Gout is a painful form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, most commonly the big toe. This condition can develop suddenly and is often triggered by dietary choices, genetics, or underlying health issues. Risk factors include cardiovascular disease, diabetes, diuretic use, obesity, and elevated triglyceride levels. Symptoms of gout include intense joint pain, redness, swelling, and warmth, often described as feeling like the toe is on fire. The joint may become so tender that even the weight of a bedsheet feels unbearable. A podiatrist plays a vital role in diagnosing and managing gout. Through physical examination, imaging, and lab tests, they can confirm the condition and offer relief through medication, dietary guidance, and preventive strategies to manage flare-ups and avoid joint damage. If you are dealing with this condition, it is suggested you make an appointment with a podiatrist for evaluation and treatment.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Bergen Foot & Ankle. 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 Fort Lee, NJ and Flushing, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Persistent toe discomfort can make even simple movements difficult. Wearing tight shoes, repetitive pressure, or underlying joint issues often lead to pain, swelling, or stiffness in the toes. Gently stretching the feet and choosing footwear with enough room for your toes can reduce irritation. Padding or silicone toe separators may ease friction and support natural alignment. Conditions such as hammertoes, arthritis, or nerve irritation may also be involved and require more specific care. Early attention helps prevent worsening of symptoms. If pain does not improve or begins to affect how you walk, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a complete evaluation and personalized treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Bergen Foot & Ankle. 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 feel free to contact our offices located in Fort Lee, NJ and Flushing, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Foot neuropathy is a condition that results from damage to the peripheral nerves in the lower extremities, leading to symptoms such as burning, tingling, numbness, or sharp pain in the feet. It can be caused by diabetes, alcohol abuse, infections, trauma, or exposure to certain toxins. Risk factors include poor blood sugar control, vitamin deficiencies, and underlying medical conditions, such as kidney disease or autoimmune disorders. The symptoms often begin gradually and may affect balance or increase the risk of falls and injury. A podiatrist plays an essential role in diagnosing the condition through physical exams and nerve testing. If you have symptoms of foot neuropathy, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist. This type of doctor  offers treatment plans that may include medication, lifestyle guidance, footwear recommendations, and regular monitoring to help reduce symptoms and prevent further nerve damage.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with one of our podiatrists  from Bergen Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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