Gout is a painful type of arthritis that commonly affects the feet, most often the big toe. It can cause intense swelling, redness, and tenderness. Studies suggest that gout and kidney disease are closely linked, as both involve high levels of uric acid in the body. When kidney function declines, uric acid may not be removed efficiently. This allows crystals to build up in the joints of the feet and ankles, leading to excruciating flare-ups. Recurrent gout attacks may also increase the likelihood of kidney complications over time. Shared risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity can raise the chances of developing both conditions. A podiatrist can conduct tests to see whether foot pain is caused by gout. Treatment can help to manage joint damage, decrease discomfort, and preserve mobility in the feet and ankles. If you have symptoms of gout, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Christopher Murphy, DPM from Murphy Foot and Ankle Medicine and Surgery. Our practitioner 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 Edgewater Port Orange . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Morton’s neuroma is a painful condition that affects nerves in the feet, most commonly between the third and fourth toes. It occurs when the nerve becomes thickened or compressed, often due to repetitive pressure or irritation. Causes include wearing tight or high heeled shoes, engaging in high impact sports, or abnormal foot mechanics. Symptoms typically involve sharp or burning pain in the ball of the foot, tingling, numbness, or a feeling of a pebble under the foot. Risk factors include foot deformities, repetitive activity, and wearing improper footwear. A podiatrist can help by diagnosing the condition, providing custom orthotics, recommending footwear modifications, and offering noninvasive treatments to reduce pain. If you have pain between your toes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Christopher Murphy, DPM of Murphy Foot and Ankle Medicine and Surgery. Our practitioner will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

Arthritis in the feet and ankles can make even simple steps feel difficult. Stiffness may limit motion in the joints, while swelling and tenderness can create ongoing discomfort. As the protective cartilage wears down, bones may rub together and lead to further pain. The changes often affect balance and endurance, making long walks or standing for extended periods of time challenging. Shoes that once felt comfortable may no longer provide enough support, and uneven pressure on the foot can increase fatigue. Walking aids or custom orthotics are sometimes needed to reduce strain and improve stability. Gentle activity, however, often helps keep joints moving and prevents further stiffness. Since arthritis affects each person differently, professional guidance from a podiatrist can make a significant difference. If walking is becoming painful due to arthritis, it is suggested that you visit this type of doctor for effective relief and management tips. 

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Christopher Murphy, DPM from Murphy Foot and Ankle Medicine and Surgery. Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Edgewater Port Orange . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Hammertoe and mallet toe are deformities that affect the joints of the toes, causing them to bend abnormally. Hammertoe involves a bend in the middle joint, while mallet toe affects the joint closest to the tip. These conditions are often caused by muscle imbalance, arthritis, trauma, or wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes. Symptoms include pain, stiffness, corns or calluses, and difficulty in moving the toe. The affected toe may appear bent downward and feel sore when walking or wearing shoes. A podiatrist can diagnose hammertoe or mallet toe through a physical examination and imaging tests, such as X-rays. Treatment options vary based on severity, and may include custom orthotics, shoe modifications, or splinting. In more advanced cases, surgical correction may be necessary to realign the joint. Early intervention can prevent the condition from worsening. If you notice changes in the shape or flexibility of your toes, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat hammertoe.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Christopher Murphy, DPM of Murphy Foot and Ankle Medicine and Surgery. Our practitioner will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

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