May 2025

Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to sudden and severe pain, swelling, and redness. The big toe is often affected, and may be so painful that even the weight of a bed sheet can be unbearable. Acute gout refers to the sudden onset of intense symptoms, usually affecting one joint, most commonly the big toe. These episodes may last several days before subsiding. Chronic gout develops when uric acid levels remain elevated over time, leading to frequent flare-ups, joint damage, and the formation of hard deposits called tophi. Kidney disease is closely connected to gout because the kidneys are responsible for filtering uric acid from the blood. When kidney function declines, uric acid can accumulate, increasing the risk of gout. Similarly, chronic gout may contribute to kidney damage over time, creating a cycle that worsens both conditions. If you have symptoms of gout, it is strongly suggested that you include a podiatrist on your care team 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 Chukwuma Ukata, DPM from Advanced Carolina Foot and Ankle Center. 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 Garner, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease is a rare inherited disorder that affects the peripheral nerves, which are responsible for controlling muscles and relaying sensory information. This condition gradually damages the nerves, often leading to muscle weakness and decreased sensation in the feet and lower legs. People with Charcot-Marie-Tooth may develop high arches, curled toes, and an abnormal gait due to the weakening of foot and leg muscles. Over time, the condition can result in balance issues, foot deformities, and difficulty walking. Symptoms often begin in childhood or early adulthood and  typically progress slowly. While there is no cure, treatment options like custom orthotics and supportive footwear can help manage discomfort and improve mobility for those living with this lifelong condition. If you have this condition, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact Chukwuma Ukata, DPM of Advanced Carolina Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

• Freiberg’s disease
• Kohler’s disease
• Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Garner, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
 

Foot surgery for flat feet may be recommended when conservative treatments do not relieve pain or restore function. One common procedure, termed medial displacement calcaneal osteotomy, involves shifting the heel bone inward to improve foot alignment and support the arch. Lateral column lengthening is another technique that adds bone to the outer side of the foot, helping to restore proper structure and reduce flattening. The flexor digitorum longus transfer uses a nearby tendon to support the arch by reinforcing the weakened or damaged posterior tibial tendon. Each of these surgical methods aims to correct deformity, improve stability, and reduce pain. Recovery typically involves rest, rehabilitation, and a gradual return to activity. A podiatrist can determine the best approach based on the severity and cause of flat feet. If you have flat feet and are experiencing chronic discomfort, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can help you determine if surgery is right for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Chukwuma Ukata, DPM of Advanced Carolina Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor 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 office located in Garner, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Fungal infections of the toenails can cause thickening, discoloration, and crumbling of the nail. While oral medications are sometimes used, many cases can be managed with topical or device-based treatments. Antifungal creams, gels, or medicated nail lacquers are applied directly to the nail and surrounding skin. These treatments work best when used consistently and in the early stages of infection. In addition to topical solutions, device-based options like laser therapy are becoming more common. Lasers target the fungus beneath the nail without damaging surrounding tissue, and are typically done in a podiatrist’s office. Another approach involves mechanical thinning or filing of the nail to help treatments penetrate deeper. Results can take several months, as toenails grow slowly. If you have a stubborn or worsening toenail infection, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment that is right for you.

For more information about treatment, contact Chukwuma Ukata, DPM of Advanced Carolina Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Garner, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.