While most people associate gout with the big toe, it can also affect the ankle joint. Gout causes intense pain, swelling, and stiffness due to the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joint. When uric acid levels in the blood rise, sharp crystals may form in the ankle, which can make walking and basic activities challenging. Risk factors for gout include consuming foods high in purines, such as red meat, organ meats, and certain seafood, as well as sugary drinks and alcohol, which can elevate uric acid levels. Ankle gout may flare up unpredictably, causing severe discomfort that can last for days or even weeks. A podiatrist can help to manage gout through specific measures. Certain medications can be prescribed that reduce inflammation and changes to diet and lifestyle choices may also be suggested. If not properly managed, gout-related inflammation can lead to lasting damage to the ankle joint. If your ankle is in severe pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Barry University Foot and Ankle Institute. 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 offices located in Miami, North Miami Beach, Miami Beach, and Tamarac, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Yoga can be a gentle and effective way to relieve the discomfort of plantar fasciitis. One beneficial pose is the upward salute, which stretches the entire body while lengthening the spine and opening the shoulders. The chair pose strengthens the legs and helps build stability, providing support to the feet. Incorporating the high lunge not only stretches the hip flexors but also engages the lower body, promoting flexibility in the feet and calves. Lastly, downward dog is excellent for stretching the calves and hamstrings while improving overall foot strength. Each of these poses encourages better alignment and flexibility, which can alleviate tension in the plantar fascia. Regular practice can enhance circulation and reduce inflammation, contributing to improved comfort and mobility for those affected by this condition. If you are suffering with plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can discuss relief strategies, which may include effective yoga stretches.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with one of our podiatrists from Barry University Foot and Ankle Institute. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

• Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
• Similar to the previous one, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
• Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
• Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising and ice and rest the foot. It is advised to then see a podiatrist for help.

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

Allowing babies to go barefoot offers numerous benefits that contribute to their overall development. When infants walk without shoes, they enhance their awareness of their surroundings, as their feet can feel different textures and temperatures. This sensory experience plays a vital role in brain development and spatial awareness. Furthermore, being barefoot encourages natural foot development, allowing the arches to form properly and strengthening the muscles and ligaments in the feet. As babies navigate different surfaces, they improve their coordination and agility, essential skills for later stages of physical activity. This freedom also fosters balance, helping them gain confidence as they explore their environment. Embracing the barefoot experience not only supports healthy foot growth but also nurtures a sense of exploration and movement that can positively influence their development. If your baby has any type of foot problem, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions and guide you on additional benefits of babies walking barefoot.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact one of our podiatrists of Barry University Foot and Ankle Institute. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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

Corns and calluses are thickened areas of skin that develop as a protective response to friction and pressure. Corns typically form on the toes and are small, often painful growths with a hard center. Calluses are larger and usually appear on the soles of the feet or palms, serving as a broader protective barrier. The primary causes of corns and calluses include poorly fitting footwear, repetitive activities, and abnormal foot mechanics. Wearing ill-fitting shoes can create pressure points that lead to corn formation, while continuous friction from walking or standing may result in calluses. Conditions such as bunions or hammertoes can worsen these issues. While corns and calluses serve a protective function, they can become uncomfortable and may require attention to prevent further complications. If you have pain from either corns or calluses, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief solutions.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of Barry University Foot and Ankle Institute. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

• Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
• Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
• Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Miami, North Miami Beach, Miami Beach, and Tamarac, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.