Gout is a painful form of arthritis that often targets the big toe. It strikes when uric acid builds up in the body and forms sharp crystals in the joints. The result is sudden, intense pain, redness, warmth, and swelling that can last for days. Even the touch of a sheet can feel unbearable during a flare-up. Treatment focuses on reducing pain and preventing future attacks. Anti-inflammatory medications are commonly used during a flare, and long-term care may involve lifestyle changes or medication to manage uric acid levels. Avoiding trigger foods, staying hydrated, and maintaining a healthy weight can make a big difference. Because gout can cause joint damage over time, managing it early is essential. If your foot pain comes on suddenly or keeps returning, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist to confirm the cause and create a plan to reduce your risk.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. 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 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 our offices located in Elmhurst Jackson Heights, Astoria, NY, and Rego Park, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Swollen feet can be uncomfortable and concerning. Common causes include standing or sitting for long periods, pregnancy, or wearing ill-fitting shoes. However, swelling may also be a sign of underlying medical conditions, such as heart failure, kidney disease, lymphedema, or venous insufficiency. Symptoms include puffiness, skin tightness, or difficulty walking. A podiatrist can assess the cause of the swelling with a thorough examination and help manage it with proper footwear, compression therapy, or referrals to other specialists, if needed. Early treatment is essential to prevent complications. If you are experiencing persistent or painful foot swelling, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer appropriate treatment solutions.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Footcare Now. Our doctors 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:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

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 contact our offices located in Elmhurst Jackson Heights, Astoria, NY, and Rego Park, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Toe pain can result from many causes, including injury, joint problems, nail issues, or pressure from shoes that do not fit properly. It may come on suddenly or develop gradually, depending on the source. Common reasons include bunions, hammertoes, ingrown nails, arthritis, or stress from overuse. The affected toe may appear swollen, stiff, or red, and walking can become difficult. Choosing supportive shoes with a wide toe box and avoiding high heels can ease pressure and resting the foot may help reduce discomfort. Stretching and gentle movement can improve flexibility if stiffness is a problem. In some cases, padding, orthotics, or splints may be recommended to protect the toe and promote healing. While many cases respond to simple care, pain that does not improve should be evaluated. If toe discomfort is limiting your mobility or continues to worsen, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Footcare Now. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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

A toe fracture is a break in one of the small bones of the toe, often caused by trauma such as stubbing the toe, dropping something heavy on it, or sports injuries. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking. The affected toe may appear crooked or misaligned. Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination and imaging tests like X-rays to confirm the extent and location of the break. A podiatrist can assess the injury and recommend appropriate care, which may include splinting, protective footwear, or, in some cases, surgery. If you suspect a broken toe, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist promptly to ensure proper healing and to avoid long-term complications.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Footcare Now. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Elmhurst Jackson Heights, Astoria, NY, and Rego Park, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.