Tophaceous gout is a severe form of arthritis that develops in people with chronic, untreated gout. Growths, known as tophi,  develop when uric acid crystals form masses around affected joints and soft tissues. These growths are often visible under the skin and can cause pain, swelling, and deformity in the feet, particularly around the toes and ankles. Over time, tophi can damage joints, reduce mobility, and even lead to disability. Tophaceous gout is caused by high levels of uric acid in the blood, which forms sharp crystals that trigger inflammation. Risk factors include a family history of gout, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, and medical conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure. While medications to lower uric acid levels are effective in managing the condition, surgery may be required for large, painful tophi. If you have symptoms of tophaceous gout, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for ongoing management and treatment.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Joseph M. LaCava, DPM from Arkansas. 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 Hot Springs, AR . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a fungal infection that affects the toenails, often leading to noticeable changes in their appearance. Toenail fungus can cause discoloration, thickening, and crumbling of the nail, sometimes resulting in separation from the nail bed. The infection is primarily caused by dermatophytes, a type of fungus that thrives in warm, moist environments, like the inside of shoes. Factors such as excessive sweating,  wearing tight footwear, nail trauma, or an existing fungal infection can increase the risk of developing toenail fungus. People with a weakened immune system or conditions like diabetes or poor circulation are at a higher risk. Symptoms of toenail fungus include discoloration, often yellow or brown, and changes in the texture of the nail. In severe cases, the nail may become painful or difficult to trim. If you notice changes in the appearance of your toenails, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment. 

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Joseph M. LaCava, DPM of Arkansas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Hot Springs, AR . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain, often resulting from strain on the thick band of tissue that supports the arch. This condition can make walking or standing uncomfortable, especially first thing in the morning. Foot orthotics help by supporting the arch, redistributing pressure, and absorbing shock during movement. They ease tension on the plantar fascia and promote healing. A podiatrist can assess your foot structure, confirm the diagnosis, and design custom orthotics tailored to your specific needs. With proper support, symptoms can improve and daily activities can become more comfortable. If you have developed heel pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist to explore how orthotics can provide lasting relief and restore foot comfort.

Custom orthotics are specialized shoe inserts created to support and align the feet according to each person’s unique structure and walking pattern. They are an effective way to relieve foot discomfort caused by conditions such as flat feet, high arches, plantar fasciitis, bunions, and heel pain. When the natural alignment of the foot is off balance, it can lead to pressure points, strain, and pain that affect how a person stands, walks, and moves. Orthotics work by redistributing weight evenly and supporting the arch to reduce stress on the muscles, tendons, and joints of the feet and lower legs.

Foot discomfort can develop for many reasons, including wearing improper footwear, long hours of standing, repetitive motion, or underlying structural problems. Over time, this discomfort can extend beyond the feet, contributing to knee, hip, or lower back pain. Custom orthotics help correct these issues by improving alignment and promoting more efficient movement. They are made using precise measurements and imaging to ensure the best fit for each patient, providing targeted support and cushioning where it is needed most.

Unlike generic insoles, custom orthotics are durable, medically designed, and tailored to your specific needs. Whether you are managing chronic pain, recovering from an injury, or simply seeking better comfort and stability, orthotics can make a noticeable difference in how your feet feel throughout the day.

If you are experiencing persistent foot discomfort or fatigue, it may be time to have your feet evaluated by a podiatrist. Call our office today for more information or to schedule an appointment.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hot Springs, AR .