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Although gout is often associated with men, it also affects women, particularly after menopause. Estrogen helps regulate uric acid levels, so its decline increases the risk of developing gout. The condition occurs when uric acid builds up in the bloodstream, forming painful crystals in the joints, including in the big toe. Risk factors include a diet high in purines, obesity, kidney disease, and certain medications that affect uric acid levels. Women with gout often experience symptoms in the toes, ankles, and knees, leading to swelling, redness, and severe pain. If left untreated, gout can cause joint damage and chronic pain, affecting mobility and quality of life. If you have pain in your big toe, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. Our doctors 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 Pasadena, Baytown, League City, Houston, and Pearland,TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Achilles tendinopathy is not just a runner’s problem. It can strike anyone who overworks their Achilles tendon without enough recovery. This overuse injury happens when tiny, repeated strains cause the tendon to weaken and thicken, making every step feel stiff and sore. The pain usually starts as a dull ache in the back of the heel or lower calf, especially after activity. Ignoring it can lead to worsening pain and even a rupture. Rest and targeted exercises are key. Stretching, strengthening exercises, and supportive footwear can help the tendon heal. A podiatrist may also recommend orthotics or shockwave therapy for stubborn cases. If your Achilles tendon has been nagging you for weeks, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Pasadena, Baytown, League City, Houston, and Pearland,TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Trail running shoes are specifically designed to provide support, traction, and durability for off-road running. These shoes typically feature a more aggressive tread pattern compared to road running shoes, offering better grip on uneven surfaces like dirt, rocks, and mud. Trail shoes also provide added protection with reinforced toe caps and a thicker midsole to absorb the impact from rough terrains. Different types of trails require different shoe features. For smooth, well-maintained trails, shoes with lighter weight and moderate cushioning are ideal. For more technical and rugged trails, shoes with extra cushioning, stability, and a more robust tread are recommended. The type of terrain, whether it be rocky, muddy, or snowy, should be considered when selecting trail shoes, as each condition demands specific shoe characteristics to ensure comfort and performance. If you have sustained a foot injury from wearing the wrong running shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on what shoes to wear for your desired type of running.

If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.

• Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
• Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
• Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Pasadena, Baytown, League City, Houston, and Pearland,TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.