Gout and sesamoiditis are two distinct conditions that affect the big toe and can cause significant foot pain, but their causes, symptoms, and treatments vary greatly. Gout is an inflammatory arthritis triggered by uric acid crystals, frequently forming in the big toe joint. This can cause sudden, intense pain, warmth, and swelling. This painful condition is associated with risk factors like genetics, certain health issues, and a purine-rich diet. Treatment for gout includes medications to manage pain and prevent future attacks. In contrast, sesamoiditis is the inflammation of the tiny sesamoid bones and surrounding tendons at the base of the big toe. It typically occurs from overuse, especially activities that place stress on the ball of the foot, such as running or dancing. Sesamoiditis causes a dull ache that worsens with walking or bearing weight. A podiatrist can determine whether you have gout or sesamoiditis, and offer treatment options for either condition. If your big toe is in pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and 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 Jon McCreary, DPM of Fort Worth Podiatry. 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 our office located in Fort Worth, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Swollen feet can be a significant concern for individuals with diabetes, often signaling underlying health issues. Diabetes can lead to poor circulation and nerve damage, resulting in fluid retention in the extremities. When blood sugar levels are consistently high, it can cause blood vessels to narrow, impairing circulation and leading to swelling. Additionally, diabetics are at an increased risk for conditions like peripheral edema and kidney disease, both of which can cause foot swelling. It is essential for those with diabetes to monitor their feet regularly, as swelling may indicate complications that require medical attention. If diabetes has caused your feet to become swollen, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Jon McCreary, DPM of Fort Worth Podiatry. 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 feel free to contact our office located in Fort Worth, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, is a fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet, often starting between the toes. It thrives in warm, moist environments like locker rooms, public showers, and sweaty shoes. Causes include walking barefoot in these type of areas or wearing damp footwear for extended periods of time. Symptoms of athlete’s foot consist of itching, redness, peeling, and cracking skin, typically between the toes, and sometimes blisters or sores. In severe cases, the infection can spread to the toenails or other parts of the body. Diagnosis is usually made based on the appearance of the skin, but a podiatrist may take a skin scraping to confirm the presence of fungus. In persistent cases of athlete’s foot, prescription-strength antifungals may be needed. If you have athlete’s foot that is not clearing up, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Jon McCreary, DPM from Fort Worth Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, often affecting the big toe. It typically appears suddenly, with symptoms such as intense pain, swelling, redness, and warmth in the affected area. Gout attacks can be triggered by certain foods, excessive alcohol, dehydration, or medications. While lifestyle changes, such as dietary adjustments and increased hydration, can help manage mild cases, recurrent or severe attacks may require medical intervention. If you experience debilitating pain or swelling in the big toe that does not improve on its own, it is important to see a podiatrist. This type of doctor may prescribe medications to lower uric acid levels or reduce inflammation, helping to prevent future flare-ups. If you have or suspect you have gout, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a comprehensive evaluation and effective treatment options tailored to your needs.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Jon McCreary, DPM from Fort Worth Podiatry. 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 Fort Worth, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.