Gout is a form of arthritis caused by uric acid buildup that leads to crystal deposits in the joints. It affects men more often than women, although women become more at risk after menopause. Gout is prevalent worldwide and commonly targets the big toe due to its lower temperature and high pressure put on it during walking. The pain from gout can be severe, and it may be difficult to complete activities. Risk factors include obesity, high purine diets, alcohol use, and certain medical conditions. Symptoms include sudden joint pain, redness, swelling, and tenderness that can limit mobility. A podiatrist can accurately diagnose gout, offer lifestyle guidance and treatments to manage pain and prevent recurrence. If you have symptoms of gout, it is suggested that you consult 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 Darlyne Cange, DPM from Cange Podiatry, DPM, PA. 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 offices located in Glen Burnie and Ellicott City, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

If your child has stubbed their toe and you notice he or she is limping, it may be an indication of a broken toe. Some of the symptoms that are often associated with this condition may include severe pain, swelling, and the inability to put weight on the toe. After a proper diagnosis, which generally includes having an X-ray taken, proper treatment can begin. This can consist of taping the affected toe to the toe next to it, which is referred to as buddy taping. This method can give the fractured toe the stability that is needed as the healing process takes place. If the fracture is severe, it may be necessary to use a cane or crutches, which can help lessen the weight placed on the toe. If you think your child may have broken their toe, it is advised that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Darlyne Cange, DPM from Cange Podiatry, DPM, PA. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Glen Burnie and Ellicott City, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A foot puncture wound is an injury in which a sharp object penetrates the skin, potentially reaching deeper tissues such as muscles, tendons, or bones. Common causes include stepping on nails, glass, or other sharp objects, often in outdoor or workplace environments. These wounds can become easily infected due to bacteria being introduced deep into the tissue. Immediate care is vital to prevent complications, including infection or delayed healing. A podiatrist can thoroughly clean and assess the wound, provide necessary treatments such as antibiotics or tetanus updates, and guide proper wound care to promote healing. If you have a foot wound, it is strongly suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can provide effective treatment.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Darlyne Cange, DPM from Cange Podiatry, DPM, PA. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Glen Burnie and Ellicott City, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.