Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis that often affects the feet and ankles, causing intense pain and swelling. It occurs when uric acid crystals build up in the joints, typically starting with a sudden, severe flare in the big toe. Symptoms include sharp, burning pain, redness, warmth, and stiffness in the affected joint. Flares can last from days to weeks, often becoming more frequent if not managed properly. Repeated gout attacks can lead to tophus formation, which are large, painful deposits of uric acid crystals in soft tissues. Bony erosion can also occur which can permanently damage the joints. Over time, this can develop into chronic arthritis, making movement difficult and painful. Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation with medications, lowering uric acid levels through lifestyle changes, with an emphasis on proper diet and hydration. If you have symptoms of gout, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and care.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Plaza Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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

Ankle pain often directly impacts strength, balance, range of motion, and stability. When the ankle is injured or weakened, it may lead to pain, making it difficult to perform everyday movements. This pain can reduce ankle strength, as the muscles and tendons may not function optimally due to discomfort. Over time, this weakness can further affect balance, increasing the risk of falls or re-injury. Limited range of motion is another consequence, as pain restricts the joint’s ability to move freely, causing stiffness. Ankle instability can also develop when the ligaments are damaged or weakened, making the ankle prone to giving way during physical activity. If you are experiencing ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Plaza Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

Morton's neuroma is a painful condition that affects the ball of the foot, and the pain is felt typically between the third and fourth toes. It occurs when the tissue surrounding one of the nerves leading to the toes thickens, causing sharp, burning pain or a sensation of walking on a pebble. Numbness or tingling in the toes may also be present. Morton’s neuroma is often caused by irritation or compression of the nerve, usually due to wearing tight shoes, high heels, or engaging in repetitive activities like running. Foot abnormalities, such as flat feet or high arches, can also contribute. To manage symptoms, switching to shoes with a wider toe box and low heels, and using orthotics can reduce pressure on the nerve. A podiatrist may recommend treatments such as corticosteroid injections and anti-inflammatory medications. In severe cases, surgical removal of the neuroma may be necessary. If you have a painful Morton’s neuroma, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Plaza Podiatry. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

Cracked heels are a common foot condition caused by dry, thickened skin that splits or fissures around the heel. This issue often arises from prolonged pressure, dryness, or improper foot care. Symptoms include visible cracks or splits in the heel, which may be accompanied by discomfort or pain, especially when walking or standing for extended periods. In more severe cases, cracks can bleed, leading to potential infections if not properly treated. The skin surrounding the cracks may appear red or inflamed, and there might be a buildup of thickened skin. If you have severely cracked heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition, which may include prescribed medication.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Plaza Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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

The foot is a complex structure comprised of numerous bones and joints, vital for movement and support. The forefoot includes the five metatarsal bones and the phalanges, which form the toes and are essential for balance and propulsion. The midfoot consists of the five tarsal bones, including the cuboid, navicular, and three cuneiform bones, which provide structural support and flexibility. The hindfoot comprises the talus and the calcaneus, with the talus connecting the foot to the leg and the calcaneus forming the heel. These bones work together through various joints, such as the subtalar joint and the metatarsophalangeal joints, allowing for a wide range of motion and shock absorption. If you have any kind of foot injury, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat various foot injuries.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Plaza Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Baltimore, Lutherville, and Dundalk, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.