Gout is a type of arthritis notorious for its sudden and excruciating pain. Gout typically targets one joint at a time, and commonly strikes in the big toe joint. Flares, which are periods of intense symptoms, alternate with remission phases. The primary culprit behind gout is an excess of uric acid in the body, which forms crystals that accumulate in joints, fluids, and tissues, sparking inflammation. While gout has no cure, it can be effectively managed with medication and certain lifestyle adjustments. Diagnosis by a podiatrist usually occurs during a flare up, involving symptom assessment, physical examination, and lab tests to detect uric acid crystals. Seeking diagnosis and treatment from a podiatrist is important due to gout’s nonspecific symptoms that resemble other inflammatory disorders. Treatment typically involves pain management during flare ups with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, NSAIDs, or colchicine. Other preventive measures can include dietary changes to eliminate foods rich in purines and weight management to reduce future attacks and complications. If you are experiencing symptoms like sudden joint pain or swelling, especially in the big toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Pasquale Cancelliere, DPM from Candria Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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

Severe ankle sprains that do not respond well to conservative treatment methods, such as rest and elevation, may require surgical intervention to restore stability and function to the ankle. A podiatrist, or foot doctor, might suggest surgical procedures like arthroscopy, where a small camera and instruments are inserted through tiny incisions to visualize, diagnose, and repair damage to the ligaments inside the ankle. Severe tearing of the ligaments may require reconstructive surgery, which involves replacing the damaged ligament with a tendon graft taken from another part of the body or using synthetic materials to stabilize the ankle. These surgical options aim to alleviate pain, restore stability, and prevent chronic issues such as ankle instability or recurrent sprains. Post-surgery, a rehabilitation program with targeted exercises to strengthen the muscles around the ankle is important. This helps patients who have undergone ankle surgery regain full mobility and recover successfully. If you have a sprained ankle, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist promptly for proper care. 

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Pasquale Cancelliere, DPM of Candria Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Working on your feet for extended periods can pose significant health risks. While physical activity is generally beneficial, excessive standing or walking can lead to various health issues. Surprisingly, approximately 75 percent of the global population works on their feet, especially in industries like retail, hospitality, healthcare, and manufacturing. Prolonged standing can cause fatigue, joint pain, and musculoskeletal disorders, contributing to conditions like plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis. Additionally, it increases the risk of developing foot problems, such as bunions, corns, and calluses. To mitigate these risks, it is important to prioritize foot health. Wearing supportive footwear, taking regular breaks to elevate and stretch the feet, and using cushioned mats can help alleviate discomfort. Furthermore, engaging in foot exercises and maintaining a healthy weight can reduce strain on the feet. If you spend most of your workday on your feet and have persistent foot pain or complications, it is suggested that you seek guidance from a podiatrist. This foot doctor can provide personalized recommendations and treatments to alleviate discomfort and prevent long-term damage.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Pasquale Cancelliere, DPM from Candria Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctor 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 Londonderry, NH and Salem, NH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Baseball demands agility, speed, and precise footwork, placing significant strain on the lower extremities, particularly the ankles and feet. Ankle sprains, one of the most prevalent injuries, occur when the ligaments supporting the ankle are overstretched or torn due to sudden twists or impacts. Additionally, conditions like Achilles tendonitis and plantar fasciitis can arise from repetitive stress or inadequate foot support, causing pain and discomfort. To prevent these injuries, players should prioritize proper warm-up exercises to prepare muscles and joints for the demands of the game. Wearing well-fitted, supportive footwear designed for baseball can enhance stability and reduce the risk of injury. Maintaining good conditioning and flexibility through regular strength and flexibility training can improve overall resilience. Emphasizing proper technique, such as avoiding over-striding or landing awkwardly, can also help minimize the risk of ankle and foot injuries. If you have injured your foot or ankle while playing baseball, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and relief tips.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Pasquale Cancelliere, DPM of Candria Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Londonderry, NH and Salem, NH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.