Gout is a painful form of joint inflammation caused by uric acid crystals. Uric acid forms when the body breaks down substances called purines found in many foods. The kidneys normally remove this waste from the blood. When levels become too high, sharp crystals can collect in and around a joint. Gout frequently affects the big-toe joint, although it can develop in the ankle or other foot joints. An attack can begin suddenly. Symptoms include severe pain, swelling, and redness. The joint can also feel warm and extremely tender. Repeated attacks can damage the joint and limit movement.

Several factors can raise the chance of developing gout. Kidney disease can make it harder to remove uric acid. Family history and excess body weight can also increase risk. Men are affected more frequently, while the risk for women rises after menopause. Foods high in purines and excessive alcohol intake can contribute to attacks. Certain health conditions and medications can raise uric acid levels. However, having risk factors does not mean a person will develop gout. Because an infected joint can cause similar symptoms, patients should seek prompt medical care instead of assuming gout is the cause.

A podiatrist can examine the painful area and review when symptoms began. The evaluation includes questions about earlier attacks, health conditions, and medications. Imaging tests can reveal joint damage or rule out another cause. Fluid from the joint can sometimes be checked for crystals or infection. After confirming the diagnosis, the podiatrist can create a plan to ease inflammation and protect the joint. The podiatrist can also discuss risk factors and coordinate care with other doctors. Shoes that reduce pressure on the sore area can be recommended. Continued medical care is important because untreated gout can cause lasting joint damage. If you have symptoms of gout in a toe, foot, or ankle, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this painful condition.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Lawrence Fallat, DPM from Michigan. 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 offices located in Canton and Taylor, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Pronation describes the inward roll of the foot after the heel touches the ground. This movement helps the foot absorb shock and adjust to the surface while walking or running. A small amount of pronation is a normal part of a step. Overpronation occurs when the foot rolls too far inward, which can cause the arch to flatten. It can affect how weight moves through the foot. People with flat feet are more likely to overpronate.

Signs of overpronation can appear in the feet, shoes, or legs. The arch may drop inward when standing, and the inner edges of the shoes may wear down faster. Some patients develop heel pain, arch discomfort, or repeated ankle problems. Extra strain can also reach the knees, hips, and lower back. These symptoms do not always prove that overpronation is the cause. Other foot problems can produce similar pain. A podiatrist can study the position of the feet and watch how they move. This gait evaluation, which is an assessment of walking patterns, helps identify abnormal motion and areas of excess pressure.

Treatment depends on the patient's foot structure, symptoms, and activity level. A podiatrist can recommend shoes with the right amount of support and cushioning. Custom orthotics can also be prescribed to guide foot motion and spread pressure more evenly. These devices are made to match the patient's feet and specific walking pattern. The podiatrist can also evaluate related problems, like plantar fasciitis, tendon strain, or ankle instability. Imaging tests can help rule out bone or joint damage when the examination raises concern. Regular follow-up visits allow the podiatrist to check whether treatment is improving comfort and movement. Surgery is rarely considered and is generally reserved for severe structural problems that do not improve with other care. If you have foot pain after exercise, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Lawrence Fallat, DPM from Michigan. 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 offices located in Canton and Taylor, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A sprained ankle is a common injury in children, especially those who participate in sports and other physical activities. An ankle sprain happens when the strong bands of tissue that support the joint are stretched or torn. This often occurs when the foot twists or rolls unexpectedly. Children may sprain an ankle while running, jumping, or changing direction quickly. Common symptoms include pain, swelling, and bruising around the ankle. A child may also have trouble walking or putting weight on the injured foot. Because fractures can cause similar symptoms, a professional evaluation may be needed to identify the injury correctly.

Ankle sprains can range from mild stretching of the supporting tissues to more serious tears. The amount of pain does not always show how severe the injury is. Children also have areas of developing bone called growth plates, which can be injured and sometimes mistaken for a sprain. For this reason, ongoing pain or difficulty bearing weight should be carefully evaluated. A significant ankle injury may also affect joint stability and movement. Returning to normal activity before the ankle has properly healed may increase the chance of another injury. An accurate diagnosis can help guide treatment and support a safe recovery.

A podiatrist can examine a child’s sprained ankle and determine whether the injury involves the supporting tissues, bones, or growth plate. The evaluation may include checking swelling, tenderness, and ankle stability. Imaging may be recommended when a fracture or growth-plate injury is suspected. Podiatric treatment depends on the severity of the injury and can focus on protecting the ankle, restoring movement, and supporting proper healing. Follow-up care can also help determine when returning to sports or other activities is appropriate. If your child has persistent ankle pain, swelling, or difficulty walking after an injury, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Lawrence Fallat, DPM of Michigan. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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

A bunion forms when the big toe begins to angle toward the other toes, and the long bone behind the joint shifts outward. This change creates a noticeable bump along the inside of the foot. Bunions can run in families, and extra movement within the foot joints can contribute to their development. Wearing narrow or pointed shoes and high heels can make bunions progress more quickly. Some bunions cause little discomfort, while others become painful enough to limit walking and other activities. The size of the bump does not always match the amount of pain a patient feels.

Bunion pain can become stronger when shoes press or rub against the enlarged joint. A podiatrist can examine the foot and assess the position of the big toe to diagnose the problem. Imaging can also help rule out other causes of pain or provide details when surgery is being considered. Treatment depends on the patient’s symptoms and how much the bunion affects movement. Wearing wide-fitting shoes can reduce pressure against the bump. A podiatrist can also recommend cushioning pads or specialized insoles to reduce discomfort and improve support while walking.

Non-surgical care can reduce bunion pain, but it cannot permanently correct the changed shape of the joint. A podiatrist can study the way a patient stands and walks to determine whether an orthotic, which is a specialized shoe insert, could improve comfort. For severe pain, other treatments can be considered based on the patient’s needs. Surgery is the only treatment that can correct the bunion’s shape and can be considered when pain limits activity despite appropriate care. A podiatrist can explain the available choices and help patients understand which approach fits their symptoms. If you have developed a bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Lawrence Fallat, DPM of Michigan. 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?

Podiatrists 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 provider.

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 offices located in Canton and Taylor, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.