Top of foot pain can result from several conditions that affect bones, nerves, and joints. Arthritis is joint inflammation that causes stiffness and aching. Bone spurs are bony growths that develop from long-term pressure or joint stress. Peripheral neuropathy is nerve damage that leads to burning, tingling, or numbness in the foot. A stress fracture is a small bone crack caused by repetitive impact or overuse. Each of these conditions can limit mobility and worsen without proper treatment. Risk factors include repetitive activity, wearing improper footwear, aging, and underlying health conditions. A podiatrist can diagnose the exact cause through examination and imaging, then provide treatments such as orthotics, medication guidance, or activity modification. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer appropriate treatment solutions.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Luis Esquerdo Cruz, DPM from Dr. Esquerdo Podiatry and Laser Center . Our doctor 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 our office located in San Juan, PR . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gout is a form of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream, leading to crystal deposits in the joints. The big toe is commonly affected because it is more prone to temperature changes and slower circulation, which encourages crystal formation. Symptoms often appear suddenly and include intense pain, redness, swelling, and warmth in the affected joint. Causes include genetics, obesity, certain medications, and decreased kidney function that limits the body’s ability to remove uric acid. Risk factors include high blood pressure and degenerative arthritis, which can increase susceptibility.  A podiatrist can help by diagnosing gout, managing pain, and recommending lifestyle changes. If you have pain in your big toe and surrounding joints, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide a proper diagnosis and effective relief and treatment options.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Luis Esquerdo Cruz, DPM from Dr. Esquerdo Podiatry and Laser Center . Our doctor 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 office located in San Juan, PR . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ingrown toenails are a common nail disorder in which the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, often affecting young people. In the early stage, inflammation may cause swelling and pain around the nail. As the condition progresses, increased inflammation can lead to more intense pain, a non-healing wound, and oozing. In advanced cases, all of these symptoms may be present along with abscess formation and infection. Risk factors can include improper nail trimming, wearing tight footwear, injury, and genetics. Without proper care, the condition can worsen and become more difficult to treat. A podiatrist can help by relieving pressure, treating infection, and guiding proper nail care. If you or your child has symptoms of an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the best course of treatment is for you.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Luis Esquerdo Cruz, DPM of Dr. Esquerdo Podiatry and Laser Center . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in San Juan, PR . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Wound care is an important medical specialty focused on the treatment and management of acute and chronic wounds, especially in the feet where healing can be more complex. Patient preferences on wound care may reflect attitudes and beliefs, possibly based on education. Some types of foot wounds may develop from pressure, injury, poor circulation, or complications related to conditions such as diabetes. Risk factors include reduced blood flow, nerve damage, infection, and prolonged pressure on certain areas. Common types of foot wounds include ulcers, cuts, and slow healing sores that can worsen without proper care. A podiatrist plays a key role by providing debridement, infection control, and pressure relief to promote healing. Early treatment helps prevent serious complications. If you have any type of foot wound, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can take your preferences into account and  offer appropriate treatment solutions. 

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Luis Esquerdo Cruz, DPM from Dr. Esquerdo Podiatry and Laser Center . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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