Items filtered by date: June 2024

Gout is a form of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. This buildup occurs when the body produces too much uric acid or cannot effectively eliminate it. Risk factors for developing gout include a diet high in red meat and seafood, excessive alcohol consumption, and obesity. Certain medical conditions such as hypertension and diabetes also increase the likelihood of developing gout. Symptoms of gout often appear suddenly and include intense joint pain, redness, and swelling, typically in the big toe. The affected joint may feel warm and extremely tender to the touch. Gout attacks can be recurrent, leading to chronic pain and joint damage if left untreated. The pain from gout can be debilitating. If you have developed this condition, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you relief and prevention methods.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Nrup Tolat, DPM from Atlanta Total Foot & Ankle Care. 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 Woodstock and Atlanta, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ankle bursitis occurs when the bursae sacs in the ankle become inflamed, causing significant discomfort and mobility issues. Bursae are small, fluid-filled sacs that act as cushions between bones, tendons, and muscles, reducing friction and facilitating smooth joint movement. These sacs can become irritated or inflamed, typically due to overuse, trauma, infection, or medical conditions like gout or rheumatoid arthritis. Common symptoms of ankle bursitis include pain and tenderness in the ankle, swelling, stiffness, warmth, or redness around the affected area. Aching or throbbing pain also can occur, especially when pressure is applied. Overuse from activities like running or dancing, trauma from injuries, or wearing poorly fitting shoes are frequent causes. Proper diagnosis may include imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs to rule out other conditions. In some cases, fluid from the bursae might be tested for infections. If you're experiencing symptoms of ankle bursitis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Nrup Tolat, DPM from Atlanta Total Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

Blistering skin lesions on the feet of the elderly can be a common and concerning issue. These lesions, often filled with fluid, can result from various factors, including friction, pressure, and decreased skin integrity associated with aging. The skin of elderly individuals tends to become thinner, drier, and more fragile over time, making it more susceptible to damage and blister formation. Moreover, age-related conditions such as diabetes and reduced mobility add to the risk of blistering skin lesions. Diabetic neuropathy can lead to decreased sensation in the feet, making it harder for individuals to detect and address issues like friction and pressure points, which can eventually lead to blisters. If left untreated, blistering skin lesions can increase the risk of infection and other complications, particularly in elderly individuals with compromised immune systems. If you are elderly and experiencing such blisters, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact Nrup Tolat, DPM of Atlanta Total Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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

Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, is a prevalent vascular condition characterized by narrowed arteries that limits blood flow to the extremities (including the feet). The restricted blood flow deprives the feet of oxygen and vital nutrients, leading to a range of symptoms. Individuals with PAD may experience intermittent claudication, a condition marked by pain or cramping in the legs or feet during physical activity but subsides with rest. Other symptoms can include numbness, tingling, or weakness in the feet, particularly while at rest or during nighttime. As PAD progresses, individuals may develop non-healing wounds or ulcers on the feet, which pose a risk of infection and tissue damage. Recognizing the symptoms of PAD and seeking timely medical intervention is essential in managing the condition and preserving foot health. Regular exercise, smoking cessation, and medication management are among the strategies employed to lessen PAD's effects and improve overall vascular health. If you have tingling or numbness in your feet, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can diagnose and help you to manage PAD.

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with Nrup Tolat, DPM from Atlanta Total Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

• Claudication (leg pain from walking)
• Numbness in legs
• Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
• Paleness of the skin
• Erectile dysfunction
• Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
• Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

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