Gout, a form of arthritis, is characterized by the accumulation of urate crystals in joints, leading to inflammation and intense pain. The onset of gout is marked by sudden and severe joint pain, commonly affecting the big toe. As the condition progresses, these painful episodes may recur, spreading to other joints such as ankles, knees, and wrists. Gout evolves through distinct stages. In the asymptomatic hyperuricemia stage, elevated uric acid levels exist without noticeable symptoms. The acute gouty arthritis stage follows, presenting with sudden and excruciating joint pain. Without proper management, the inter-critical gout stage ensues, marked by symptom-free intervals between painful episodes. In advanced cases, chronic tophaceous gout manifests, characterized by the formation of tophi, which are visible lumps of urate crystals that form in joints and surrounding tissues. Understanding the stages of gout is essential for effective management, emphasizing the importance of lifestyle changes and medical interventions to alleviate symptoms and prevent long-term joint damage. If you are afflicted with gout, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you with pain management strategies.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Charles Passet, DPM from Forest Hills. 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 office located in Forest Hills, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Bunions are bony protrusions that form at the base of the big toe due to prolonged stress on the metatarsophalangeal joint. Detecting them is relatively straightforward through visual inspection, often supplemented by X-rays to assess their severity. For runners, bunions can pose significant challenges, exacerbated by poorly fitting running shoes. Many running shoes, characterized by tapered toe boxes and raised heels, can contribute to bunion development over time. Treatment options range from the simple act of changing shoes and employing pain management techniques, such as medication, to using toe spacers and performing bunion massages. If conservative approaches fall short, surgical intervention may be an option, although it is not always a permanent fix. If you are a runner and have a bunion that is causing you pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss pain management techniques that might help you.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Charles Passet, DPM of Forest Hills. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Forest Hills, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Flat feet, or fallen arches, are a common condition where the arches of the feet collapse, causing the entire sole to touch the ground. Recognizing the symptoms of flat feet is essential for understanding and addressing this condition. One prevalent sign is pain or discomfort along the inner side of the ankle and arch. Individuals with flat feet may also experience swelling along the inside of the ankle. The lack of a visible arch when standing or walking is a visual indicator of flat feet. Overpronation, where the foot rolls inward excessively, can contribute to this condition and lead to related issues, including shin splints or knee pain. Fatigue and aching in the feet and legs can occur, especially after prolonged standing. If you have flat feet, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can provide you with effective relief options.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Charles Passet, DPM from Forest Hills. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Forest Hills, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Cracked heels, also known as heel fissures, are a common foot ailment that can be both unsightly and uncomfortable. Several factors contribute to their development. One primary cause is dry skin. The skin on the soles of your feet is naturally thicker, and when it lacks moisture, it becomes less flexible and more prone to cracking. Another factor is inadequate hydration. Dehydration can affect your body's ability to maintain skin elasticity, making it easier for your heels to crack. Additionally, prolonged standing, especially on hard surfaces, can also contribute to this problem, as it puts extra pressure on the heel area and may lead to cracks. Footwear choices play a significant role. Wearing open-back or poorly fitting shoes can increase friction and pressure on the heel, exacerbating the issue. Various medical conditions, such as diabetes or thyroid disorders, can also affect skin health and potentially lead to cracked heels. People may have lifestyle factors such as excessive bathing or exposure to harsh, dry climates which can contribute to developing cracked heels. If you have cracked heels, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can offer you effective treatment options, which may include prescribed medication.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Charles Passet, DPM from Forest Hills. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Forest Hills, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Stress fractures, those tiny cracks in the bones of the feet, are a common concern for athletes, dancers, and anyone who spends a significant amount of time on their feet. These fractures are usually a result of repetitive stress and overuse, rather than sudden trauma. One primary cause of stress fractures is overexertion, often seen in athletes who increase their training intensity too quickly. Wearing Improper footwear or a sudden change in physical activity can also put undue stress on the bones. Inadequate nutrition and underlying conditions such as osteoporosis may weaken bones, making them more susceptible to fractures. Symptoms of a stress fracture typically include localized pain, swelling, and tenderness in the affected area. The pain usually worsens with activity and eases with rest. Left untreated, stress fractures can progress to chronic pain and complications, so early intervention is essential. Understanding the causes and recognizing these symptoms allows for prompt diagnosis and proper care, reducing the risk of more severe injuries and ensuring a quicker return to an active, pain-free lifestyle. If you have developed a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can effectively treat this condition.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Charles Passet, DPM from Forest Hills. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Forest Hills, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.