Gout is a type of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, often affecting the big toe. It occurs when the body produces too much uric acid or does not excrete enough through urine. Symptoms include sudden, intense pain, redness, swelling, and warmth in the affected joint, typically during the night. Gout attacks can feel excruciating, making even the lightest touch unbearable. Treatment for gout involves medications like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs called NSAIDs, colchicine, or corticosteroids to reduce pain and inflammation. Long-term management may include medications to lower uric acid levels and lifestyle changes like reducing alcohol intake and eating a purine-free diet. A podiatrist can help diagnose gout, manage flare-ups, and provide advice on footwear and exercises to reduce strain on affected joints. If you are experiencing symptoms of gout, it is suggested that you schedle an appointment with a podiatrist for effective treatment and management.
Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. James Kutchback from James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. 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
Risk Factors
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 offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Athlete's foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin on your feet, often between the toes, however, there is also a moccasin variety that affects the bottom of the feet. It is caused by dermatophytes, fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments, such as sweaty shoes or locker rooms. The condition is highly contagious and can spread through direct contact with infected surfaces or people. Common symptoms of athlete's foot include itching, burning, peeling, and redness. In more severe cases, the skin may crack, blister, or become painful. It can also spread to the toenails or other areas of the body if left untreated. Treatment typically involves antifungal creams or powders, which help eliminate the infection. Keeping your feet dry and wearing breathable shoes are also key to preventing reinfection. In stubborn cases, a podiatrist may prescribe stronger antifungal medications or recommend a more tailored treatment plan. If you are experiencing symptoms of athlete's foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. James Kutchback from James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story
Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.
Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Morton's neuroma is a condition that affects the nerves in the foot, typically between the third and fourth toes. It occurs when the tissue around a nerve thickens, leading to pain, numbness, or a sensation of a lump in the affected area. Symptoms may worsen when wearing tight shoes or high heels, as the pressure on the foot increases. Common causes include repetitive stress or irritation to the foot, from high-impact activities, poorly fitted footwear, or foot abnormalities like flat feet or high arches. To diagnose Morton's neuroma, a podiatrist will typically perform a physical examination, checking for tenderness or swelling between the toes. Imaging tests, such as an ultrasound or MRI scan, may also be used to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions. If you have pain in this area of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Dr. James Kutchback of James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.
Morton’s Neuroma
Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.
What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?
Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Toe walking is a common behavior observed in children, where they walk on their toes rather than with their feet flat on the ground. One of the primary causes of toe walking is habitual behavior, where children simply adopt this pattern without any underlying medical issue. However, in some cases, toe walking may be linked to sensory processing differences, where children may prefer the sensation of walking on their toes due to heightened or reduced sensitivity to touch. Another cause is tight calf muscles, which may restrict the ability to walk normally and lead to toe walking as a compensatory movement. Neurological conditions, such as cerebral palsy or other motor disorders, can also contribute to toe walking due to muscle weakness or coordination issues. In any case, if toe walking persists beyond early childhood, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can assess the cause and determine the most appropriate course of action.
Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Dr. James Kutchback of James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...
Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.
Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.
Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.
As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’.
As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.
Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.
Be watchful for any pain or injury.
Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.
Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Thick toenails, medically known as onychomycosis, is a fungal infection where the toenails become discolored, thickened, and brittle. The nails may appear yellow, white, or even brown, and can sometimes separate from the nail bed. This infection typically occurs after exposure to fungi that thrive in warm, damp environments, such as sweaty shoes or communal areas like swimming pools. Poor foot hygiene, a weakened immune system, or diabetes can also increase the risk of developing onychomycosis. Symptoms include thickened, misshapen nails, crumbling edges, and a foul odor. If left untreated, the infection can worsen, leading to pain and difficulty walking. A podiatrist is trained to diagnose and treat nail fungus effectively. Treatments may include antifungal medications, topical solutions, laser therapy, or in severe cases, nail removal. Your podiatrist will assess the severity of the infection and recommend the best course of treatment. If you are dealing with this issue, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.
For more information about treatment, contact Dr. James Kutchback of James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Toenail Fungus Treatment
Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.
Antifungals & Deterrence
Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.
Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.
Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Plantar fasciitis causes pain in the heel and bottom of the foot. It occurs when the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes, becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress. This condition often results in sharp pain, especially with the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest. The Windlass mechanism plays a key role in this condition. It refers to the natural process that occurs when the toes are dorsiflexed, or bent up, causing the plantar fascia to tighten and lift the arch of the foot. This action helps with walking and running but can aggravate plantar fasciitis if the tissue is overstressed. Over time, excessive strain on the plantar fascia can lead to inflammation and pain, making it difficult to walk or stand for long periods. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and effectively treat the problem.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. James Kutchback from James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
How Can It Be Treated?
While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Foot stress fractures occur when repeated stress or impact overwhelms the foot's bones, often from activities like running or jumping. A sudden increase in exercise intensity, duration, or frequency can place excessive strain on the bones, particularly if the body has not adjusted to the added workload. Changes in surface, such as moving from a soft running track to a hard sidewalk, may also trigger stress fractures. Wearing ill-fitting footwear that lacks proper support and cushioning can lead to uneven pressure distribution. Biomechanical issues, including bunions or improper gait, may force certain areas of the feet to bear more weight, which adds to the stress. Athletes, especially those involved in high-impact sports, are particularly vulnerable, but non-athletes engaging in prolonged walking or standing on hard or uneven surfaces can also develop stress fractures. A podiatrist can diagnose the injured foot using digital imaging and develop a treatment plan. If you experience foot pain after running, playing a sport or exercising, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to find out whether you may have developed stress fractures.
Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Dr. James Kutchback from James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.
Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle
Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use. The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.
What Are Stress Fractures?
Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:
Symptoms
Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Heel pain is often caused by excessive pressure, injury, or strain. The heel’s fatty cushion helps absorb impact during movement, but activities like running, jumping, or standing on hard surfaces can lead to pain. This is particularly true among older adults, pregnant women, and people who are overweight. Ill-fitting shoes and abnormal walking patterns can also contribute to heel pain. Plantar fasciitis, a common cause, occurs when the band of tissue along the sole becomes inflamed, often resulting in sharp pain under the heel. Heel spurs, which are bony growths on the heel bone, can develop from chronic strain and can be painful. In children, Sever’s disease is a frequent cause of heel pain due to stress on the heel bone's growth plate during physical activity. A podiatrist can evaluate your symptoms, identify the root cause, and provide effective treatment, including custom orthotics, supportive footwear, or other measures to alleviate pain and improve foot function. If you are experiencing heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to find out the cause, and receive the appropriate treatment.
Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Dr. James Kutchback of James Kutchback, DPM, ABLES, CWS-P. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Causes of Heel Pain
Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.
Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.
Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.
Why Might Heel Pain Occur?
Treatments
Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.
If you have any questions please contact our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.