Items filtered by date: January 2023

Studies have indicated that the foot condition known as gout affects men more than women. While this is still true, over the last 20 years the number of cases in which women have developed gout has doubled. Menopause may be a contributing factor due to a lack of estrogen. Gout is a form of arthritis that generally affects the joints in the big toe. This happens as a result of excess uric acid in the blood which collects in the joints of the toes. Studies have shown that women experience gout in multiple joints and may begin in toes other than the big toe. Gout attacks can be controlled by eating foods that have fewer purines than other foods. It is suggested to limit the intake of red meat, shellfish, and drinks that contain a large amount of sugar. Engaging in light exercise programs and drinking plenty of water daily may help. Gout can cause debilitating pain so it is wise to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose and treat this condition.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Eddy Caldwell from Foot Care of Northeast Arkansas, P.A.. 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 Jonesboro, AR . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Skateboarding is better achieved with healthy feet. Since the activity requires the feet to balance on the board and perform tricks, the feet must be in good shape. Many individuals with flat feet wonder how this condition affects skateboarding. Flat feet develop when the entire bottom of the foot, or sole, rests flush against the floor. In other words, people with flat feet have no arch. Interestingly, individuals with flat feet can ensure that this condition does not affect their ability to ride a skateboard when they wear supportive footwear. Additionally, wearing supportive devices such as insoles can make skateboarding easier for individuals with flat feet. If you are someone that has flat feet and enjoys skateboarding, contact a podiatrist today for more information on how you can best engage in that activity. Podiatrists are foot specialists that can identify and treat a range of different foot conditions.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. Eddy Caldwell from Foot Care of Northeast Arkansas, P.A.. 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 Jonesboro, AR . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Sesamoiditis causes pain in the ball of the foot, specifically under the big toe. The sesamoid bones are located in the tendons of the big toe and may become injured for various reasons. Inflammation can lead to a decreased range of motion, and it is common among people who have sesamoiditis. There are specific stretches and exercises that are helpful in restoring range of motion to a normal level, in addition to strengthening the entire foot. An effective stretch is done by extending the affected leg while sitting down, and curling the big toe under, followed by pulling it back. When the inflammation has mildly subsided, another exercise to perform is done by standing, and rising up on the toes. After holding for several seconds, the number of repetitions can be repeated. If you feel pain or discomfort in the bottom of your foot, please confer with a podiatrist who can determine if it is caused by sesamoiditis and offer correct treatment methods.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Dr. Eddy Caldwell of Foot Care of Northeast Arkansas, P.A.. Our doctor will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

• Sudden increase in activity
• Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
• Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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

Pain in the top of the foot may be caused by participating in running, jumping, or kicking activities. It may also come from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, or possibly from a medical condition that is known as gout. The pain may be accompanied by red, hot or swollen skin, and the affected area may be stiff. Mild relief may be found when the foot is frequently elevated, and gently stretching the foot. It is beneficial to wear soft insoles in the shoes, in addition to losing weight, if applicable. Foot pain may be a sign of arthritis, which may cause some patients to feel a grating or crackling sensation. An ankle sprain is a common reason to have foot pain, and there is often immediate bruising and swelling. If you have foot pain for any reason, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can diagnose and effectively treat foot and ankle pain.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. Eddy Caldwell from Foot Care of Northeast Arkansas, P.A.. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

If your feet and toes often feel cold, especially when stressed, you may have Raynaud’s phenomenon. While this condition is not inherently dangerous, it can cause discomfort. A common symptom of this circulation disorder is skin discoloration. First, the skin turns white as the flow of blood is restricted. The skin may then turn blue when the blood vessels are affected. Finally, the skin may turn red as blood flow returns. Other symptoms include pain, numbness, and a feeling of pins and needles. Moving the toes may seem difficult too. These symptoms can last a few minutes or up to an hour. To combat the occurrence of Raynaud’s phenomenon it is suggested that you quit smoking and limit the intake of caffeine. In addition, keep your feet warm with heavy socks and exercise them to increase blood flow. Experts suggest that if you first experience the symptoms of Raynaud’s phenomenon under the age of 12 or over the age of 30, you visit a podiatrist for a complete examination. These symptoms may be a sign of an underlying or more serious condition.

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Dr. Eddy Caldwell of Foot Care of Northeast Arkansas, P.A.. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
• Pain
• Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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