Gout is a form of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream, leading to crystal deposits in the joints. The big toe is commonly affected because it is more prone to temperature changes and slower circulation, which encourages crystal formation. Symptoms often appear suddenly and include intense pain, redness, swelling, and warmth in the affected joint. Causes include genetics, obesity, certain medications, and decreased kidney function that limits the body’s ability to remove uric acid. Risk factors include high blood pressure and degenerative arthritis, which can increase susceptibility.  A podiatrist can help by diagnosing gout, managing pain, and recommending lifestyle changes. If you have pain in your big toe and surrounding joints, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide a proper diagnosis and effective relief and treatment options.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Footcare Now. Our doctors 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 offices located in Elmhurst Jackson Heights, Astoria, Rego Park, and Forest Hills, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The Brostrom-Gould technique is a surgical procedure used to repair and stabilize the lateral or outer ankle ligaments after chronic instability or repeated sprains. It is commonly recommended when ligaments have become stretched or torn due to injuries such as ankle sprains, sports trauma, or improper healing. Risk factors include high-impact activities, weak ankle support, and a history of recurrent injuries. During the procedure, the damaged ligaments are tightened and reinforced to restore proper alignment and function of the ankle joint. This helps improve stability, reduce pain, and prevent future injuries. A podiatrist can evaluate ankle instability, determine if this procedure is appropriate, and guide recovery. If you have chronic ankle instability, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if this procedure will help you, explain the benefits, and address any concerns you may have about this form of treatment.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Footcare Now. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Elmhurst Jackson Heights, Astoria, Rego Park, and Forest Hills, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Pain in the ball of the foot, also known as metatarsalgia, causes discomfort beneath the toes where weight is concentrated while walking. The pain may feel sharp, burning, or like stepping on a small object, and it often worsens with activity or prolonged standing. Some patients notice swelling, callus formation, or increased sensitivity in the area. Causes include high-impact activities, improper footwear, high heels, foot shape, or conditions such as nerve irritation or stress on the metatarsal bones. The area may look normal or slightly inflamed but often feels tender to pressure. A podiatrist can assess foot structure, gait, and pressure points to determine the source of pain and may use imaging if needed. Treatment typically includes supportive footwear, cushioning, custom orthotics, and targeted exercises to relieve pressure. If you have pain in the ball of your foot, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Footcare Now. Our doctors 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 offices located in Elmhurst Jackson Heights, Astoria, Rego Park, and Forest Hills, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Walking shoes and running shoes are built differently to match specific movement patterns and impact levels. Walking shoes often feature a flexible upper, stable midsole, and durable outsole that supports a smooth heel-to-toe motion. Running shoes typically include enhanced cushioning to absorb repeated impact and a more responsive midsole for forward propulsion. Shoe stability is important in both types, and proper fit should include checking for heel slippage and allowing enough toe room. Wearing the correct footwear may help prevent painful foot conditions like plantar fasciitis. A podiatrist can evaluate gait, recommend proper shoes, and provide custom orthotics. If you are experiencing foot pain after walking or running, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot and ankle conditions and guide you on the correct shoes to wear for your desired activity. 

If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Footcare Now. Our doctors 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.

• Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
• Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
• Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Elmhurst Jackson Heights, Astoria, Rego Park, and Forest Hills, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.