Gout is a form of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, most commonly affecting the big toe. It leads to sudden attacks of intense pain, swelling, redness, and warmth around the affected area. These flare-ups can make it difficult to walk or wear shoes comfortably. Gout may be triggered by diet, dehydration, certain medications, or medical conditions that affect metabolism. A podiatrist can diagnose gout, relieve pain, and recommend lifestyle changes or medications to manage symptoms and prevent future episodes. If you have sudden joint pain in your big toe or swelling in your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Gabrielle Clark, DPM from LA Feet Foot & Ankle Center, Inc. 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 offices located in New Orleans, Metairie, and Slidell, LA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Wearing high heels regularly increases the height of the foot arch, shifting body weight forward and placing extra pressure on the toes and forefoot. Over time, this altered posture can cause changes in the musculoskeletal system, including calf muscle tightening, shortened Achilles tendons, and strain on the knees, hips, and lower back. These effects may lead to discomfort, instability, or long-term foot deformities. A podiatrist can assess alignment, recommend stretching and strengthening exercises, and suggest footwear modifications or custom orthotics to reduce strain while maintaining style and comfort. If you have developed foot pain from frequently wearing high heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an expert evaluation and personalized strategies to protect your foot health.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Gabrielle Clark, DPM from LA Feet Foot & Ankle Center, Inc. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in New Orleans, Metairie, and Slidell, LA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Pain across the top of the foot often develops from irritation of the extensor tendons, which run from the front of the ankle to the toes, and help lift them upward. Because these tendons sit close to the surface with little protective padding, they can become strained or inflamed from repeated friction, tight laces, or wearing shoes that lack adequate support. Activities that place stress on the tendons, such as running on uneven ground or climbing hills, may also increase discomfort. People with high arches or flat feet may be at a greater risk, as both conditions place additional pressure on the top of the foot. Symptoms include tenderness, swelling, and difficulty wearing shoes without pain. In some cases, bruising may be visible. A podiatrist can recommend proper footwear adjustments, prescribe orthotics, or discuss further treatment options, including surgery, if needed. If you have pain across the top of the foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Gabrielle Clark, DPM from LA Feet Foot & Ankle Center, Inc. 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 offices located in New Orleans, Metairie, and Slidell, LA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot warts, also known as plantar warts, are small growths that develop on the soles of the feet due to the human papillomavirus, or HPV. They often appear as rough, thickened areas of skin with tiny black dots, which are clotted blood vessels. Walking or standing can press the wart inward, causing discomfort or pain. These warts are contagious and can spread in moist environments such as locker rooms or around pools. Over-the-counter treatments may help mild cases, but persistent or painful warts often require professional care. A podiatrist can use safe and effective methods such as cryotherapy, laser therapy, or topical treatments to remove them while reducing the chance of recurrence. If you notice a growth on your foot that does not heal or causes pain, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Gabrielle Clark, DPM from LA Feet Foot & Ankle Center, Inc. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in New Orleans, Metairie, and Slidell, LA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.