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Causes of and Risk Factors for Gout

Tuesday, 26 August 2025

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis that typically affects the feet, especially the big toe joint. It occurs when uric acid builds up in the blood and forms sharp crystals in the joints, often causing sudden, severe pain, swelling, and warmth. This buildup may result from the kidneys not eliminating enough uric acid or from consuming foods that are high in purines, such as red meat, organ meats, certain seafood, and alcohol. Risk factors for gout include being overweight, having a family history of gout, or living with kidney disease, diabetes, or heart disease. Gout tends to appear more often in men over 40, and in women after menopause. A podiatrist can assist by diagnosing gout through imaging or joint fluid analysis and offering foot-specific treatment strategies. If you are experiencing symptoms of gout, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and effective management tips.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Blake Zobell from Utah. 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 one of our offices located in Richfield and Ephraim, Utah . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Treatments for Nail Fungus

Tuesday, 19 August 2025

Dealing with toenail fungus can be more than just a cosmetic concern. It can affect your comfort and confidence. Symptoms often start subtly with discoloration, usually yellow or brown, and thickening of the nail. As the infection progresses, toenails may become brittle, crumbly, or even emit a foul odor. Beyond appearance, toenail fungus can cause discomfort. Nails might feel tender or sore, especially when wearing shoes or applying pressure. In severe cases, it can lead to difficulty walking or performing daily activities. Effective treatments range from mild antifungal creams to prescription medications or nail lacquers. Maintaining good foot hygiene, wearing breathable footwear, and avoiding shared pedicure tools can help prevent recurrence. If you have symptoms of toenail fungus, do not delay seeking professional advice. It is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose the infection and recommend the best course of treatment.

For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Blake Zobell of Utah. 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 contact one of our offices located in Richfield and Ephraim, Utah . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Neuropathy in the Feet of Older Adults

Tuesday, 12 August 2025

As people age, nerve health can decline, increasing the risk of neuropathy in the feet. This condition occurs when nerves are damaged, leading to sensations such as numbness, tingling, burning, or pain. In older adults, causes can include diabetes, poor circulation, certain medications, or underlying medical conditions. Neuropathy can make it harder to feel injuries, temperature changes, or pressure, raising the risk of unnoticed wounds or infections. Maintaining healthy blood sugar levels, staying active, and wearing well-fitting shoes can help protect nerve function. Regular foot checks are important to catch problems early. Moisturizing the skin, avoiding walking barefoot, and seeking prompt care for cuts or sores can prevent complications. If you experience changes in sensation, ongoing discomfort, or difficulty walking, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Dr. Blake Zobell from Utah. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

Numbness
Sensation loss
Prickling and tingling sensations
Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

Arthritis Can Cause Pain in the Feet and Ankles

Wednesday, 06 August 2025

If you are suffering from tenderness, pain, or stiffness in the joints of your feet or ankles, call us to schedule an appointment.

When Should Toddlers Start Wearing Shoes?

Tuesday, 05 August 2025

Toddlers should begin wearing shoes when they start walking outdoors to protect their feet from rough surfaces and potential injury. Indoors, bare feet or non-slip socks help develop balance and strength. The right shoes should be flexible, lightweight, and provide enough room for natural foot movement. A wide toe box, breathable material, and a firm but gentle sole are ideal. Wearing ill-fitting shoes can lead to discomfort or long-term foot issues. A podiatrist can assess your child’s foot development and offer guidance on proper footwear and growth milestones. If you are unsure about the right time or type of shoes for your toddler, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for personalized care and expert advice.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Dr. Blake Zobell of Utah. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Make sure their shoes fit properly
Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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