Gout is a form of arthritis that results in joint pain and swelling in the joints and frequently attacks the big toe. Gout is caused by a buildup of uric acid in the blood that forms crystals in the joints. If ignored, gout can result in serious health issues affecting the kidneys and may permanently damage the joints. The main cause of high uric acid in the blood is that it is not being flushed out properly. Genetics is thought to be the number one contributor to this. Other factors include underlying health issues and side effects of certain medication. You may be at higher risk of developing gout if you are overweight, have high blood pressure, and eat foods rich in purines. Men over 40 and women in menopause are also at greater risk of developing gout. If you have two or more gout attacks in your toe within a year, it is a good idea to contact a podiatrist. A number of medical treatments are available to keep the uric acid levels down. Changes to diet and weight reduction may also be recommended.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact the foot specialists from Table Mountain Foot and 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 office located in Wheat Ridge, CO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The probability is high for developing a bunion. Research has shown that one-third of Americans will eventually have bunions, and it is easier to treat in the beginning stages. It is defined as a bony growth that gradually forms on the side of the big toe, and can cause discomfort while walking. It happens from genetic reasons, or, most commonly from wearing shoes that do not have enough room for the toes to move freely in. Calluses and corns may form on untreated bunions, and larger shoes may need to be purchased that can accommodate the bunion. Relief may be found when the correct width of shoes are worn, and high heels may have to be eliminated from frequent wearing. Bunions will typically not diminish on their own, but they may be easier to live with when the right shoes are worn. If the bunion is making daily activities difficult to accomplish, surgery may be a necessary option for permanent relief. It is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide you with the answers you may be seeking. 

If you are suffering from bunions, contact the foot specialists of Table Mountain Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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

Cuboid syndrome or cuboid subluxation is a condition that comes from trauma or injury to the calcaneocuboid joint and surrounding ligaments. It is a common injury among athletes and dancers. The cuboid bone provides stability to the outer side of the midfoot and helps distribute the weight of the body across the foot to help with walking comfortably. With cuboid syndrome, the foot is painful, red, and occasionally, it is hard to move. Cuboid syndrome can be hard to diagnose because it has symptoms that can be related to different types of foot injuries. This condition can usually be diagnosed through physical exams where the foot is manipulated to try and bring on the symptoms of cuboid syndrome. If the results of these tests indicate cuboid syndrome, the podiatrist will possibly relocate the cuboid bone back into place or instruct the sufferer to refrain from putting weight on the affected foot and rest it to give the cuboid bone time to heal. If you have pain in the midfoot area, consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose the condition and provide the best treatment for you.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with the foot specialists from Table Mountain Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

• Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
• Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
• Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

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

Athlete’s foot is a specific kind of foot condition that is spread by a fungus and causes a scaly rash, especially between the toes. To prevent or mitigate the spread of the fungal infection, an individual might consider being particularly careful with how they handle their laundry. This is because spores can often spread from clothes to clothes. First, someone might try separating infected clothes from non-infected clothes. For example, if someone in the household has been exposed to athlete’s foot, one might separate that person’s clothes into a bin to be washed separately from the other clothes. When the infected batch of laundry is washed, one could use hot water for the infected laundry because cold water does not eliminate the fungus. The goal is to prevent the fungus from spreading to other materials in the wash. Contact a podiatrist today to learn more about preventing the spread of athlete’s foot.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact the foot specialists from Table Mountain Foot and Ankle.  Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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

There are medical conditions that can arise from being obese. Plantar fasciitis is one such ailment that affects the heel and arch of the foot. The band of tissue that runs along the soles is called the plantar fascia and can become strained from enduring additional weight. The feet are the foundation of the body, and it is wise to lose weight to help reduce stress on the plantar fascia. Plantar fasciitis is a foot condition that can happen when the plantar fascia becomes inflamed which may cause severe pain and discomfort. People who are obese may find it helpful to spend extra time in choosing shoes that can accommodate their feet. Shoes that have a good arch support and a slightly raised heel are best to help prevent plantar fasciitis from developing. Wearing custom-made orthotics may be an option to further reduce existing tension on the plantar fascia. If you are overweight and would like to know how to protect your feet, please consult with a podiatrist who can offer you weight management advice in addition to tips on how to protect your feet.

The more you weigh, the harder your feet must work to support your body. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact the foot specialists from Table Mountain Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Obesity and Your Feet

People who are overweight are putting more pressure on their ankles, knees, and hips as well as their feet. This unfortunately can lead to variety of different issues.

Problems & Complications Stemming from Obesity

• When the body is overweight, it tries to compensate by changing the way that it moves. An obese person may lean forward and put extra weight on the wrong part of the foot. This puts unnecessary stress on the feet.
• Obese people are also more likely to develop type II diabetes which is a condition that causes a lot of foot problems. People with diabetes often don’t feel the cuts and sores that they may have on their feet, which can lead to more complicated and severe issues.
• Plantar fasciitis is another foot condition that can be caused by obesity. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot, which causes pain and stiffness while walking and climbing stairs.

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

A bunion, medically known as hallux valgus, occurs when the base of the big toe bone moves outward, pushing the rest of the toe inward. A bunion can cause the foot to become wider, and make it difficult to find shoes that fit. It often rubs against the inside of the toe box and becomes red and irritated. Although wearing shoes that are too small, especially during one’s formative years, is not ideal, it is believed that genetics play a major role in the development of a bunion. Most people with bunions can find some relief through non-surgical means, including pain relief medication. In addition, finding wider shoes with a lower heel, and avoiding high heels, or shoes that are excessively pointy, can help. Losing weight may also reduce the pressure on the big toe. In severe cases, surgery is an option that can help correct the alignment of the toes. If a bunion is causing pain on a regular basis, it is a good idea to consult a podiatrist who can assess the situation and suggest a treatment plan.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact the foot specialists of Table Mountain Foot and Ankle. Our doctors 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 Wheat Ridge, CO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A heel spur is caused when calcium builds up on the heel bone. It can be a plantar heel spur, which grows on the bottom of the heel, or a posterior heel spur, which grows on the back of the heel. A great many people have heel spurs and won’t know it until the spurs show up on an X-ray. Others with heel spurs can experience a great deal of pain, which can be acute, intermittent, or chronic. The precise cause of heel spurs has been debated by scientists, but what is clear is that more than 80 percent of people who have them are overweight. Older people also are more likely to develop heel spurs, as are post-menopausal women. Possible causes include arthritis, plantar fasciitis, excessive running or jogging, and shoes without adequate cushioning in the heel. The two main ways to treat bone spurs are resting and icing the foot and wearing orthotic shoe inserts. If the pain caused by heel spurs continues or worsens, it is a good idea to visit a podiatrist who may suggest further treatment options, such as corticosteroid injections and being fitted for custom orthotics.

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 the foot specialists from Table Mountain Foot and 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 feel free to contact our office located in Wheat Ridge, CO . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.