Gout is caused by a buildup of uric acid in the blood, which forms sharp crystals in the joints and leads to sudden pain, swelling, redness, and warmth. Flare-ups of gout often take place in the big toe. They can make walking difficult and may occur repeatedly, causing damage to joints in the feet and ankles, if left untreated. A podiatrist can diagnose gout by examining the affected area and using imaging or lab tests to rule out other problems, like fractures or other types of arthritis. Gout in the feet can lead to long-term joint damage, tissue changes and deformities. Management of gout includes medication to reduce inflammation and guidance on preventing further flare-ups. A podiatrist can also assess footwear and biomechanics to reduce pressure on affected joints and help preserve foot function.  If you have frequent toe or ankle pain caused by gout, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist for management of this painful condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Kent DiNucci, DPM from Ankle and Foot Clinic . 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 Omaha, NE . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

It is common to experience occasional swelling in your feet and ankles, especially after standing or walking for long periods of time. Often, this swelling results from fluid retention and resolves with rest and elevation. However, persistent or sudden swelling may signal a more serious concern. When swelling is accompanied by pain, redness, warmth, or difficulty walking, it could indicate a medical condition requiring prompt care. Blood clots, infections, heart problems, kidney issues, or venous insufficiency are possible causes that should not be ignored. Swelling that affects only one leg, worsens throughout the day, or appears without a clear reason should raise concern. People with diabetes, heart disease, or circulation problems should monitor swelling closely, as they are at a higher risk for complications. If swelling limits your daily activities or causes discomfort, it is suggested you schedule a visit with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Kent DiNucci, DPM of Ankle and Foot Clinic . 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 Omaha, NE . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments supporting the ankle stretch or tear, often caused by sudden twisting or rolling of the foot. This injury is common during sports, walking on uneven ground, or footwear that lacks adequate support. Causes include awkward landings or falls, while risk factors involve weak ankles, previous injuries, and poor balance. Symptoms of an ankle sprain include swelling, bruising, pain, and difficulty walking. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity of the sprain through examination and imaging, then develop a treatment plan that may include rest strategies, bracing, and custom orthotics. If you have injured your ankle, it is suggested that you promptly schedule a podiatry appointment to begin an effective treatment plan.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Kent DiNucci, DPM from Ankle and Foot Clinic . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

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

Webbed toes, also known as syndactyly, occur when two or more toes are joined by skin, soft tissue, or bone. This condition develops during fetal growth when the toes fail to separate completely. The exact cause is often unknown, though genetic factors or certain medical syndromes may contribute. Risk factors include a family history of syndactyly and genetic conditions affecting limb development. While webbed toes may not cause pain or limit function, some individuals seek treatment for cosmetic or functional reasons. A podiatrist can assess the condition and recommend options such as surgery. If you or your child have webbed toes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist to explore personalized and professional treatment solutions.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Kent DiNucci, DPM of Ankle and Foot Clinic . 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 feel free to contact our office located in Omaha, NE . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.