Elevated uric acid levels in the bloodstream may lead to a painful condition that is known as gout. It typically affects the joints in the big toe, and symptoms generally consist of swelling, redness, and severe pain and discomfort. It can occur as a result of crystals that form and lodge in the joints, which is caused by eating foods that have high purine levels. These foods can include red meat, shellfish, and excess amounts of alcohol. After a proper diagnosis is performed, which can consist of extracting fluid from the affected joint that contains the crystals, proper treatment can begin. This can include taking medication which can lower uric acid levels. There are methods that can be implemented which may prevent gout attacks from occurring. It is beneficial to incorporate healthy eating habits into your daily routine, and limiting the amount of alcohol that is consumed. If you have frequent gout attacks, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can treat this condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Thong V. Truong from California. 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 office located in Chico, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A sesamoid is a bone that is embedded in a tendon. They are found in several joints in the body. In the foot, they are located in the ball, just beneath the joint of the big toe. The sesamoid bone absorbs all of the weight put on the ball of the foot when walking, running and jumping. People with high arches and frequent wearers of high heels are at an increased risk for developing sesamoid problems. Injuries to this bone stem from activities requiring increased pressure on the ball of the foot. There are different types of sesamoid injuries that can occur such as turf toe, fracture of the bone and sesamoiditis, which is an overuse injury. Nonsurgical treatments for these sesamoid injuries include physical therapy, steroid injections, custom orthotics and oral medications such as ibuprofen to help relieve pain and inflammation. Surgery is only required if the sesamoid injuries fail to respond to nonsurgical treatment. If you are dealing with a sesamoid injury, it is encouraged to see a podiatrist for the best treatment option.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Dr. Thong V. Truong of California. Our doctor will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

• Sudden increase in activity
• Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
• Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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

A large bony bump on the side of the big toe is referred to as a bunion. It can occur as a result of genetic factors, and from shoes that are worn which do not fit correctly. There may be inadequate room for the toes to move freely in, and this may cause the big toe to gravitate to the toe next to it. There are common symptoms that are often associated with bunions, including red and hardened skin over the affected toe, and it may be difficult to move and to wear shoes. Mild relief can be found when larger shoes are worn, and it may be helpful to wear a protective pad on top of the toe. For severe bunions, surgery could be a successful treatment option for permanent removal. If you are afflicted with a bunion, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly manage this condition.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Dr. Thong V. Truong of California. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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

A toenail fungus is considered to be an infection of the nails. Common symptoms that are often associated with this condition can include noticeable discoloration of the toenails, and they may appear thick. Additionally, many patients see their nails beginning to crack, and this can cause an unsightly appearance. This type of fungus is known to be contagious, and typically lives and thrives in warm and moist environments. These often include public swimming pools and surrounding areas, shower room floors, and locker rooms. The fungus can enter through tiny cracks in the skin, and the toenails can gradually become affected. Patients who are diabetic or have a weakened immune system may be more likely to contract this type of fungus. There are methods that can be implemented which may help to prevent the fungus from entering the body. These include wearing appropriate shoes while in public areas, and avoiding sharing shoes, socks, or nail trimmers. If you have toenail fungus, please consult with a podiatrist who can offer proper treatment options.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Thong V. Truong of California. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

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