Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis that develops when uric acid builds up in the blood and forms sharp crystals in the joints. The big toe is one of the most common locations for a gout attack due to its lower temperature and reduced circulation compared to other areas. Early signs of gout often begin suddenly and may include intense pain, swelling, redness, and warmth in the affected toe. The joint may become extremely tender, making it difficult to walk or wear shoes. These symptoms often appear during the night and can worsen quickly. Gout can be extremely painful, and may cause difficulty in completing daily activities. If you have symptoms of this condition, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer you relief, management and prevention tips.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Centers of Charlotte County . Our doctors 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 Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

When a bunion becomes very large and the front of the foot curves inward sharply, a condition called metatarsus adductus, walking can become painful and shoes may no longer fit comfortably. In more serious cases like this, a special type of surgery can help. Minimally invasive bunion surgery uses tiny cuts and small tools to realign the bones of the big toe and reduce the bump. This approach can also help correct the inward curve of the foot. Because the incisions are small, there is usually less swelling, less pain, and a shorter recovery time compared to traditional surgery. If you have a painful bunion along with a curved foot shape, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist to discuss if this surgical option is right for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Centers of Charlotte County . Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments that support the joint are stretched or torn due to excessive force. The most common type is an inversion sprain, where the foot rolls inward, causing damage to the outer ligaments. An eversion sprain is less common and happens when the foot rolls outward, affecting the inner ligaments. The severity of ankle sprains is classified into grades. A mild sprain involves slight stretching of the ligaments with minimal swelling. A moderate sprain includes partial tearing, increased swelling, and difficulty bearing weight. A severe sprain results in a complete ligament tear, significant swelling, and joint instability. Strengthening exercises, balance training, and supportive footwear can help prevent future injuries and maintain ankle stability. If you have sprained your ankle, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can offer treatment solutions based on the type and severity of the sprain.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Centers of Charlotte County . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

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

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Pickleball places significant demands on the feet, toes, and ankles due to frequent lateral movements, rapid direction changes, and sudden stops. Proper footwear for pickleball is essential to enhance stability during play and reduce the risk of injury. Unlike running shoes, which are designed for forward motion, pickleball shoes provide more lateral support, a reinforced heel counter, and a midfoot shank to help stabilize the foot. A thicker midsole affects comfort and mobility with cushioning that provides more shock absorption, while a thinner midsole allows for quicker movements. The outsole material is another key factor in choosing pickleball shoes. Outdoor pickleball shoes require durable rubber for traction on hard courts, while indoor shoes use softer rubber for better grip on wood or laminate surfaces. Choosing the correct shoe width and length is important to avoid foot strain or discomfort. A podiatrist can assess your foot mechanics, recommend appropriate footwear, and address any pain or discomfort that arises from playing pickleball. If you experience foot pain from playing pickleball, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Centers of Charlotte County . Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.