Gout is a type of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to severe pain and inflammation. This occurs when the body produces too much uric acid or struggles to eliminate it efficiently. Mushrooms are considered harmful for individuals with gout because they contain purines, which break down into uric acid. High purine intake can lead to elevated uric acid levels, triggering painful gout flare-ups. The big toe is often the most affected joint, as uric acid crystals tend to accumulate in cooler areas of the body. This can cause intense swelling, redness, and difficulty walking. Avoiding purine-rich foods, such as mushrooms, can help prevent these painful episodes and support better management of gout symptoms for improved joint health. If you have gout, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this painful condition, which may include educating you on dietary restrictions.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Jim Maxka, DPM from South Penn Foot & Ankle Associates. 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 Hanover, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

If you wake up and feel a sharp pain in your heel when you take your first steps, you are not alone. This is one of the telltale signs of plantar fasciitis, a common cause of heel pain. But why does it hurt most in the morning? While you sleep, your foot relaxes and the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue running along the bottom of your foot, tightens. When you stand up, the tissue stretches suddenly, causing pain. Plantar fasciitis can happen to anyone, but it is especially common if you spend a lot of time on your feet, have flat feet or high arches, or wear shoes that lack adequate support. The good news is that early treatment can make a big difference. Simple stretches, better footwear, and custom orthotics can help. If heel pain is slowing you down, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Jim Maxka, DPM from South Penn Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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

Proper foot care is essential for individuals with diabetes to prevent complications that can lead to serious infections or ulcers. Daily foot inspection helps identify cuts, blisters, or changes in skin color before they become severe. Washing feet with mild soap and warm water keeps the skin clean and reduces the risk of infections. Protecting feet by keeping them moisturized and avoiding walking barefoot prevents injuries that may go unnoticed due to reduced sensation. Wearing well-fitted, supportive footwear helps prevent pressure points and friction that can lead to sores. Additionally,  keeping toenails trimmed straight across reduces the risk of ingrown nails and infections. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist regularly who can help you to manage this serious 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 Jim Maxka, DPM from South Penn Foot & Ankle Associates. 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 our office located in Hanover, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot drop occurs when patients find it difficult to lift the front portion of their foot, resulting in dragging or slapping of the foot while walking. Known as steppage gait, this walking pattern involves raising the leg higher than usual to prevent the toes from catching on the ground. Foot drop may affect one or both feet, causing sensations of tingling, numbness, or weakness in the ankle, toes, or top of the foot. Several conditions can cause foot drop, including peripheral neuropathy, muscular dystrophy, nerve injury, diabetes, and neurological issues like stroke or multiple sclerosis. A podiatrist can assess symptoms through a physical examination, checking for muscle weakness or loss of function, and by performing nerve conduction studies, ultrasounds, or imaging tests to rule out other causes. Treatment of foot drop often involves nerve stimulation, or wearing braces or orthotics to support proper foot positioning. In some cases, surgery may be needed to repair nerve damage or reposition tendons. If you have trouble lifting your feet when walking, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Jim Maxka, DPM from South Penn Foot & Ankle Associates. 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 office located in Hanover, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.