Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, often affecting the big toe. It can develop suddenly, causing intense pain, redness, warmth, and swelling in the affected joint. Causes include high levels of uric acid in the blood, which may result from eating certain foods, dehydration, or kidney problems. Risk factors include obesity, high blood pressure, family history, and excessive alcohol intake. A podiatrist can diagnose gout through a physical examination and testing, then provide relief through medications, lifestyle guidance, and ongoing management. If you are experiencing sudden joint pain in your foot or ankle, it is suggested that you promptly visit a podiatrist who can help you manage this painful condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Tupper from Coshocton Foot Health Center. 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 Coshocton, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Bunions are bony bumps that form at the base of the big toe, causing the joint to stick out as the toe shifts inward. They often result from genetics, wearing tight or narrow shoes, flat feet, or arthritis. Bunions are more common in women, likely due to fashion footwear like high heels and pointed shoes. Over time, the misalignment worsens, leading to pain and inflammation. Symptoms include a visible bump on the side of the foot, swelling, redness, soreness, and limited movement of the big toe. It may feel like a dull, aching pain that worsens with walking or wearing certain shoes. A podiatrist may suggest shoe modifications, padding, custom orthotics, anti-inflammatory medications, or targeted exercises. In severe cases, surgery, called a bunionectomy, may be necessary to realign the toe joint.  If you are dealing with a painful bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Dr. Tupper of Coshocton Foot Health Center. 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?

Podiatrists 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 provider.

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 Coshocton, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Achilles tendinosis is a chronic condition that affects the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. Unlike tendonitis, which involves inflammation, tendinosis is a long-term degeneration of the tendon caused by repetitive stress, poor healing, or aging. Common in runners, athletes, and people who suddenly increase physical activity, it develops gradually. Symptoms include stiffness, thickening of the tendon, and a dull or burning pain in the back of the heel, especially during or after activity. Beyond typical discomfort, you may feel nodules or lumps along the tendon and experience decreased strength or flexibility in the ankle. A podiatrist can assess the extent of damage through a physical exam and imaging. They offer effective treatments such as targeted exercises and custom orthotics. Addressing tendinosis early can prevent rupture and restore proper function. If you have this condition, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnose and effective treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Tupper of Coshocton Foot Health Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Coshocton, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, occur when the arches of the feet collapse, causing the entire sole to make contact with the ground. This condition can appear from birth or develop over time due to aging, injury, obesity, or medical conditions such as arthritis. Symptoms may include foot pain, swelling, fatigue, or discomfort in the ankles, knees, or lower back. Some people with flat feet may experience difficulty standing for long periods or walking without strain. A podiatrist can evaluate the structure and function of the feet, provide customized orthotics for support, recommend strengthening exercises, and address related complications. If you were born with flat feet, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can address existing foot discomfort and help you manage your foot health.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. Tupper from Coshocton Foot Health Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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