Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis that develops when uric acid builds up in the blood and forms sharp crystals in the joints. The big toe is one of the most common locations for a gout attack due to its lower temperature and reduced circulation compared to other areas. Early signs of gout often begin suddenly and may include intense pain, swelling, redness, and warmth in the affected toe. The joint may become extremely tender, making it difficult to walk or wear shoes. These symptoms often appear during the night and can worsen quickly. Gout can be extremely painful, and may cause difficulty in completing daily activities. If you have symptoms of this condition, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer you relief, management and prevention tips.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Renee Rodriquez, DPM from Foot Clinic of South Texas. 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 Brownsville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Cracked heels, or heel fissures, occur when the skin on the bottom of the feet becomes excessively dry and splits under pressure. Initially, these cracks may be superficial, causing minimal discomfort. However, without proper care, heel fissures can deepen, leading to pain, bleeding, and an increased risk of infection. Factors contributing to cracked heels include prolonged standing, wearing open-back shoes, walking barefoot, obesity, and medical conditions such as diabetes. Symptoms often involve discomfort while standing or walking, itching, and visible flaking of the skin. To address this issue, a podiatrist can remove thickened skin, apply dressings to minimize skin movement, and recommend appropriate footwear to alleviate pressure on the heels. If you have painful heel fissures, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropirate treatment.​

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Renee Rodriquez, DPM from Foot Clinic of South Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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

Selecting the right shoes for a baby is essential for their comfort and foot development. The best time to introduce shoes is when the baby begins to walk outdoors, as they need protection from rough surfaces. Soft, flexible materials such as leather or breathable mesh allow natural movement and keep the feet comfortable. A proper fit is important to prevent discomfort, so shoes should have enough room for growth without being too loose. Supportive soles with a slight grip provide stability while allowing natural foot motion. Additionally, easy-to-fasten closures help keep the shoes secure while making them simple to put on and take off. It is vital that your child wears shoes that fit correctly while walking outside. If you would like more information or have questions about specific types of babies first shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide you with the knowledge you are seeking.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Renee Rodriquez, DPM of Foot Clinic of South Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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