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Merrillville, IN
Munster, IN

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May 2023

Tuesday, 30 May 2023 00:00

Plant-Based Foods and Gout

Gout is a particular kind of foot affliction that is essentially a form of inflammatory arthritis. In particular, gout is often characterized by pain in the joints of the feet. There are specific types of foods that are either good or bad for increasing the risk of gout. Importantly, plant-based foods can decrease the risk of triggering a gout attack. The reason for this is that plant-based foods are especially low in purines. There are many different types of plant-based foods. The list includes beans, seeds, nuts, vegetables, and whole grains. If you are someone that has gout attacks, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can help you to find relief and manage this painful condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Ahmad Elsamad, DPM from The Institute of Foot & Ankle Reconstructive Surgery . 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 Merrillville, and Munster, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Tuesday, 23 May 2023 00:00

Preventing Falls in the Office

For some seniors that have yet to retire, working in the office can present dangers to the health of their feet. For instance, as a senior gets older, they can become increasingly susceptible to suffering from falls or trips that can lead to foot conditions like fractures. There are certain steps that a senior might consider taking in their office to prevent falls or trips. Specifically, many workers might have extension cords and wires surrounding their desks. This can present a significant tripping hazard, making falls more likely. A senior worker might consider cleaning up the cords to minimize any potential tripping hazards. Additionally, a senior worker could possibly ensure that the floors in their office space are dry. In other words, having liquids on the floor can increase the likelihood of falls. If you are someone that is a senior and is still working in the office, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist to learn more about fall prevention and the effect falling can have on the feet.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Ahmad Elsamad, DPM from The Institute of Foot & Ankle Reconstructive Surgery . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

  • Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
  • Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
  • Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
  • Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
  • Utilizing a walker or cane
  • Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
  • Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

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Tuesday, 16 May 2023 00:00

Foot Blisters During the Summer

Many individuals who care about maintaining good foot health take extra care to avoid getting blisters on their feet. The reason is that foot blisters can cause discomfort and are unsightly. During the summer season, an individual could potentially be at an increased risk of developing foot blisters. At this time, an individual can sweat more than usual, specifically in the feet. When there is extra sweat around the feet, this can lead to more friction between the feet and the shoes. With the added friction comes an increased chance of developing friction-related blisters. Therefore, as the weather gets warmer into the summer months, a vigilant person can take steps to minimize sweating and blister formation on the feet. If you are someone looking to prevent blisters, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today for more information.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Ahmad Elsamad, DPM of The Institute of Foot & Ankle Reconstructive Surgery . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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

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Tuesday, 09 May 2023 00:00

Pinky Toe Pain

As small as the pinky toe is, it can become extremely painful when it is injured. Pain in this toe may come from a variety of causes including a break or sprain, wearing shoes that are too tight, or a corn. This toe is more prone to injury because it is on the outside of the foot. An injury to this toe may result in swelling and pain. A broken or fractured pinky toe can happen if it is stubbed from a direct blow or a heavy object falls on it. A sprained pinky toe can happen from bumping the toe or stretching it beyond its normal range. It involves injury to the ligament of the toe. A corn, with hardened layers of skin, can develop on the small toe in response to pressure or friction and often from wearing tight-fitting shoes. Since the varied causes of pain in the pinky toe result in similar symptoms, if you have pain in this toe that does not resolve with rest, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment. This is important to ensure that it heals properly and does not lead to other problems.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Ahmad Elsamad, DPM of The Institute of Foot & Ankle Reconstructive Surgery . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Trauma
  • Sports injury
  • Wearing shoes that are too tight
  • Arthritis
  • Gout
  • Corns and calluses
  • Hammertoe
  • Bunions
  • Blisters
  • Ingrown toenails
  • Sprains
  • Fractures (broken bones)
  • Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

  • Severe pain
  • Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
  • Signs of infection
  • Continued swelling
  • Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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

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Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.

Tuesday, 02 May 2023 00:00

Foot Pain From Standing During the Day

Many people have professions that require working on the feet, which may lead to getting foot fatigue. Wearing shoes that do not fit correctly may cause foot pain. Common reasons for foot pain during the working day can include standing on hard or uneven surfaces or having existing medical conditions, such as poor circulation. Heel pain may indicate plantar fasciitis or a heel spur has developed, and may come from wearing shoes that lack adequate support. This may be temporarily relieved by wearing shoes with cushioned heels and adequate arch support. People who stand for the day may notice one foot is more painful than the other. This may be from standing unevenly throughout the day, which may possibly be caused by an abnormal foot structure. Additionally, people who favor one side of their body may move toward that side, and it is important to be mindful and to shift the weight. If you have developed foot pain from standing during the work day, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this problem.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Ahmad Elsamad, DPM from The Institute of Foot & Ankle Reconstructive Surgery . 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 feel free to contact our offices located in Merrillville, and Munster, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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