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The response to the question below was authored by Marc Mitnick DPM

Gout? 2nd Toe Issues?

probable superficial frost bite

probable superficial frost bite

I work out at gym 4-5 times weekly. I wear flip flops all the time in locker room. Father and older brother have some history of gout. I never knew what it was until recently. Every so often, mainly my 2nd toe gets enraged, red, tender to the touch. Almost looks like a rash? Sometimes it seems to spread onto the Large toe as a simple DOT. You can see the dot on the big toe, 1-2mm dia, and tender to the touch. Not near a joint, just on the surface. I went to podiatrist and he had no idea what it could be and promptly asked for his $200 exam fee....It comes and goes. I seem to have very cold feet and hands (in good shape, but poor circulation to the ends of my 6'4" frame?). Problem tends to flare up if it's cold, then i put socks on or put feet under blankets. I wake up a couple hours later with the foot sweaty, beating, red, enraged. Or, if i work outside in the snow and socks get damp from sweat. It's always the 2nd toe and sometimes goes onto the 3rd toe. But never the 3rd toe or big toe alone. I've learned to just deal with it as it doesn't stop me from doing what i want to do (i.e. no work stopping pain). I've tried chemicals, epsom salt baths, tee tree oil, etc. The only thing that seems to work is a prescription topical steriod (topicort). It seems to calm it down, then a day or so later, you can see the red replaced with dark purple and tan/brown like a funus was just killed. Then, if i keep my foot under the blanket or in wet socks, it starts all over again. It's hard to control it from happening....but worst of all i have no idea what it is and if there is a permanent cure! Help. Photos attached.


Hi,
You do not mention whether you are male or female, nor your age but it appears if it is a circulation problem rather than gout. My first thought would be superficial frostbite which you can read about on my site.
See another doctor for confirmation (and call the first doctor and ask for your money back, he/she has a lot of nerve telling you they do not know what the problem is and then charging you for it)
Marc Mitnick DPM

Comments for Gout? 2nd Toe Issues?

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Apr 28, 2015
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Thank you!
by: Anonymous

Annie,
I forgot about this page as I posted it over 2 yrs ago. Thanks for the feedback. I have not run across Chilbains, but that sounds exactly like what it is. Anyone looking at it usually says "Reynalds" but can't really explain more. I tried blood thinner, didn't like the side effects. But, Chilbains sounds exactly what it is...especially the cold to warm aspect. I also find that shoes (mainly plastic - like snow boots and cheap shoes i.e. not leather) play a part in it. The lack of proper air flow would make my feet flare. May also be an allergic reaction to plastic?? I can feel it coming on...then i take my boots and socks and you can see it all flared up. Takes about a good 3-6 days to go away and the skin looks dead (like it's healed), then back to normal. I have not had a flare up in over a year. To anyone out there that has this, my advice is, avoid plastic shoes of any kind, drink lots of water (this helped a lot!) and for flare ups get prescription for topical steroid and apply thin coat. Good luck

Apr 25, 2015
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Chilblains
by: Annie

Hi,

I know this post is very outdated but I figured I would write a comment in case this issue was never solved. I think this is something call Chilblains. It's caused by your blood vessels shrinking in the cold and then being warmed up too quickly. It creates a bottle-neck affect. So, heating up the toes when you first get inside actually makes the problem worse. It's a common issue in Britain because it is very cold and damp there.

I hope this helps!

Dec 03, 2013
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raynauds cold red sore toes
by: Anonymous

Yes people on the raynauds . I am 47 just had it flare up again after not having issues for the last 1o years. I was diagnosed in my early twenties, went on norvasc with in issues and it cleared up. Norvasc helps dilate the blood vessels in order for blood to circulate. Hope this helps. You should see a circulatory specialist. Family physicians should refer you to one rather than misdiagnosing by taking a wild guess.

