Hyperuricemia refers to higher than normal levels of uric acid in the blood, a substance produced when the body breaks down certain foods and cells. It can be linked to gout, which is an arthritic condition, causing severe pain in the big toe. While it is more commonly discussed in adults, it can also occur in children and adolescents. In some cases, it does not cause noticeable symptoms, but it may be linked to joint discomfort, swelling, or the development of crystal buildup in joints, over time. Factors such as diet, weight, genetics, and underlying health conditions can all play a role. Early recognition allows for guidance on nutrition, hydration, and activity to help manage levels and reduce stress on the body. When symptoms are present, targeted care may be needed to address discomfort and prevent progression. If your child or teen is experiencing foot pain or swelling in the big toe or surrounding areas, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Nassau Foot & Ankle. Our doctors 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 Oceanside, Franklin Square, and East Norwich, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Heel bone spurs are growths that form on the underside or back of the heel, often developing gradually due to repeated strain on the foot. They are commonly associated with plantar fasciitis, where ongoing tension on the plantar fascia leads to calcium deposits building up over time. Many people do not notice the spur itself, but instead feel sharp or aching pain in the heel, especially with the first steps in the morning or after rest. Contributing causes include long periods of standing, improper footwear, flat feet or high arches, and tight calf muscles that increase stress on the heel. The area may feel tender and sore, though the spur is not always visible externally. A podiatrist can diagnose heel spurs through examination and X-rays. Treatment focuses on reducing strain with supportive shoes, custom orthotics, and targeted exercises. If you have heel pain related to bone spurs, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact one of our podiatrists from Nassau Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Oceanside, Franklin Square, and East Norwich, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Working in a fast-paced restaurant kitchen places constant stress on the feet, due to long hours of standing and quick movements on hard surfaces. Wearing supportive, non-slip shoes helps improve stability and reduce the risk of slips and falls. Anti-fatigue mats can lessen pressure on joints, while taking regular breaks allows the feet to rest and recover. Compression socks may improve circulation and reduce swelling during long shifts. Risk factors include prolonged standing, heavy workloads, and improper footwear. Conditions like plantar fasciitis may develop without proper care. If you have foot pain during your work day, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Nassau Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Oceanside, Franklin Square, and East Norwich, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory condition that can significantly affect the joints of the feet and ankles. Because each foot contains many small joints, this disease often causes pain, stiffness, and swelling in the toes and the front of the foot. Many patients notice morning stiffness that improves slowly as the day progresses. The joints may appear swollen or warm, and over time the toes can shift out of their normal position, sometimes creating bunions or hammertoes. Walking may become uncomfortable as pressure points develop on the ball of the foot. Rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints, leading to ongoing inflammation and joint damage. A podiatrist can help identify how the condition is affecting the feet through examination and imaging when needed. Treatment may include supportive footwear, custom orthotics, protective padding, and targeted exercises to maintain joint mobility. If you have rheumatoid arthritis affecting your feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Nassau Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Oceanside, Franklin Square, and East Norwich, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.