Items filtered by date: May 2025

Gout and bunions can both cause pain in the big toe, but they differ in onset, causes, and appearance. Gout is a form of arthritis that comes on suddenly, often overnight, causing intense pain, redness, and swelling, usually in the big toe. It is caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joint, often linked to diet, alcohol, or genetics. Bunions develop gradually. They appear as a bony bump on the side of the big toe joint and result from structural issues, wearing tight shoes, or inherited foot shapes. A bunion may ache and swell as the top of the big toe turns inward over time. A podiatrist can diagnose each condition through exams, imaging, and testing. For gout, they may prescribe medication and offer dietary guidance. For bunions, treatment ranges from padding, orthotics, and anti-inflammatory meds to surgery, in severe cases. If you have this type of toe pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Zina Cappiello, DPM from Dr. Zina B. Cappiello DPM, LLC. Our podiatrist 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 Clifton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot and heel pain in children is more common than many realize and can affect daily play, sports, and growth. One frequent cause is Sever’s disease, a condition linked to growing bones and tight tendons. Flat feet, overuse, wearing poor footwear, or injuries from running and jumping can also lead to discomfort. Children may limp, avoid activity, or complain of pain in the heel or arch. Pain may be worse in the morning or after exercise. Wearing supportive shoes, resting, and stretching can often bring relief. Custom orthotics may also help improve alignment and reduce strain. Children’s feet are still developing, so it is important to address pain early to avoid long-term problems. If your child often complains of sore feet or heels, it is suggested you see a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Zina Cappiello, DPM of Dr. Zina B. Cappiello DPM, LLC. Our podiatrist can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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

Plantar fibromatosis, also known as Ledderhose disease, is a rare condition in which benign fibrous nodules form in the arch of the foot along the plantar fascia. These growths develop slowly and may cause discomfort or pain when walking or standing, especially if the nodules become larger or press against footwear. The exact cause is not fully understood, but several risk factors have been identified. Genetics may play a role, as the condition sometimes runs in families. People with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, epilepsy, or liver disease, may have a higher risk. Additionally, repeated foot trauma or strain on the plantar fascia could also contribute. If you have lumps on the sole of your foot, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can effectively monitor and treat this condition.

A plantar fibroma may disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Zina Cappiello, DPM of Dr. Zina B. Cappiello DPM, LLC. Our podiatrist can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Plantar Fibroma

A plantar fibroma is a fibrous knot in the arch of the foot. It is embedded in the plantar fascia which is a band of tissue that extends from the heel to the toes along the bottom of the foot. There can be multiple plantar fibromas in the feet at the same time. There are no known causes for this condition. If you have a plantar fibroma, there will be a bump in the arch of your foot that cannot be missed. Any associated pain is most often due to a shoe rubbing against the nodule. Non-surgical options, such as steroid injections, physical therapy, and orthotics should be tried first. Surgery is a last resort and is the only thing that will remove a plantar fibroma entirely. Consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and to determine the treatment regimen that is right for you.

What Causes a Plantar Fibroma?

While there are no specific causes identified, a plantar fibroma can possibly come from genetic predisposition or the formation of scar tissue that forms from healing the tears in the plantar fascia.

What Are the Symptoms of a Plantar Fibroma?

There will be a noticeable lump in the arch of the foot that may or may not cause pain. If pain is felt, it is typically because a shoe is rubbing up against the lump or when walking or standing barefoot.

Treatment and Prevention

A plantar fibroma will not disappear without treatment, but it can get smaller and be a non-issue. If pain persists, a podiatrist examines the foot and when the arch of the foot is pressed, pain can be felt down to the toes. An MRI or biopsy might be performed to help diagnose or evaluate the plantar fibroma. The following non-surgical options are generally enough to reduce the size and pain of these nodules:

• Steroid injections
• Orthotics
• Physical therapy to help apply anti-inflammatory creams on the bump 

Surgery is considered if the mass increases in size and the patient continues to feel pain after non-surgical methods are tried.

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

For individuals living with diabetes, the feet need extra attention. Reduced circulation and nerve damage can make it harder to notice cuts, blisters, or pressure spots, and issues that may lead to serious infections if ignored. Even a small sore can escalate quickly without proper care. Washing your feet daily, drying them carefully, and inspecting them for any changes can make a meaningful difference. Choosing shoes that fit well and allow your feet to breathe helps protect vulnerable areas from friction or injury. Staying active also supports blood flow to the lower legs and feet. Most importantly, do not wait for pain to appear, as by then, the damage may already be underway. If you have diabetes and notice redness, swelling, or even just an unusual sensation, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Zina Cappiello, DPM from Dr. Zina B. Cappiello DPM, LLC. Our podiatrist can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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