Blogs

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. It often affects the big toe because this joint is more prone to cooler temperatures and stress, which can encourage crystal formation. Symptoms include sudden intense pain, redness, swelling, and warmth in the affected area. Flare-ups can occur suddenly and may limit movement. Risk factors include a diet high in purines, dehydration, certain medications, and underlying health conditions. A podiatrist can help manage symptoms, provide guidance on lifestyle changes, and recommend treatments to reduce inflammation and prevent future attacks. Gout can be painful and may impact daily activities. If you have had one or more gout attacks, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you to manage this painful condition.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact One of our podiatrists from Taub Podiatry. 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 Stuart, Port St. Lucie, and Hobe Sound, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Poor circulation refers to reduced blood flow to certain areas of the body, often affecting the feet and legs. It can be caused by diabetes, peripheral artery disease, and varicose veins, which interfere with healthy blood movement. Symptoms include muscle cramps, pain, and cold hands or feet, along with slow healing of minor wounds. Risk factors include smoking, inactivity, obesity, and aging. Without proper care, circulation problems can increase the risk of serious foot complications. A podiatrist can assess blood flow, identify early warning signs, and recommend treatment to improve circulation and protect foot health. If you have symptoms of poor circulation in your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment remedies.

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 One of our podiatrists of Taub Podiatry. Our doctors 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 offices located in Stuart, Port St. Lucie, and Hobe Sound, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Cracked heels develop when the skin around the heel becomes dry, thick, and splits due to pressure and lack of moisture. Causes include prolonged standing, wearing open-back shoes, and footwear that does not properly support the heel, which increases stress on the skin. Dry climates can worsen the condition by removing natural moisture. Risk factors include obesity, aging, and poor foot-care habits. Symptoms include rough skin, flaking, discomfort, and painful fissures that can deepen if untreated. A podiatrist can assess severity, remove thickened skin safely, recommend treatments, and provide guidance on proper footwear and hydration. Cracked heels can be painful. If you have developed  this condition, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, 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 One of our podiatrists from Taub Podiatry. Our doctors 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 offices located in Stuart, Port St. Lucie, and Hobe Sound, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is caused by compression of the posterior tibial nerve as it passes through a narrow space inside the ankle. This pressure can lead to tingling, burning, numbness, or shooting pain in the foot and ankle. Common causes include flat feet, swelling, injury, or underlying conditions that place stress on the nerve. Risk factors include repetitive activity, improper footwear, and prolonged standing. A podiatrist can perform a thorough evaluation, identify the source of nerve compression, and develop a personalized treatment plan. Options include orthotics, footwear guidance, or targeted therapies. Early diagnosis can prevent worsening symptoms and improve mobility. If you have any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat what may be going on.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact One of our podiatrists of Taub Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Stuart, Port St. Lucie, and Hobe Sound, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.