Chronic gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by repeated buildup of uric acid crystals within the joints. It often affects the big toe, midfoot, or ankle. Unlike occasional attacks, chronic gout may lead to ongoing pain, stiffness, and swelling. Joint damage may occur over time. The affected joints can appear red, enlarged, and tender. Some patients develop hard deposits called tophi beneath the skin. Walking may become difficult during flare-ups, especially when pressure is placed on the inflamed area. Chronic gout can develop when uric acid levels remain elevated for long periods. This may be due to diet, kidney problems, certain medications, or genetic factors. A podiatrist can help identify gout-related foot problems, evaluate joint damage, and work with other healthcare providers to guide treatment. Care may include medication management, supportive footwear, and recommendations to reduce stress on painful joints. If you have chronic gout, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and prevention solutions for this painful condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Joan Oloff, DPM from Los Gatos Foot and Ankle . 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 office located in Los Gatos, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Sever’s disease is a common cause of heel pain in growing children. It is related to irritation of the growth plate in this area. It most often affects active children during growth spurts when bones, muscles, and tendons are developing at different rates. Risk factors include participation in sports, tight calf muscles, and repetitive stress on the heel. Symptoms include heel pain during activity, tenderness, and limping. Discomfort often improves with rest, but can return with movement. A podiatrist can evaluate the condition, and recommend stretching, supportive footwear, and other treatments to reduce strain and promote healing. Early care can improve comfort and prevent ongoing issues. If your active child has heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose the problem.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Joan Oloff, DPM from Los Gatos Foot and Ankle . Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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

Poor circulation refers to reduced blood flow to certain areas of the body, often affecting the feet and legs. It can be caused by diabetes, peripheral artery disease, and varicose veins, which interfere with healthy blood movement. Symptoms include muscle cramps, pain, and cold hands or feet, along with slow healing of minor wounds. Risk factors include smoking, inactivity, obesity, and aging. Without proper care, circulation problems can increase the risk of serious foot complications. A podiatrist can assess blood flow, identify early warning signs, and recommend treatment to improve circulation and protect foot health. If you have symptoms of poor circulation in your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment remedies.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Joan Oloff, DPM of Los Gatos Foot and Ankle . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness 
• Numbness or cramping in the legs
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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