Items filtered by date: September 2025

Gout is a form of arthritis that often affects the joints in the feet, particularly the big toe. Symptoms typically appear suddenly, often at night, and include intense pain, swelling, redness, and warmth in the affected joint. The area may appear shiny and feel extremely tender, even to the touch of a bedsheet. Gout is caused by a buildup of uric acid in the blood, which forms sharp crystals in the joints. Common triggers include diets high in red meat or seafood, excessive alcohol, dehydration, and genetic factors. A podiatrist can diagnose gout through a physical exam, a review of symptoms, and possibly blood tests or joint fluid analysis. Treatment may involve anti-inflammatory medications, dietary changes, lifestyle advice, and, in some cases, medication to reduce uric acid levels. A podiatrist can also help manage recurring flare-ups and long-term joint health. If you are experiencing these symptoms, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate relief and treatment solutions.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Lesly Honore, MD, DPM from New York. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain that can make daily movement difficult. Gentle yoga poses can stretch and strengthen the feet to ease discomfort and promote healing. The upward salute lengthens the body while stretching the arches, and is done by standing up straight, pressing the heels into the ground, and raising your arms above your head. Chair pose builds strength in the legs and feet. This is done by turning your palms to face back, followed by sitting down as if you are sitting in a chair. High lunge, also known as Warrior I, improves flexibility in the calves and Achilles tendon, reducing strain on the plantar fascia. This is practiced by standing with one leg bent at the knee, while straightening the other in back, and raising both hands above your head. Such exercises can be a complement to professional treatment offered by a podiatrist in achieving long-term relief. If you are struggling with heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat symptoms of plantar fasciitis.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Lesly Honore, MD, DPM from New York. Our doctor 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 contact our office located in Hempstead, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.