Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. It often affects the big toe because this joint is more prone to cooler temperatures and stress, which can encourage crystal formation. Symptoms include sudden intense pain, redness, swelling, and warmth in the affected area. Flare-ups can occur suddenly and may limit movement. Risk factors include a diet high in purines, dehydration, certain medications, and underlying health conditions. A podiatrist can help manage symptoms, provide guidance on lifestyle changes, and recommend treatments to reduce inflammation and prevent future attacks. Gout can be painful and may impact daily activities. If you have had one or more gout attacks, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you to manage this painful condition.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Ocotillo Foot and Ankle Centers. 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 Chandler, and Phoenix, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Two tiny bones under the big toe joint, called sesamoids, help the foot handle pressure while walking and running. When these bones or the surrounding tissue become irritated, inflammation can develop. This often causes pain beneath the base of the big toe, especially when walking, standing for long periods of time, or wearing thin-soled or high-heeled shoes. The area may feel swollen, warm, or tender, and bending the big toe can make the pain worse. Repeated stress from dancing, jogging, or wearing poor-fitting shoes often leads to this problem. A podiatrist can examine the foot, check for swelling, and order X-rays to rule out a fracture or arthritis. Treatment of sesamoiditis includes custom orthotics, offloading pads that reduce pressure, and supportive shoes with thicker soles. Pain also can be relieved with anti-inflammatory medicine taken orally and injections to numb the painful area. If you have pain beneath the big toe joint, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact one of our podiatrists of Ocotillo Foot and Ankle Centers. Our doctors will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

• Sudden increase in activity
• Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
• Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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

Foot pain is a common problem that can affect people of all ages. It may feel like aching, sharp discomfort, burning, or stiffness, and it can make standing or walking difficult. Because the feet carry your body weight every day, even small issues can turn into bigger problems over time. There are several common causes of foot pain. Overuse from long periods of standing, walking, or exercise can strain muscles and joints. Wearing tight or unsupportive shoes can lead to problems like bunions or heel pain. Injuries such as sprains or small fractures may also be responsible. In some cases, conditions like arthritis or nerve irritation can cause ongoing discomfort. Paying attention to your footwear, activity level, and early symptoms can help prevent worsening pain. If your foot discomfort does not improve, it is suggested that you seek care from a podiatrist to find the cause and get the right treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Ocotillo Foot and Ankle Centers. 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 Chandler, and Phoenix, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Fungal toenail infections develop when fungi enter through small cracks in the nail, causing thickened, discolored, and brittle nails. These infections often return because fungi thrive in warm, moist environments like sweaty shoes and public spaces. Reinfection can also happen if treatment is stopped too soon or shoes are not properly disinfected. Beyond over-the-counter and prescription medications, a podiatrist can provide advanced care, including professional nail debridement to reduce thickness, stronger topical treatments, oral antifungal therapy, and, in some cases, laser treatment to target the infection. Regular monitoring helps ensure the infection is fully cleared. Preventive steps like keeping feet dry, wearing breathable shoes, and avoiding barefoot exposure are essential. If the infection continues or worsens, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for comprehensive treatment.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Ocotillo Foot and Ankle Centers. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Chandler, and Phoenix, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.