Jan 10, 2012
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Response
by: Anonymous

I solved a couple of problems related to cold, damp feet by applying "clinical" anti-perspirant to my feet every night. My feet stay warmer when they are dry, plus I get fewer blisters and athletes's foot rashes. My shoes smell a whole lot better, too. :)

Mar 01, 2011
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response
by: Anonymous

they said reynaulds. I get the feeling no one really knows for sure. I'm 43 yrs old, 6'4" and work out a lot. For some reason i'm suseptable to this and there's no magic cure. I seem to have had a good year since by just controlling it like i said....when i feel it coming on, i dry the feet, use topical steriods, change socks and all works out. I do believe it is a circulation issue.

Hope this helps.

Feb 28, 2011
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Gout ?
by: Anonymous

Erythromelagia or Raynauld's ?

Feb 28, 2011
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Feedback
by: Anonymous

Yes, my doctor ruled it as Reynalds (spelling?)(circulation issue). He prescribed a heart blood pressure med, but it made me drowsy. I think it kind of helped? But, mostly, i just control it better now. If i feel it coming on (and yes, you can feel it coming on) i change socks immediately. I also was prescribed a topical steriod that seems to help the flair ups.

Bottom line, no magical solution, just minimizing the flair ups.

jb

Feb 26, 2011
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any answers yet
by: Anonymous2

Hi. I found your comments interesting as I have had the same thing. My doctor mentioned circulation issues but ruled them out due to my age and small size. Defintely no frostbite where I live. I've tried several treatments with no luck...creams, antibiotics. Did you ever find anything out?

Jan 17, 2011
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So what is this condition ?
by: Anonymous

Definitely NOT frostbite. So what is this conditon... athlete's foot or rheumatoid arthritis ?


Jan 10, 2011
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I'm so glad I'm not the only one!
by: Sophia

Hey,
I seem to have the same problem as well. It started last year in the fall. I remember wearing sandels and someone stepped on my toes and it took at least ten mintues for the burning pain to calm down. It hurts so bad. Its doing it again this year. I understand what you mean about 2nd toe. I don't get it on my 1st but I do on my third. And maybe fourth. My blood also doesn't cirrculate very well to my hands and feet eitherr. But I don't think height has anything to do with it cause I'm 5'5". Well I went to the doctor last year and pretty much all he say was that it was inflammation. Do they come out as slightly raised bumps as in swolen and like right befire the nail kinda close to the joint? I have no idea what it is. Cold weather deffinatly does affect it though. Well please email me back or something. My email is [email protected]. Thanks!

Apr 01, 2010
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Feedback
by: Anonymous

42 yr old, male. I wish going back to the dr for a refund were as easy as contacting you. Would you recommend a podiatrist or some other specialist?

thank you,
Joel

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ADDITIONAL REFERENCES

Mayo Clinic

Johns Hopkins Medicine

MedlinePlus

Arthritis Foundation

University of Rochester Medical Center

Harvard Health

Drugs.com

American Academy of Pediatrics

Penn State Medical Center

National Institutes of Health

Columbia University Department of Rehabilitation

ScienceDirect

Stanford Health Care

Illinois Bone and Joint Institute

Mount Sinai Hospital

Institute for Chronic Pain

University of Florida Health

American Family Physician

Cedars-Sinai

University of Maryland Medical Center





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(items I prescribe in the office)


Orthotics for multiple types of foot pain
best buy in a pre-made orthotic
click link below


SuperStepOrthotics


Orthotics for heel and arch pain for those who must wear dress shoes
click link below


redithotics


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(location unknown)
Dear Dr. Mitnick, The orthotics arrived four days ago and I slipped them into my shoes immediately. I was skeptical as to the usefulness of the item, they really didn't look very exotic. I have to say though, after using them for just four days, I have experienced grand relief from my foot pain. Even the very first day, I was able to do a lot of work while on my feet with at least a 75% reduction of pain. It has only gotten better every day, and I go nowhere without my shoes with the orthotics. I had been experiencing extreme heel and sole pain for about six months and had to take extended breaks off my feet many times a day as well as regular doses of Ibuprofen. Since getting the orthotics, my life has returned to normal and I feel good again. Just wanted to say thanks for the recommendation for a very effective item, I had no idea what a change this item could affect.

