailment increases with age. If you have gout and you are experiencing pain in your big toe, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for an examination, treatment, and prevention techniques.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our doctors from Favor Foot Ankle Leg & Wound Center. Our doctors 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 offices located in South Amboy and Edison, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

There are many reasons why people buy shoes. They may be needed to perform in high-intensity activities or for casual everyday walking. Whatever the reason, wearing shoes that fit correctly and adequately support the feet is beneficial. Research has shown that approximately two-thirds of people worldwide may have poor foot health from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. It is helpful to have an accurate foot measurement before purchasing shoes. This can be done by measuring the feet at the end of the day when they are at their largest and while wearing socks. Stand on a piece of paper taped to the floor and begin by tracing the outline of the foot, which may be easier if done by another person. After measuring the length and width, the correct shoe size can be found using a conversion chart. Alternatively, many shoe stores have a Brannock device, which is generally successful in determining the correct shoe size. If you have additional questions about buying shoes that fit correctly, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can help you find the knowledge you seek.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of Steven Wells, DPM from Favor Foot Ankle Leg & Wound Center. Our doctor will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

• When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
• Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
• Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
• Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
• If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

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

There are many reasons why people buy shoes. They may be needed to perform in high-intensity activities or for casual everyday walking. Whatever the reason, wearing shoes that fit correctly and adequately support the feet is beneficial. Research has shown that approximately two-thirds of people worldwide may have poor foot health from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. It is helpful to have an accurate foot measurement before purchasing shoes. This can be done by measuring the feet at the end of the day when they are at their largest and while wearing socks. Stand on a piece of paper taped to the floor and begin by tracing the outline of the foot, which may be easier if done by another person. After measuring the length and width, the correct shoe size can be found using a conversion chart. Alternatively, many shoe stores have a Brannock device, which is generally successful in determining the correct shoe size. If you have additional questions about buying shoes that fit correctly, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can help you find the knowledge you seek.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of one of our doctors from Favor Foot Ankle Leg & Wound Center. Our doctors will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

• When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
• Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
• Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
• Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
• If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in South Amboy and Edison, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The gait, which is the way we walk, starts to develop as soon as a child stands up. As they age children go through different stages of gait development, and it is a good idea for parents to monitor these patterns and take note of abnormalities. Three recognizable gait disorders in children are in-toeing, out-toeing, and toe-walking. While in-toeing, also termed pigeon toe, is typical in many children under the age of 3, it also can be caused by a condition where the front of the foot curves inward instead of remaining straight. This can result in a child falling more often than normal. Out-toeing refers to walking with the toes pointed outward instead of straight ahead. It can be the result of flat feet, lower leg misalignment, or hip joint abnormalities. Toe walking is just what it sounds like the child walks on its toes. This can produce tight or shortened calf muscles and may affect balance and cause muscle soreness. If your child displays these or other gait abnormalities, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can assess the situation and provide guidance on how to handle it.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Steven Wells, DPM of Favor Foot Ankle Leg & Wound Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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

The gait, which is the way we walk, starts to develop as soon as a child stands up. As they age children go through different stages of gait development, and it is a good idea for parents to monitor these patterns and take note of abnormalities. Three recognizable gait disorders in children are in-toeing, out-toeing, and toe-walking. While in-toeing, also termed pigeon toe, is typical in many children under the age of 3, it also can be caused by a condition where the front of the foot curves inward instead of remaining straight. This can result in a child falling more often than normal. Out-toeing refers to walking with the toes pointed outward instead of straight ahead. It can be the result of flat feet, lower leg misalignment, or hip joint abnormalities. Toe walking is just what it sounds like the child walks on its toes. This can produce tight or shortened calf muscles and may affect balance and cause muscle soreness. If your child displays these or other gait abnormalities, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can assess the situation and provide guidance on how to handle it.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact one of our doctors of Favor Foot Ankle Leg & Wound Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in South Amboy and Edison, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Arthritis is an inflammatory disease that attacks the joints and can cause pain, stiffness, swelling, and bone deformities. There is no known cure for arthritis, but there are many ways of treating the symptoms that allow patients to lead active lives. Because the feet contain 33 joints each, arthritis can negatively impact your daily life, even simply the ability to walk. The main types of arthritis that cause foot problems are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, and gout. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease that erodes the cartilage between the bones of the joint. This causes very painful inflammation and is most common among people 50 and older. It is known as wear and tear disease. Rheumatoid arthritis is a crippling disease where the immune system attacks the body’s cartilage, resulting in deformities. Post-traumatic arthritis can develop after sustaining an injury to the foot or ankle. Gout, which frequently attacks the big toe, is caused by having abnormal amounts of uric acid in the system. To find out more about how arthritis may be causing your foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Steven Wells, DPM from Favor Foot Ankle Leg & Wound Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

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

Arthritis is an inflammatory disease that attacks the joints and can cause pain, stiffness, swelling, and bone deformities. There is no known cure for arthritis, but there are many ways of treating the symptoms that allow patients to lead active lives. Because the feet contain 33 joints each, arthritis can negatively impact your daily life, even simply the ability to walk. The main types of arthritis that cause foot problems are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, and gout. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease that erodes the cartilage between the bones of the joint. This causes very painful inflammation and is most common among people 50 and older. It is known as wear and tear disease. Rheumatoid arthritis is a crippling disease where the immune system attacks the body’s cartilage, resulting in deformities. Post-traumatic arthritis can develop after sustaining an injury to the foot or ankle. Gout, which frequently attacks the big toe, is caused by having abnormal amounts of uric acid in the system. To find out more about how arthritis may be causing your foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our doctors from Favor Foot Ankle Leg & Wound Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in South Amboy and Edison, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.