Gout, a form of arthritis caused by uric acid buildup in the joints, can be influenced by temperature and humidity. Cold temperatures may trigger gout attacks by causing uric acid to crystallize in the joints, leading to sudden pain and inflammation. High humidity can contribute to dehydration, which reduces the body’s ability to flush out uric acid, increasing the risk of flare-ups. Managing gout involves staying hydrated, maintaining a balanced diet, and avoiding triggers like alcohol and purine-rich foods. Wearing warm socks in cold weather and staying cool in hot, humid conditions can help prevent attacks. A podiatrist can help by recommending footwear and insulation strategies to protect joints from cold exposure. They may also provide guidance on proper hydration and lifestyle adjustments to minimize the impact of humidity. If gout affects your mobility or causes frequent flare-ups, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you improve your comfort and overall foot health.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Richard DiMario from Maine. 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 York, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Trail running shoes are designed for off-road running, offering essential features to enhance performance and comfort. One key feature is waterproofing, which helps keep feet dry in wet conditions, preventing discomfort and blisters during rainy runs or when crossing streams. For runners with wider feet, wide-fit trail running shoes provide extra space, ensuring a more comfortable fit and reducing pressure on the toes. Mud shoes are another important type of trail running shoe, equipped with specialized traction to handle slippery and muddy trails. These shoes typically have deeper treads that provide better grip and stability, preventing slips. Whether running through wet terrain, navigating rocky paths, or tackling muddy routes, the right trail running shoes ensure durability, support, and comfort for every adventure. If you have sustained a foot injury while trail running, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief tips, and guide you on the correct shoes to wear.
If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact Dr. Richard DiMario from Maine. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type
To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in York, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!
Plantar warts, or verrucas, are common viral skin growths caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV. They often appear on the soles of the feet, especially in children, athletes, and those with weakened immune systems. The virus thrives in warm, moist environments like near pools, and in locker rooms and communal showers, spreading through direct contact. These warts may look like thick, rough calluses with tiny black dots, which are clotted blood vessels and can cause pain when walking. Over time, they may spread or cluster into mosaic warts. Stubborn plantar warts can persist. If you or your child has a plantar wart, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist who can provide prescription medications, laser therapy, or minor surgical removal.
Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Richard DiMario from Maine. 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
Treatment
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 office located in York, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Foot and ankle swelling can occur for various reasons, often related to lifestyle, health conditions, or prolonged periods of immobility. One common cause is being overweight, as excess body weight places additional pressure on the feet and ankles, leading to fluid retention and swelling. Age is another factor, as older individuals may experience reduced circulation, which can contribute to swelling in the lower extremities. Leg infections can also cause swelling, as the body’s immune response leads to inflammation in the affected areas. Prolonged periods of immobility, such as on long airplane flights, can reduce circulation and lead to fluid buildup in the feet and ankles. A sedentary lifestyle, in which an individual remains seated or inactive for long stretches, can further cause swelling by preventing proper blood flow. If you have swollen feet or ankles, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer appropriate treatment solutions.
Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Richard DiMario of Maine. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:
Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet.
Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in York, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Heel pain in children often stems from conditions like Sever’s disease, Achilles tendinitis, or plantar fasciitis. Sever’s disease, which typically affects active children aged eight to 14, results from repetitive stress on the growth plate of the heel during activities like running or jumping. Symptoms include pain at the back of the heel and difficulty walking. Achilles tendinitis occurs when the tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel becomes inflamed, often due to a sudden increase in activity or repetitive motions like jumping or running. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and stiffness in the back of the foot. Plantar fasciitis, though less common among children, involves irritation of the thick tissue along the bottom of the foot. It may be due to overuse or poor footwear support. A podiatrist can evaluate the cause of your child’s heel pain, provide a diagnosis, and offer effective treatment options. If your child complains of heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.
Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Dr. Richard DiMario of Maine. 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 office located in York, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Hammertoe is a condition where one or more of the smaller toes develop an abnormal bend at the middle joint, often due to muscle imbalance. Wearing tight footwear and high heels are common causes of hammertoes, as they force the toes into unnatural positions, which can shorten tendons over time. Women are more frequently susceptible to hammertoe formation, largely due to footwear choices, but anyone with a history of diabetes, arthritis, or prior foot injuries is also at greater risk. Symptoms of hammertoe include the formation of calluses, pain during movement, and impaired balance or mobility. A podiatrist can diagnose hammertoe by evaluating the flexibility of the affected toe joint and determining whether custom orthotics or footwear modifications may relieve discomfort. For fixed joints or persistent pain, surgery might be needed to realign the toe. If you have problems with a hammertoe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Dr. Richard DiMario of Maine. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.
Hammertoe
Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.
Symptoms
Risk Factors
Treatment
If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in York, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
If you are suffering from tenderness, pain, or stiffness in the joints of your feet or ankles, call us to schedule an appointment.
Diabetic wounds, particularly on the feet, are a serious concern for people with diabetes due to reduced blood flow and nerve damage. These wounds can develop from minor cuts, blisters, or pressure sores and may not heal properly due to poor circulation and neuropathy. Additionally, sometimes diabetic wounds do not engage the immune cells necessary for normal wound healing. Symptoms include redness, swelling, pain, or the presence of an open sore that does not heal over time. In some cases, the wound may become infected, causing increased pain, warmth, or drainage. The main causes of diabetic wounds include high blood sugar, which affects circulation and immune response, as well as nerve damage that reduces sensitivity to pain. Treatment typically involves thorough cleaning, wound dressings, and possibly antibiotics for infection. A podiatrist can provide specialized care, including debridement, tips on custom footwear, and guidance on managing blood sugar to prevent further complications. If you have diabetes and have developed a foot wound, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.
Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Dr. Richard DiMario from Maine. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Wound Care?
Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic.
What Is the Importance of Wound Care?
While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.
How to Care for Wounds
The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in York, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Blisters on the feet are small, fluid-filled pockets that form between the layers of skin, typically caused by friction, pressure, or burns. Symptoms include pain, redness, swelling, and the appearance of a raised bubble on the skin. Blisters often occur from wearing tight shoes, ill-fitting socks, or prolonged walking or running. The most common causes are friction from new shoes or repetitive motion, such as running or hiking. Blisters can also result from hot weather, causing sweaty feet, or from burns or allergic reactions. Treatment usually involves protecting the blister with a bandage or blister pad, keeping it clean and dry, and avoiding further friction. In some cases, a podiatrist may drain the blister in a sterile environment to prevent infection or offer advice on better footwear. If blisters are recurrent or cause significant pain, a podiatrist can recommend customized solutions to prevent them. For this reason, if you have developed a foot blister, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.
Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact Dr. Richard DiMario of Maine. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Foot Blisters
Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.
What Are Foot Blisters?
A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.
Symptoms
(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)
Prevention & Treatment
In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in York, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Richard DiMario, DPM - Default