Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals within a joint, most often affecting the big toe, foot, and ankle. Although commonly associated with men, women can also develop gout, especially after menopause when protective hormone levels change. Symptoms typically include sudden onset of intense joint pain, swelling, redness, warmth, and stiffness, often beginning in the big toe. Causes may include genetics, diet, dehydration, kidney function changes, and certain medications. A podiatrist can help by diagnosing gout through a clinical evaluation, managing acute flare ups, reducing joint inflammation, and providing guidance on footwear and lifestyle modifications to protect the feet. If you develop sudden pain in your big toe, it is suggested that you promptly schedule a podiatry appointment to receive a proper evaluation and personalized care.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Graff Foot, Ankle and Wound Care. 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 Plano, Dallas, Prosper, Allen, Garland, Frisco, and Coppell, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

If you feel a burning pain in the ankle, and numbness or tingling on the sole of the foot, you may have a condition known as tarsal tunnel syndrome. It occurs when the leg’s tibial nerve, which allows you to feel and move the foot, is compressed. Tarsal tunnel syndrome usually affects only one foot, and discomfort tends to be worse at night. It may be caused by osteoarthritis, scar tissue buildup from an ankle injury, rheumatoid arthritis, or diabetes. The area of the foot where the tibial nerve enters the back of the ankle, called the tarsal tunnel, is normally narrow. But if the nerve is compressed, it may activate the syndrome. Pressure on the nerve may be caused by swelling from an injury, a bone spur, flat feet, a high arch, or systemic diseases. Treatment can include orthotics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory injections, and in severe cases, surgery. For more information about tarsal tunnel syndrome, please consult a podiatrist who can evaluate your condition and prescribe the proper treatment.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact one of our podiatrists of Graff Foot, Ankle and Wound Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Plano, Dallas, Prosper, Allen, Garland, Frisco, and Coppell, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Preventing falls becomes increasingly important with age as balance, strength, and sensory changes can make daily movement less secure. Many older adults experience reduced sensation in the feet, slower reflexes, or joint stiffness that affects stability. Foot pain, poorly fitting shoes, and untreated foot conditions can also increase the risk of tripping or slipping. Simple adjustments such as wearing supportive footwear, keeping walkways clear, improving lighting, and maintaining regular activity can make the home environment much safer. Routine foot evaluations help identify issues that may interfere with balance before they lead to an injury. Paying attention to these details supports confidence with every step. If you are concerned about stability or have persistent foot discomfort, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper assessment and guidance.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Graff Foot, Ankle and Wound Care. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Plano, Dallas, Prosper, Allen, Garland, Frisco, and Coppell, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Sever’s disease is a common heel condition that affects children during growth spurts when the heel bone develops faster than the surrounding tissues. This imbalance leads to irritation at the growth plate and causes noticeable discomfort during activity. Risk factors include high-impact sports, tight calf muscles, wearing improper footwear, and having flat feet or high arches. Symptoms often begin with heel pain, tenderness, swelling, and limping after play. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition through a detailed exam and recommend conservative treatments such as stretching, footwear guidance, and activity changes to reduce strain on the heel. Early care prevents prolonged discomfort and supports healthy development. If your active child has consistent heel pain, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can offer effective relief tips, ensuring your child can safely return to sporting activities.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from Graff Foot, Ankle and Wound Care. Our doctors can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Plano, Dallas, Prosper, Allen, Garland, Frisco, and Coppell, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Claw toe is a deformity where one or more toes curl downward at the middle and end joints while the joint at the base bends upward, giving the toes a claw-like shape. It often develops due to muscle imbalance, genetic factors, or wearing shoes that lack adequate support, such as narrow heels or tight-fitting styles. Over time, a claw toe deformity can cause stiffness, pain, and corns from pressure and friction inside footwear. Unlike hammertoe or mallet toe, claw toe typically affects multiple smaller toes and can progress from flexible to rigid if not addressed early. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition through examination and imaging, and recommend treatment that may involve custom orthotic support or surgery, in more advanced cases. If you have symptoms of claw toe or other toe deformities, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Graff Foot, Ankle and Wound Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Plano, Dallas, Prosper, Allen, Garland, Frisco, and Coppell, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.