Millions of Americans experience foot pain at one time or another. Feet are important because they are the foundation that holds the body upright. Those who are suffering with painful feet should see a practitioner of Podiatry in Racine WI. Podiatrists are medical doctors that choose to specialize in conditions of the foot and ankle.
Gout
Anyone who experiences gout knows what awful pain is really about. Gout is a form of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the body. Uric acid causes crystals to develop in the blood and the result is irritation and inflammation of certain joints. These same crystals may show up as kidney stones in some.
Indeed, experts say 1 in 200 people battle gout which used to be called “the rich man’s disease.” Years ago, gout was thought to result from eating rich foods. Today, practitioners of podiatry in Racine WI recommend sufferers eat a healthy diet, avoid alcohol and control their weight. Patients are generally treated with anti-inflammatories.
Diabetic Feet
Diabetes is a chronic illness which causes poor blood flow in the extremities. Diabetics should have their feet checked by a podiatrist regularly. Neuropathy or a loss of sensation in the toes is often caused by diabetes. The severity of this condition is based on how how long one has been a diabetic and how controlled the condition is.
Poor blood flow in the feet means the patient loses some of the natural ability to heal. Therefore, diabetics should not cut their own toe-nails. Further, they should see the podiatrist if any sores develop on the feet. Sores may not heal and the patient is at risk for serious infections. Those with serious infections may have a foot or part of the leg amputated.
Bunions
Bunions are a condition of the big toe wherein the toe abnormally points inward. The result is a bony growth on the side of the foot. This bony growth gets inflamed and becomes painful when people wear the wrong shoes. Shoes should be loose and comfortable, not tight. In fact, the condition is often blamed on wearing shoes with a high heel. Rather, experts suggest alternating between flats and high heels. Those who are bothered by foot problems should contact the Great Lakes Foot & Ankle Centers
