Gout is a painful form of arthritis that often affects the big toe, though it can strike other joints in the feet and ankles. It tends to occur more commonly in men over 40 and in women after menopause. Gout develops when uric acid builds up in the bloodstream and forms sharp crystals in the joints. These crystals cause sudden and intense pain, redness, swelling, and warmth that may make even a bedsheet feel unbearable against the skin. The affected joint often appears shiny and inflamed, and attacks can come on suddenly, sometimes overnight. A podiatrist can help by accurately diagnosing gout through examination, imaging, and lab testing. Treatments include medication to reduce pain and inflammation, dietary guidance, and strategies to prevent future flare ups. It is suggested that if you experience symptoms of gout, you make an appointment with a podiatrist for professional care and relief.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Bryan Sullivan, DPM from Mississippi Foot Center . 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 our office located in Jackson, MS . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Pain in the ball of the foot, also known as metatarsalgia, occurs when the tissues in this area become irritated or strained. This discomfort can develop from a sprain, Morton’s neuroma, bursitis, arthritis, or a bunion that changes pressure on the front of the foot. People may feel aching, burning, or sharp sensations that worsen when walking or standing. These issues often result from improper footwear, high impact activity, or changes in foot structure. A podiatrist can identify the exact cause, reduce inflammation, improve foot alignment, and recommend supportive footwear or custom inserts to ease pressure. If you have ongoing pain in the ball of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine the cause and offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Bryan Sullivan, DPM from Mississippi Foot Center . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Athlete’s foot is more than an itch. It is a stubborn skin infection that thrives in warm, damp places like shoes, showers, and gyms. It often begins between the toes as peeling or redness, but can spread to the soles and nails, if ignored. Beyond discomfort, untreated athlete’s foot can lead to cracked skin that allows bacteria to enter, causing deeper infections. Modern treatments target both the surface fungus and the environment it loves, using topical or oral medications and moisture-control strategies to prevent recurrence. Clean, dry socks and breathable shoes make a real difference in keeping feet healthy. If your feet continue to itch, flake, or burn despite over-the-counter care, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a tailored treatment plan and relief that lasts.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Bryan Sullivan, DPM from Mississippi Foot Center .  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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