Gout can cause sudden, intense pain in a joint, and the big toe is one of the most frequent areas affected. The condition develops when uric acid builds up in the body and forms tiny crystals inside a joint. These crystals can trigger swelling, redness, and strong tenderness. A gout flare can begin quickly, sometimes reaching its highest level of pain within a day. Gout can also affect the ankle, midfoot, or other joints, making foot pain difficult to identify by symptoms alone. Because several foot problems can cause similar symptoms, a careful evaluation is important.

A podiatrist can assess the painful area and look for signs that fit gout. The evaluation can include a review of symptoms, a physical examination, and testing when the diagnosis is unclear. A blood test can measure urate, which is the form of uric acid found in the blood. However, a normal urate level does not always rule out gout during a flare. In some cases, fluid from the affected joint can be examined for crystals. Imaging tests can also help identify crystal buildup or rule out other causes of joint pain. These steps help guide an appropriate treatment plan and help separate gout from other causes of sudden joint pain.

Treatment for gout focuses on controlling painful flares and lowering the chance of future attacks. A podiatrist can help identify foot and ankle problems related to gout and coordinate care that fits the patient’s needs. Treatment can involve medicines that reduce inflammation during a flare. Long-term care can also involve medicines that lower uric acid and reduce crystal buildup. Managing gout is important because repeated flares can damage joints and lead to firm lumps called tophi, which are collections of urate crystals under the skin. If you have symptoms of gout, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this painful condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Anas Khoury, DPM from North Eastern Foot & Ankle Specialists. 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 Passaic, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot orthotics are widely used by long-distance runners to improve comfort, efficiency, and overall performance. These inserts are designed to support the foot structure and enhance alignment during repetitive movement. Long-distance running places ongoing stress on the feet and lower extremities, often leading to fatigue and discomfort. Orthotics help reduce this strain by promoting proper biomechanics and stabilizing the foot during each stride. This improved alignment can lead to smoother movement patterns and better endurance over time.

One of the main benefits of orthotics for long-distance runners is improved comfort. As mileage increases, small imbalances in foot mechanics can lead to significant pain. Orthotics provide cushioning and shock absorption, reducing the impact forces that occur with each step. This helps prevent common issues, such as heel pain, arch strain, and forefoot discomfort. Increased comfort allows runners to maintain their training schedule and participate at a higher level without interruption.

Orthotics can also influence speed and efficiency. When the foot is properly aligned, energy transfer becomes more effective, allowing runners to move with less wasted motion. This can lead to improved running economy, which is essential for long distance performance. While orthotics alone do not guarantee faster times, they can support more consistent pacing and reduce fatigue. In addition, they may lower the risk of injury by controlling excessive motion and reducing stress on muscles and tendons.

Long-term use of orthotics can contribute to a lower injury rate and greater participation in running activities. Runners who experience less pain are more likely to train consistently and reach their goals. Proper fit and individualized selection are important for achieving these benefits. If you enjoy running and want to improve comfort and performance using foot orthotics, it is suggested you consult a podiatrist for a personalized guidance plan.

Custom orthotics can be an important solution for reducing foot pain by targeting its structural causes rather than just the symptoms. When the feet are misaligned, excess strain develops in the muscles, tendons, and ligaments, often resulting in discomfort in the arches, balls of the feet, or toes. Orthotics are designed to match each foot’s natural shape, supporting proper alignment and evenly distributing pressure to ease pain and improve movement.

Foot pain is commonly caused by overuse, wearing improper footwear, or biomechanical issues that place added stress on sensitive areas. By stabilizing the foot and restoring natural motion, custom orthotics help reduce strain, calm inflammation, and promote healing. Many patients experience lasting relief and greater comfort while walking, standing, or exercising.

Created from a detailed assessment using advanced imaging or casting, each pair of orthotics is tailored to your individual needs. If you are experiencing ongoing foot pain, it is suggested that you contact our office for an evaluation and treatment.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Passaic, NJ .

