Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream, which then forms sharp crystals inside the joints. One of the most common and painful locations for a gout attack is the big toe. Symptoms include sudden and intense pain, swelling, redness, warmth, and tenderness in the joint. The big toe is especially vulnerable because it is the farthest joint from the heart, which can reduce efficient circulation, and it tends to be cooler than the rest of the body. Uric acid crystals form more easily in colder temperatures, making this joint a frequent target. Without proper care, repeated gout attacks can lead to joint damage. If your big toe is painful, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose the cause and provide appropriate treatment.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Vrunda Dalal, DPM from Sole Focus Foot and Ankle. our doctor 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 Marlton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Swollen feet often occur with additional symptoms that help clarify what is happening. Bruising or unexplained bleeding may suggest injury or vascular concerns. A burning sensation can point to nerve irritation or inflammation. Changes in pulse strength, including a weak or absent pulse, may signal circulation problems. Some people notice difficulty moving the foot, ankle, or toes, along with stiffness or pain that limits range of motion. Swelling can also make standing or walking uncomfortable or unstable. Itching may occur as skin stretches, while lumps or nodules can form around joints or soft tissue. These combined signs provide important diagnostic clues. A podiatrist evaluates circulation, nerve response, joint function, and skin health to determine the cause. When swelling appears alongside these changes, it is suggested that prompt evaluation be sought by a podiatrist to help guide appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Vrunda Dalal, DPM of Sole Focus Foot and Ankle. our doctor 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 office located in Marlton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Toe pain around the metatarsophalangeal, or MTP, joint is a frequent reason patients seek podiatric care, as these joints play a major role in balance and push off during walking. Such toe pain may develop from overuse, injury, arthritis, or pressure from footwear. Common symptoms include aching or sharp pain, stiffness, and swelling, sometimes accompanied by redness, warmth, and limited motion. The joint may look enlarged or inflamed, and it can feel sore or burning, especially when standing, walking, or bending the toe. Over time, pain may interfere with daily activities and limit comfortable movement. A podiatrist can help by starting with a detailed medical history and physical examination, supported by imaging when needed, to identify the exact cause of the joint pain. Treatment often begins with footwear guidance, padding, or custom orthotics, and may progress to medications, injections, or corrective procedures when appropriate. If you have MTP joint pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Vrunda Dalal, DPM of Sole Focus Foot and Ankle. our doctor 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 Marlton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A diabetic foot exam by a podiatrist is an essential checkup to prevent complications, as diabetes can cause reduced blood flow and nerve damage in the feet. During the exam, the podiatrist carefully inspects the feet for any signs of cuts, blisters, ulcers, or fungal infections, as these can easily worsen if unnoticed. They will test the sensation in your feet using a small, thin monofilament or tuning fork to assess nerve function, identifying any numbness or decreased sensitivity. The podiatrist will also check your pulse and blood flow in the foot, as poor circulation can delay healing. They may evaluate foot structure, identifying issues like bunions or hammertoes that can increase the risk of sores. If you have diabetes, it is suggested that you have regular foot exams conducted by a podiatrist to help detect problems early, allowing for proper care and reducing the likelihood of serious complications, including infections and even amputations in severe cases.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Vrunda Dalal, DPM from Sole Focus Foot and Ankle. our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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