Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis that often affects the feet, especially the big toe. It is caused by a buildup of uric acid in the blood, which forms sharp crystals in the joints. Common triggers include a diet high in purines, alcohol consumption, obesity, and certain medications or health conditions. Symptoms typically appear suddenly and may include intense pain, swelling, and warmth in the affected joint. The pain can be severe enough to wake someone from sleep, and may make walking or wearing shoes difficult. Visually, the joint may appear inflamed and extremely tender. A podiatrist can help diagnose gout through a physical examination, medical history, and possibly a fluid or blood test. Treatment options may include anti-inflammatory medications, dietary guidance, and long-term management strategies to prevent future flare-ups. A podiatrist can also help monitor joint health and manage ongoing discomfort. If you are dealing with gout, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to properly manage and treat this condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Ankita Patel, DPM from All Pro 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 Swedesboro, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Pain in the ball of the foot occurs when the area between the toes and the long bones of the feet is placed under too much pressure. This part of the foot absorbs the impact of walking and running, so when the bones and joints located here do not line up properly, discomfort can follow. Conditions like arthritis can cause swelling and stiffness in these joints, while toe deformities such as hammer toes or bunions may increase strain. As people age, the natural fat pad that cushions the ball of the foot often becomes thinner, leaving less protection against pressure. Repetitive activities such as jogging, playing sports, or even long hours of standing can make the pain worse. Wearing shoes that lack adequate support, like high heels or flip-flops, may also add stress to this area. A podiatrist can examine the foot, prescribe custom orthotics to reduce pressure, and provide surgery, if needed. If you have pain in the ball of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Ankita Patel, DPM from All Pro Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Bunions are bony bumps that form at the base of the big toe, and women are more likely to develop them due to footwear choices and genetic factors. Narrow or high-heeled shoes with a pointed toe box can place excess pressure on the front of the foot, leading to misalignment over time. Symptoms include pain, swelling, redness, and difficulty wearing certain shoes. Risk factors include a family history of bunions, flat feet, and conditions such as like arthritis. A podiatrist can provide relief through customized footwear advice, orthotics, and, when necessary, surgical correction. If you are experiencing discomfort from bunions, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and management tips.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Ankita Patel, DPM of All Pro Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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