Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, most commonly affecting the big toe. It mostly affects men because they tend to have higher uric acid levels throughout adulthood, while women are partly protected by estrogen until menopause. After menopause, women can also develop gout as uric acid levels rise. Symptoms include sudden intense joint pain, redness, swelling, warmth, and tenderness. Risk factors include obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, certain medications, and diets high in red meat or alcohol. A podiatrist can diagnose gout, relieve pain, and recommend treatment to prevent future attacks. If you have pain in your big toe, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Landon Bowerbank, DPM from Pioneer Foot and Ankle. 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 Lehi, UT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Morton’s neuroma is a thickening of nerve tissue between the toes that can cause burning pain, tingling, and the sensation of walking on a pebble. Treatment of Morton's neuroma depends on how irritated the nerve has become and how long symptoms have been present. A podiatrist evaluates foot structure, gait mechanics, and pressure distribution to identify the source of nerve compression. Treatment options include prescription orthotic devices designed to reduce forefoot pressure, padding techniques that separate the metatarsal bones, and anti-inflammatory or anesthetic injections to calm the nerve. When pain persists, advanced imaging can help guide further care, and a minor surgical procedure may be recommended to release pressure or remove a portion of the affected nerve. The goal of treatment is to restore comfortable walking while preventing long-term nerve damage or altered foot mechanics. If you have foot problems associated with Morton's neuroma, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and ongoing treatment.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Landon Bowerbank, DPM of Pioneer Foot and Ankle. 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?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

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 office located in Lehi, UT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete’s foot is a contagious fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet, particularly between the toes. It develops in warm, moist environments and is commonly caused by walking barefoot in public showers, locker rooms, or around pools. Risk factors include wearing tight or non-breathable shoes, excessive sweating, and compromised immune function. Symptoms often include itching, redness, peeling, burning, and cracking of the skin. Preventive measures include keeping feet clean and dry, changing socks regularly, wearing breathable shoes, and avoiding walking barefoot in shared spaces. A podiatrist can diagnose athlete’s foot, provide effective antifungal treatment, and recommend strategies to prevent recurrence. If you notice persistent itching or skin changes on your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat this condition, which may include prescribed medication.

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 Landon Bowerbank, DPM from Pioneer Foot and Ankle.  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

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

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 office located in Lehi, UT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how the body regulates blood sugar and can lead to reduced circulation and nerve damage in the feet. One serious complication is a diabetic foot ulcer, which is an open wound that may develop due to pressure, injury, or unnoticed trauma. Proper care is essential to prevent infection and further damage. Treatment often includes carefully cleaning and disinfecting the wound, performing debridement to remove unhealthy tissue, and taking pressure off the foot to allow healing. Ongoing monitoring is critical for recovery. A podiatrist plays a key role by managing wound care, addressing pressure points, and guiding prevention strategies. If you have diabetes or notice a wound on your foot that is not healing properly, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you manage this serious condition. 

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 Landon Bowerbank, DPM from Pioneer Foot and Ankle. 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 contact our office located in Lehi, UT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.