Gout is a type of arthritis that can cause pain and discomfort. In severe cases, the pain can be so debilitating that some patients may have to crawl up the steps to avoid putting weight on the affected foot. An episode of gout is referred to as a flare-up or an attack, which can happen suddenly. A gout attack can be triggered by having excess uric acid in the blood, or it may happen for genetic reasons. Crystals can form in the joints of the big toe, and this may cause the toe to become red and swollen. Additionally, foods that are eaten with high levels of purines may contribute significantly to getting gout, and it is suggested that consuming these types of foods is greatly reduced. Red meat, shellfish, and drinks that are made with large amounts of sugar fall into this category. People who experience several bouts with gout may notice that there is joint stiffness, and the big toe may look deformed. If you have gout attacks, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you manage and prevent future gout episodes.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Spartan Podiatry. 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 Battle Creek and Marshall, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Pregnant women commonly suffer from swollen feet during their last trimester, and it can be quite uncomfortable. It happens as a result of the growing fetus, in addition to blood that has thickened with nutrients that support the baby. The body tends to hold more fluid than usual during pregnancy, and that fluid may travel to the feet by the end of the day. Relief can come from frequently elevating the feet and reducing salt intake from the foods that are eaten. It is beneficial to spend time in cooler temperatures if the pregnancy is in the warmer months, and this may help to reduce swelling in the feet. Additionally, drinking plenty of water daily can have a positive effect on the body, and the feet will feel better when comfortable shoes are worn. If you would like more information about how to help your feet while you are pregnant, please consult with a podiatrist who can provide you with the information you are seeking. 

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with one of our podiatrists from Spartan Podiatry. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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

Many women enjoy high heels despite the pain that can come from frequently wearing them. There may be many pairs of high heels in their closets, but the pain may cause unwanted foot conditions. Blisters are a common ailment to get while wearing high heels, and they can be caused by a narrow space in the toe area. The toes may rub together, and a painful blister may form. When patients choose to wear high heels, it is suggested that they fit properly, as this can help to avoid sliding. This is the term that is used when the shoes are too big, and the toes grip the front of the shoe, causing toe strain. This can lead to an uneven distribution of weight, and the ball of the foot may be negatively affected. Research has shown that the ankle, joints, and surrounding tendons may become strained and may lead to incurring a stress fracture or tendonitis. If you would like more information about the dangers to the feet of wearing high heels, please consult with a podiatrist.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Spartan Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

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

There are several foot conditions that may require surgery for permanent relief. Hammertoe is an ailment that affects the toes causing the joints of the second and third toes to bend upward, which pushes the toes downward. This condition is a deformity and surgery may be needed for the toes to be permanently straightened. Patients who have conditions like rheumatoid arthritis may opt for a different type of surgery. A tendon transfer can be successful when the tendon is attached to the bone and across the affected joint. This can pull the toes into a straighter position and may improve the overall appearance of the foot. A type of surgery known as a fusion may improve hammertoe by removing parts of the joints so the bones can grow together. This is often effective in reducing existing pain. Amputation can be a last resort and may be done when no other type of treatment is effective. If you have hammertoe and are interested in learning about the different types of surgery to treat this condition, please consult with a podiatrist.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Spartan Podiatry. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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