Gout is a form of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to sudden inflammation and intense discomfort. Although it is more common in adults, it can affect children, especially those with certain health conditions. Pediatric gout can develop due to obesity, Down syndrome, kidney disease, or metabolic issues that affect how the body processes uric acid. Symptoms include severe pain, swelling, redness, and warmth in the big toe. A podiatrist can evaluate the feet and ankles, identify flare triggers, provide guidance on supportive care, and create a plan to reduce discomfort and prevent future episodes. If your child has pain in the big toe or other symptoms of gout, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to ensure your child receives expert foot and ankle care.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Suncoast Podiatry Associates. Our doctors 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 office located in Ocala, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

It can be surprising to feel ankle pain when you have not twisted, fallen, or had any clear accident. However, sudden discomfort can develop from issues that build quietly over time. Conditions such as tendon inflammation, gout, arthritis, or even nerve irritation can cause swelling and pain without a recent injury. Sometimes, repetitive motion or wearing unsupportive shoes places extra stress on the ankle joint and surrounding ligaments, leading to stiffness or tenderness. Ignoring these early signs can allow the problem to worsen, making walking or standing uncomfortable. A podiatrist can perform a detailed evaluation to identify the true cause of the pain and recommend treatment, such as rest, supportive footwear, targeted exercises, or medication to reduce inflammation. If ankle pain appears suddenly or persists without explanation, it is suggested that you schedule a podiatric visit for a diagnosis and appropriate care.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Suncoast Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

Diabetes can quietly affect the feet in several ways that make infections more likely. Reduced circulation limits oxygen and nutrient delivery, slowing the healing of even minor cuts. Nerve damage often dulls sensation, so small injuries may go unnoticed until they worsen. Elevated blood sugar also weakens the body’s defenses, allowing bacteria to thrive and infections to develop more easily. Additional risks include wearing tight or poorly fitted shoes, dry skin that cracks, and a past history of ulcers or wounds. Smoking and uncontrolled glucose levels can make recovery even slower. Preventive care is essential. Daily foot checks, proper footwear, and prompt attention to any irritation or sore help protect long-term health. If you live with diabetes and develop a foot wound that does not improve quickly, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist for timely evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Suncoast Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

For individuals managing diabetes, a foot wound is not just a minor injury, it represents a serious health risk. Elevated blood sugar over time can damage nerves, called neuropathy, and cause a dulling sensation so a small cut or blister goes unnoticed. Additionally, poor circulation, known as peripheral artery disease, slows healing, turning a simple wound into a chronic, non-healing ulcer that puts you at high risk for infection and potential limb loss. A podiatrist's role involves an important risk assessment to determine your level of vulnerability. This comprehensive exam includes checking for nerve function using specialized tools, assessing blood flow through palpation and Doppler studies, and evaluating any structural deformities that cause pressure points. This detailed information allows us to implement a targeted prevention and treatment plan, which is essential to safeguarding your mobility and overall health. Do not wait for a problem to appear. If you have diabetes and notice any changes to your feet, skin, or nail condition, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with one of our podiatrists from Suncoast Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Ocala, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.