Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by the buildup of urate crystals in the joints. These crystals form when uric acid levels in the body become elevated, leading to sudden and painful flare-ups. The big toe is commonly affected because of stress and lower temperature in the joint. Risk factors include male gender, alcohol intake, certain diets, and underlying health conditions. Symptoms include severe pain in the big toe, swelling, redness, and tenderness in the foot. The discomfort can appear quickly and limit movement. A podiatrist can help manage symptoms, provide guidance on lifestyle changes, and recommend treatments to reduce inflammation. If you have symptoms of gout, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer relief and management tips for this painful condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Montgomery Foot Care Specialists. 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 office located in Montgomery, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Cracked heels occur when the skin on the heels becomes dry, thick, and hardened, eventually splitting under pressure. This often develops from standing or walking on hard surfaces for long periods, which places extra stress on the heel. Being overweight can also increase pressure and contribute to skin breakdown. Symptoms include rough skin, visible cracks, and discomfort while walking. Risk factors include poor hydration, lack of foot care, and wearing open back shoes that do not provide support. A podiatrist can remove thickened skin, recommend moisturizing treatments, and provide guidance to prevent worsening of the condition. If you have developed painful cracked heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat this problem.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Montgomery Foot Care Specialists. our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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

Hallux limitus and hallux rigidus are conditions that affect movement in the joint at the base of the big toe. Hallux limitus usually begins with reduced flexibility, while hallux rigidus develops when the joint becomes severely stiff and painful. Many people notice discomfort while walking, bending the toe, climbing stairs, or pushing off during movement. Swelling, aching, and a bump on the top of the joint may also appear as the condition progresses. Over time, cartilage inside the joint can wear down, leading to inflammation and bone changes that make motion more difficult. Some patients change the way they walk to avoid pain, which can place added strain on the feet, knees, hips, or lower back. A podiatrist can evaluate joint function, order imaging studies, and recommend treatments such as wearing supportive footwear, custom orthotics, anti-inflammatory care, or surgery, when necessary. It is strongly suggested that individuals with persistent big toe stiffness or pain visit a podiatrist for proper treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Montgomery Foot Care Specialists. 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 office located in Montgomery, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is caused by compression of a nerve that runs along the inside of the ankle, leading to discomfort in the foot. Common causes include flat feet or fallen arches, swelling from an ankle sprain, and conditions like arthritis or diabetes that increase pressure in the area. Symptoms include tingling, burning, numbness, or shooting pain that can worsen with activity. Risk factors include poor foot structure, inflammation, and repetitive stress. Wearing compression socks may help reduce swelling and provide support, which can ease symptoms for some individuals. A podiatrist can evaluate the condition, recommend treatments, and address underlying causes. If you have any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact one of our podiatrists of Montgomery Foot Care Specialists. our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Montgomery, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.