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October 2022

Tuesday, 25 October 2022 00:00

Simple Methods May Possibly Prevent Gout

The inflammation and pain of the foot condition that is referred to as gout can be debilitating. It is a condition that affects the joints in the big toe and is caused by an abundance of uric acid in the blood. When there is excess uric acid, it can lodge in the big toe in the form of crystals and can be quite uncomfortable. There are specific types of foods that have high levels of purines, which can lead to having large amounts of uric acid in the bloodstream. These types of foods include red meat, shellfish, and sugary drinks. A gout flare-up may gradually improve within a few weeks, and methods can be implemented that may help to prevent future attacks from occurring. These consist of consuming a healthy diet, drinking plenty of water daily, and engaging in a gentle exercise program. Ideally, living a healthy lifestyle may significantly contribute to possibly avoiding gout attacks. If you suffer from this painful foot condition, it is strongly urged that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can guide you toward correct relief and prevention options. 

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Barry P. Weinstein, DPM from Bellaire Podiatry. 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 one of our offices located in Bellaire and Houston, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Published in Blog
Tuesday, 18 October 2022 00:00

Benefits of Everyday Foot Care

The feet are complex structures and research has shown the average person walks approximately 115,000 miles during their lifetime. It is important to practice everyday foot care which can help prevent unwanted foot conditions. One of the best things patients can do for their feet is to wear shoes that fit properly. People who have diabetes often need to pay extra attention to their feet as this may help to stop foot ulcers from developing. A good way to start each day is by washing and drying the feet thoroughly, followed by applying a good moisturizer. It is suggested that the toenails be cut weekly and trimmed straight across instead of curved. Proper everyday foot care may reduce the chances of obtaining unpleasant foot conditions. If you would like additional information about the benefits of proper foot care, please confer with a podiatrist who is an expert on the feet and ankles. 

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Barry P. Weinstein, DPM from Bellaire Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

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

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Published in Blog
Tuesday, 11 October 2022 00:00

Signs of Cracked Heels

One of the many unsightly and unattractive conditions of the feet is known as cracked heels. Also known as heel fissures or split heel, this condition occurs when the skin on the heel becomes exceedingly dry. There are several signs of cracked heels that you can be on the lookout for. First, the most obvious sign of cracked heels is a developing callus on the heel that can be either a shade of yellow or brown. If the condition is relatively new, you might notice small cracks in the hardened skin callus. However, if this condition is older and has not been treated for a long period of time, then there may be deeper cracks in the callus. These deeper cracks might even bleed in severe cases, inviting infection. If you notice any of these signs, or you believe that you might have cracked heels, do not hesitate to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist today.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Barry P. Weinstein, DPM from Bellaire Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bellaire and Houston, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Published in Blog
Saturday, 08 October 2022 00:00

Are Bunions Affecting Your Everyday Life?

Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.

Published in Blog
Tuesday, 04 October 2022 00:00

Foot Care Is Essential for Diabetic Patients

Practicing good foot care is essential for most people, and it is especially imperative for diabetic patients. Neuropathy can affect people who are diabetic. This is a condition that causes the inability to feel existing cuts, bruises, and scrapes on the feet. If these cuts do not get immediate medical attention, infection may occur, which may lead to gangrene, and possible amputation. Foot care can begin with washing and drying the feet thoroughly, followed by applying a gentle moisturizer. It is beneficial to have the toenails trimmed weekly, in addition to refraining from walking barefoot. Many diabetic patients appreciate the benefits of engaging in a gentle exercise regime, which may help to improve circulation. The importance of wearing shoes that are comfortable and fit correctly cannot be impressed upon enough to restore and maintain proper foot health. If you have diabetes, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can treat and help you to manage this condition.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Barry P. Weinstein, DPM from Bellaire Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

  • Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
  • Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
  • Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Read more about Diabetic Foot Care
Published in Blog
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