Gout is a painful arthritic condition caused by an excessive amount of uric acid in the body that hardens into crystals that lodge in the joints. Gout can occur in any joint, however, it is most common in the metatarsophalangeal, or MTP, joint at the base of the big toe. People with gout may also have other forms of arthritis, such as osteoarthritis (OA), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and psoriatic arthritis (PsA)—particularly because they all share obesity as a risk factor. In addition, the degenerative effects OA has on joints, and the faster skin cell turnover cycle in PsA can make a person more susceptible to developing gout. If you have any pain in your MTP joint, or any joint in your feet or ankles, a podiatrist can examine you and make a proper diagnosis with a CT scan and/or joint (synovial) fluid analysis. Once your podiatrist determines the presence of gout or any other form of arthritis, they can treat you accordingly.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Blake Zobell from Utah. 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 one of our offices located in Richfield and Ephraim, Utah . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The tibial nerve in the ankle enables movement and feeling in areas of the foot. When this nerve gets compressed, it forms what is known as tarsal tunnel syndrome.  This can happen as a result of a sprained ankle, or medical conditions that can include flat feet, high arches, or diabetes. Tarsal tunnel syndrome often causes severe pain and discomfort and is noticeable in the bottom of the foot and toes. Some of the tests that are performed to reach a diagnosis can include a nerve biopsy, and electromyography, which is a recording of electrical activity in the muscles. Treatment options can include resting and elevating the affected foot, and surgery may be recommended that can permanently reduce the pressure. Tarsal tunnel syndrome is diagnosed and treated by a podiatrist, and it is advised to consult with this type of doctor if you think you may have this condition.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Dr. Blake Zobell of Utah. Our doctor 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 feel free to contact one of our offices located in Richfield and Ephraim, Utah . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

An effective stretch that benefits the bottom of the foot is known as a toe squat. It is known to strengthen the plantar fascia, which is the portion of tissue that is found on the sole of the foot. It connects the heel to the toes and is instrumental in performing daily activities that include walking and running. This stretch is performed by keeping your feet together as you are sitting on your heels. As the toes are tucked under, it is important to remain on the balls of the feet and avoid the tips of the toes. Breathing with the posture may intensify the stretch, as it is being held for two to three minutes. People who practice this stretch find it is beneficial to slowly release the position, and this can help to protect the bottom of the foot. If you would like to learn more about how to practice effective foot stretches, please speak with a podiatrist.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Dr. Blake Zobell from Utah. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

• Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
• Similar to the previous one, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
• Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
• Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising and ice and rest the foot. It is advised to then see a podiatrist for help.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Richfield and Ephraim, Utah . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Osteoarthritis in the ankles is a very painful condition which causes the cartilage that protects bones in the ankle to deteriorate. This leads to bones rubbing against each other, swelling, stiffness, tenderness and intense pain in the ankle, and a decreased ability to walk or bend and flex your ankles. Several factors can increase your risk of developing osteoarthritis (OA) in the ankles, such as previous ankle injuries, recurrent high-impact stress on the ankles, misaligned joints, genetics, obesity and age. Your podiatrist can diagnose OA with a physical exam to test joint tenderness and swelling, X-rays, a gait analysis to assess your stride and foot and ankle biomechanics, and blood tests to distinguish OA from other forms of arthritis. There are many ways a podiatrist can help you manage the symptoms of OA, from lifestyle changes and physical therapy to various braces and orthotic devices, topical creams, pain relievers, and steroid injections. In severe cases of OA, surgery may be beneficial to remove spurs and loose cartilage, fuse the ankle to reduce pain, or replace damaged cartilage and bone with prosthetic parts (arthroplasty). If you believe you may have osteoarthritis in the ankle, it is suggested that you make an appointment as soon as possible to begin treatment.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Blake Zobell from Utah. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Richfield and Ephraim, Utah . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

You may have heard that toenails should be trimmed straight across (as opposed to rounded) and that they should not be too short. Maintaining your toenails in this way will help avoid the toenail from growing into the skin surrounding it, which can lead to an ingrown toenail. Aside from improper toenail trimming, it is believed that wearing shoes that are too narrow in the toe box or are too short—causing your big toe to rub against the tip—can sometimes lead to an ingrown toenail. While an ingrown toenail may not cause any symptoms at first, in time it may become painful, red, swollen, and possibly infected. Pus may even collect under the nail and then drain. If you have an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you seek the professional care of a podiatrist as soon as possible while treatment methods are typically more simple.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Blake Zobell of Utah. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Richfield and Ephraim, Utah . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gout is a type of arthritis that typically attacks the foot, ankle and knee, causing swelling, redness, and pain. It is caused by a buildup of uric acid in the body. Flare-ups can last three to 10 days before they subside, only to recur sometimes months or years later. The most common symptom of acute gout is extreme pain, especially in the big toe. Medical treatment, along with a number of lifestyle and dietary changes, can help reduce the frequency and severity of gout attacks. If you experience sudden pain and swelling in the big toe or ankle, please consult a podiatrist as soon as possible. When caught and treated early, people with gout can live a relatively normal life.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Blake Zobell from Utah. 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 one of our offices located in Richfield and Ephraim, Utah . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

When the heel bone is under repeated stress, calcium deposits can form on the inside of it. These deposits, known as heel spurs, point towards the arch and can measure up to half an inch. Heel spurs can be associated with plantar fasciitis, and they are sometimes masked by the discomfort of that condition. Some heel spurs may not produce any symptoms, while others can be quite painful. You can try to get relief from a heel spur by using cold compresses or over-the-counter anti-inflammatories to reduce inflammation. Certain foot and calf stretches may also help to relieve pain as well. Patients who are struggling with heel pain that may be a heel spur should consult with a podiatrist.  A podiatrist can diagnose the source of the pain and offer more advanced forms of treatment.

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 Dr. Blake Zobell from Utah. Our doctor 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 one of our offices located in Richfield and Ephraim, Utah . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.