Gout is a form of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, often affecting the feet, particularly the big toe. This condition arises when the body produces too much uric acid or is unable to eliminate it effectively. As a result, sharp crystals form and cause intense pain, swelling, and redness. The pain from gout attacks can be sudden and severe, often waking individuals up at night. Certain foods are known to trigger gout flare-ups, particularly those high in purines, such as red meat, organ meats, shellfish, and alcohol, especially beer. These foods increase uric acid levels in the body, contributing to the formation of crystals in the joints. Gout can severely impact mobility, making it difficult to walk or move the affected joint. Managing uric acid levels through a balanced diet, medications, and lifestyle changes can help control symptoms and reduce the frequency of attacks. If you have had one or more gout attacks, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you to manage this debilitating condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Ankle N Foot. our doctors 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 offices located in Chicago, Elmhurst, Bartlett, IL and Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Hyperhidrosis of the feet, or plantar hyperhidrosis, is a condition characterized by excessive sweating, often unrelated to temperature or activity. This persistent moisture can lead to discomfort, foot odor, and an increased risk of fungal infections, such as athlete's foot. It may also cause skin softening, making the feet prone to blisters and sores. Living with hyperhidrosis can significantly impact the quality of life. People may feel self-conscious about the condition, avoiding activities like removing shoes in public or wearing open-toed footwear. The constant dampness can also compromise shoe longevity and lead to slipping or reduced stability during physical activities. Treatments include antiperspirants, oral medications, and more innovative techniques to reduce sweat production. If hyperhidrosis is affecting your daily life, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist to explore effective solutions and regain confidence.

If you are suffering from hyperhidrosis contact one of our podiatrists of Ankle N Foot. our doctors can provide the care you need to attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

Hyperhidrosis of the Feet

Hyperhidrosis is a rare disorder that can cause people to have excessive sweating of their feet. This can usually occur all on its own without rigorous activity involved. People who suffer from hyperhidrosis may also experience sweaty palms.

Although it is said that sweating is a healthy process meant to cool down the body temperature and to maintain a proper internal temperature, hyperhidrosis may prove to be a huge hindrance on a person’s everyday life.

Plantar hyperhidrosis is considered to be the main form of hyperhidrosis. Secondary hyperhidrosis can refer to sweating that occurs in areas other than the feet or hands and armpits. Often this may be a sign of it being related to another medical condition such as menopause, hyperthyroidism and even Parkinson’s disease.

In order to alleviate this condition, it is important to see your doctor so that they may prescribe the necessary medications so that you can begin to live a normal life again. If this is left untreated, it is said that it will persist throughout an individual’s life.

A last resort approach would be surgery, but it is best to speak with your doctor to find out what may be the best treatment for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Chicago, Elmhurst, Bartlett, IL and Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain, often resulting from inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. This condition is typically aggravated by excessive pressure or overuse, leading to discomfort, particularly in the heel area. Wearing the right type of shoes is essential for managing and relieving plantar fasciitis. Shoes with good arch support help distribute pressure evenly across the foot, reducing strain on the plantar fascia. Cushioned soles provide shock absorption, which is especially beneficial for those who spend long hours standing or walking. Avoiding flat shoes or high heels is also important, as they do not offer adequate support. Instead, look for shoes with a low, supportive heel and a wide toe box that allows the toes to move freely. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat this condition, in addition to guiding you toward optimum shoes to buy for relief.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists from Ankle N Foot. our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Chicago, Elmhurst, Bartlett, IL and Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Corns are thickened areas of skin that develop on the feet due to repeated friction or pressure. They typically form on the toes or the soles of the feet and can cause discomfort or pain, especially when standing or walking. Symptoms include a small, hard, raised bump that may appear yellowish or gray, with surrounding redness and inflammation. The primary cause of corns is wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes that put pressure on specific areas of the foot. Abnormal gait or foot deformities, such as hammertoes, can also contribute to corn formation. Treatment options for corns often include soaking the feet to soften the skin, and wearing properly fitting shoes with adequate cushioning. In severe cases, a podiatrist may recommend professional corn removal, along with custom orthotics to prevent recurrence. If you have developed one or more corns on your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of Ankle N Foot. our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:

• Well-fitting socks
• Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
• Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with our doctors to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Chicago, Elmhurst, Bartlett, IL and Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.