July 2025

Gout is a form of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, often affecting the big toe. It can cause sudden, intense pain, redness, warmth, and swelling, making it difficult to walk or wear shoes. To diagnose gout, a podiatrist may recommend a blood test to check uric acid levels. However, high levels do not always mean gout, so joint fluid analysis is often more accurate. This involves drawing fluid from the affected joint to look for uric acid crystals under a microscope. Imaging tests like X-rays or ultrasounds may be used to rule out other conditions or to detect crystal buildup and joint damage. Once diagnosed, treatment for gout includes anti-inflammatory medications, dietary changes, and medications to lower uric acid. If you are dealing with toe pain that you suspect may be gout, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with 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 one of our doctors from Coral Desert Foot & Ankle. 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 one of our offices located in St. George and Kanab, UT, and Mesquite, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Pain along the outer edge of the foot, also known as lateral foot pain, can result from a number of conditions. It may develop suddenly after an injury or gradually over time due to overuse or poor foot mechanics. Common causes include stress fractures, peroneal tendonitis, ankle sprains, and conditions like cuboid syndrome or arthritis. People with high arches or those who wear unsupportive footwear may be more prone to discomfort in this area. Symptoms can include aching, sharp pain, swelling, or instability during movement. Treatment depends on the cause but often includes rest, footwear changes, targeted exercises, or custom orthotics to improve alignment and reduce pressure. In some cases, imaging or further testing may be needed to confirm the diagnosis. If pain on the outside of your foot is interfering with your routine or is worsening, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our doctors from Coral Desert Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in St. George and Kanab, UT, and Mesquite, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

As people age, foot problems can become more frequent and affect mobility and comfort. Common foot issues for seniors include plantar fasciitis, which causes heel pain, arthritis that leads to joint stiffness, corns from pressure or friction, and diabetic foot problems that may result in poor healing or loss of sensation. Toenail issues, such as fungal infections or thickened nails, can also cause discomfort. These conditions may impact balance and increase the risk of falls. A podiatrist can help by diagnosing problems, providing treatment, recommending proper footwear, and managing chronic conditions. If you are experiencing ongoing foot pain or changes, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for expert care and support for your long-term foot health.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our doctors from Coral Desert Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in St. George and Kanab, UT, and Mesquite, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Raynaud’s phenomenon affects blood flow to the extremities, often triggered by cold or stress. While it is more commonly noticed in the hands, the feet can also be affected. During an episode, toes may turn white, then blue, and finally red, as circulation returns. These color changes are usually accompanied by numbness, tingling, or a cold, aching sensation. For some, symptoms are mild and occasional. For others, they can interfere with comfort, mobility, and daily routines. Wearing tight shoes, exposure to cold floors, or even emotional stress can bring on an episode. Managing Raynaud’s involves keeping the feet warm, avoiding triggers, and, in some cases, using medication to improve circulation. If you notice repeated color changes or discomfort in your toes during temperature shifts, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact one of our doctors of Coral Desert Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
• Pain
• Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in St. George and Kanab, UT, and Mesquite, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete's foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet, often starting between the toes. It causes itching, burning, cracking, peeling, and redness. Warm, moist environments such as locker rooms or sweaty shoes can contribute to its development. Risk factors include wearing damp socks, walking barefoot in public places, or having a weakened immune system. The fungus spreads through direct contact or contaminated surfaces. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition, recommend effective antifungal treatments, and provide guidance to prevent recurrence. If you are experiencing persistent foot irritation, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose what may be going on.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our doctors from Coral Desert Foot & Ankle.  Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in St. George and Kanab, UT, and Mesquite, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.