Obesity can place significant stress on the feet because they support the body's weight with every step. As body weight increases, the bones, joints, and soft tissues in the feet must absorb greater pressure during standing and walking. This added stress may contribute to foot pain, reduced mobility, and changes in the way the feet function. People who are overweight may be more likely to develop heel pain, flat feet, or arthritis affecting the foot and ankle. Ongoing discomfort can make everyday activities more difficult and may reduce overall physical activity. Because foot pain has many possible causes, a professional evaluation is important to identify the underlying problem and recommend the most appropriate treatment.

Excess weight can also affect the structure of the feet and alter normal walking patterns. As movement patterns change, additional strain may be placed on the ankles, knees, and hips. This altered body mechanics can increase discomfort and reduce stability over time. Obesity has also been linked to a higher risk of tendon problems and joint degeneration in the feet. A thorough podiatry evaluation helps determine how weight-related changes are affecting foot function and mobility. Identifying these concerns early allows treatment to focus on relieving pain, improving movement, and helping prevent further complications.

A podiatrist plays an important role in evaluating and treating foot problems related to obesity. During an examination, the podiatrist assesses foot structure, walking mechanics, and joint function to identify the source of discomfort. Treatment is tailored to each patient's condition and focuses on reducing pain, improving mobility, and supporting healthier foot function. Regular podiatry care may also help reduce stress on the feet and monitor changes before they become more severe. If foot pain or difficulty walking is affecting your daily life, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

The more you weigh, the harder your feet must work to support your body. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact Anas Khoury, DPM from North Eastern Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Obesity and Your Feet

People who are overweight are putting more pressure on their ankles, knees, and hips as well as their feet. This unfortunately can lead to variety of different issues.

Problems & Complications Stemming from Obesity

• When the body is overweight, it tries to compensate by changing the way that it moves. An obese person may lean forward and put extra weight on the wrong part of the foot. This puts unnecessary stress on the feet.
• Obese people are also more likely to develop type II diabetes which is a condition that causes a lot of foot problems. People with diabetes often don’t feel the cuts and sores that they may have on their feet, which can lead to more complicated and severe issues.
• Plantar fasciitis is another foot condition that can be caused by obesity. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot, which causes pain and stiffness while walking and climbing stairs.

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

A hammertoe is a toe that bends downward at the middle joint instead of lying flat. It usually affects the second, third, or fourth toe and can make wearing shoes uncomfortable. The condition develops when the muscles, tendons, and ligaments that control the toe become unbalanced. Ligaments are strong bands of tissue that connect bones, while tendons connect muscles to bones. Wearing shoes that are too tight or shoes that lack proper support can increase pressure on the toes and make the problem worse. Arthritis, foot injuries, and inherited foot structure also can contribute to hammertoes. Symptoms include pain, stiffness, and difficulty while walking. Corns and calluses also can develop because the bent toe rubs against the inside of the shoe.

A podiatrist performs a thorough examination to determine the severity of the hammertoe and whether other foot problems are present. The evaluation includes checking the flexibility of the affected toe, the position of the joints, and the strength of the surrounding muscles. The podiatrist also watches how the patient stands and walks because changes in movement can increase pressure on the toes. X-rays provide detailed images of the bones and help identify arthritis or changes in joint alignment. An accurate diagnosis allows the podiatrist to develop a treatment plan that matches the patient's symptoms and activity level. Early treatment can help prevent the toe from becoming more rigid and painful.

Treatment depends on how flexible the toe remains and how much discomfort it causes. A podiatrist can recommend shoes with a wide toe box to reduce pressure on the affected toe. Care also includes custom orthotics that improve foot alignment and reduce stress on the joints. Stretching and strengthening exercises can improve muscle balance and help support better toe movement. Patients with severe deformities or toes that have become permanently stiff can benefit from surgery to restore a more natural position. If you have developed a  hammertoe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Anas Khoury, DPM of North Eastern Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctor 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 office located in Passaic, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.