Gout is an inflammatory arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals within the joints, leading to intense inflammation and discomfort. Symptoms often appear suddenly, and may include swelling, redness, warmth, and severe pain that frequently affects the big toe, but can involve other joints of the foot and ankle. These attacks may occur without warning and can limit walking and daily activity. Causes include elevated uric acid levels in the blood, which may be influenced by diet, genetics, and certain medical conditions. Risk factors include obesity, family history, medications, and metabolic disorders. A podiatrist can diagnose gout through a clinical evaluation, manage painful flare-ups, and develop a treatment plan to protect joint health. If you have symptoms of gout, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief and management techniques.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Theresa Brown, DPM from Essie M.B. Smith Foot Clinic. 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 Montgomery, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Measuring your foot is a simple way to ensure proper shoe fit and avoid discomfort. To measure length, place your heel against a wall and mark the tip of your longest toe, then measure the distance. To measure width, wrap a soft tape measure around the widest part of your foot, and then use a conversion chart to determine the correct shoe size. Wearing shoes that do not fit properly can lead to blisters, bunions, corns, hammertoes, and even long-term joint pain. A podiatrist can assess your foot shape, gait, and any underlying conditions while recommending supportive shoes or custom orthotics for comfort and protection. If you have foot pain from wearing the wrong shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on additional tips for finding your right shoe size.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of Theresa Brown, DPM from Essie M.B. Smith Foot Clinic. Our doctor will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

• When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
• Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
• Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
• Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
• If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

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

Corns and callouses are thickened areas of skin that develop in response to repeated pressure or friction on the feet. They often appear on the toes, soles, or heels and may look hard, rough, yellowed, or raised. Corns are usually smaller with a central core, while callouses cover a broader area. These areas can feel uncomfortable, tender, or painful, especially when walking or wearing shoes, and some people notice a burning or aching sensation. Causes include ill-fitting footwear, high activity levels, repetitive motion, and lack of cushioning or support. A podiatrist can help from the start by identifying the source of pressure and confirming the diagnosis. Initial treatment may include safe removal of thickened skin. Care can then move into custom orthotics, gait evaluation, and preventive strategies to reduce recurrence and improve comfort. Addressing corns and callouses early can help protect overall foot health. For care, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Theresa Brown, DPM of Essie M.B. Smith Foot Clinic. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

• Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
• Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
• Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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

Ankle sprains are a common injury among volleyball players due to sudden jumps, quick lateral movements, and unexpected landings. These movements can stretch or tear the ligaments that support the ankle, causing pain and instability. Symptoms of an ankle sprain include swelling, bruising, tenderness, difficulty bearing weight, and a feeling of the ankle giving way during activity. If left untreated, repeated sprains can lead to chronic instability and long-term joint problems. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity of the sprain, recommend appropriate treatment such as rest or bracing, and provide guidance on proper footwear or supportive devices to prevent future injuries. If you have  ankle pain or instability after volleyball activity, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist to restore stability, reduce pain, and protect your ankle for a safe return to the sport.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Theresa Brown, DPM from Essie M.B. Smith Foot Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Montgomery, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.