Blog

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis that often appears without warning, frequently affecting the big toe. The joint may become intensely painful, red, warm, and swollen, sometimes overnight. The skin can look tight or shiny, and even light pressure from a sheet may feel uncomfortable. This condition develops when uric acid builds up in the bloodstream and forms sharp crystals within the joint. Triggers may include certain foods, dehydration, alcohol use, or underlying medical conditions that affect how the body processes uric acid. A podiatrist can identify gout through a physical exam, medical history, and diagnostic testing. Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation and preventing future attacks through medication, lifestyle adjustments, and supportive care. Addressing symptoms early can help protect the joint from long-term damage. If you suspect you have gout, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Jonathan Kletz from Texas Foot Works. 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 one of our our offices located in Dallas, Athens, and Gun Barrel City, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Two tiny bones under the big toe joint, called sesamoids, help the foot handle pressure while walking and running. When these bones or the surrounding tissue become irritated, inflammation can develop. This often causes pain beneath the base of the big toe, especially when walking, standing for long periods of time, or wearing thin-soled or high-heeled shoes. The area may feel swollen, warm, or tender, and bending the big toe can make the pain worse. Repeated stress from dancing, jogging, or wearing poor-fitting shoes often leads to this problem. A podiatrist can examine the foot, check for swelling, and order X-rays to rule out a fracture or arthritis. Treatment of sesamoiditis includes custom orthotics, offloading pads that reduce pressure, and supportive shoes with thicker soles. Pain also can be relieved with anti-inflammatory medicine taken orally and injections to numb the painful area. If you have pain beneath the big toe joint, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Dr. Jonathan Kletz of Texas Foot Works. Our doctor will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

• Sudden increase in activity
• Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
• Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our our offices located in Dallas, Athens, and Gun Barrel City, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

An aneurysmal bone cyst is a noncancerous growth that contains blood and can cause the bone to expand. It typically develops in young adults, most often affecting women. While it commonly appears in the long bones of the arms and legs, it can occasionally occur in less typical areas like the bones of the foot. It is not always clear why it develops, but it is thought to result from abnormal blood flow within the bone that leads to swelling and expansion. Because it can weaken the bone, it is important for podiatrists to keep this condition in mind when assessing unusual bone lesions. Early recognition helps guide proper imaging, diagnosis, and treatment planning. If you are experiencing persistent foot pain, swelling, or a noticeable lump, it is important to have it evaluated. It is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a thorough examination and appropriate care.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. Jonathan Kletz from Texas Foot Works. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our our offices located in Dallas, Athens, and Gun Barrel City, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.