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Thanks for the Response, you hit it on the head.

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LH

(location unknown)
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(location unknown)
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(location unknown)
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Denison, TX
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UK


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Regards,

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Mansfield Ctr, CT


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Placentia, California


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Unknown

Unknown location


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Unknown location


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Thank you for your very interesting and informative site!

Anonymous




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Thanks very much for the wonderful informative site.

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New Zealand


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Sincerely

Josette


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Arizona
I searched the internet everywhere for a clear description and illustration of my symptoms/problem. https://www.foot-pain-explained.com/ was where I ended my search with answers. If I lived in Jersey (left 30 years ago) and didn't live in Florida I would definetly make an appointment with Dr. Mitnick.

Thanks, Kathy

Florida
1st of all THANKS A LOT for your great site......

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Poland
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M P

South Carolina
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unknown location


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Arlington, VA


Thank you so very much, that would be much appreciated. I love those insoles, by the way. (referring to Superstep orthotics)

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San Clemente, CA


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Pam

location unknown


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Bre

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Dr. Mitnick, Thank you so much for your reply. I did let my physician know and they took an x-ray - all is well! Also, thank you for providing this wonderful site, it is very helpful with lots of useful information! I appreciate your gift of time! God bless.

anonymous




Dr. Mitnick, Thank you, you were 100% correct. The pain finally brought me to the ER. I spent 8 days in the hospital. The Doppler you spoke of was able to show that there was no pulse in that foot. This was an arterial clot that split and traveled throughout my leg. My leg was almost amputated. I am in rough shape but have all my parts intact!! You certainly know what you are talking about. Thank you for taking the time to answer. Yours Truly!

anonymous




Staying at home after hallux surgery I spend quite a lot of time seaching info useful for avoiding problems which might come back. Today I found your site and I am .... delighted it happened. It's one of the best site I found last days.

Anna

Poland




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Seattle, WA


I just wanted to say that I am very greatful for this website!!

Bonnie

location unknown




Also, and importantly, just want to praise this web site. Thorough and thoughtfully presented, it certainly must be of considerable assistance to anyone with a foot problem. Terrific -- and very interesting.I trust the address comes up easily for those seeking information.

Bill

New Jersey




Thanks so much for answering my question. You've been more help to me than my own Dr. has been lately. Thanks again....I hope to be able to walk without pain someday.

Debbie

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Wow, that is exactly the information needed!!! thank you thank you thank you!!! I appreciate this help so very much from Marc Mitnick DPM. Excellent information and help to improve One's life.

Chrissy

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Thanks so much for this website Dr. Marc! It is so nice that you have this ask the doctor feature..I'm sure I'ts been helpful for alot of people. I will try what you suggested and see if it helps...thanks again!

Tracy

Evansville, IA




Dear Marc

I just want to say thank you for the quick response and the good info. I find it amazing and a super nice thing that you do here by answering medical questions at no charge.

Russ W.

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Your website is full of a lot of helpful information, and I am very impressed with the time in which you responded to my post. Thank you again for your time and consideration in your response.

-Sunny.

location unknown




Thank you very much for the information, I will consider it. Excellent web site.

Jackie

San Diego, CA




Dr. Mitnick, Just want to say thank you so very much for your quick response and very informative reply! After reading what you had to say, I called the doctor's office and was able to get in and see him the same day as my injury. Toe was x-rayed and luckily, it is not broken or fractured. Very badly bruised and will probably lose the toe nail. And although my toe and toe nail are still very black and blue and very sore, they ARE both starting to feel a little better. So again, thank you! I am so very happy that I came across your website. The service you provide is outstanding and immeasurable!

Rivi,

Albany, NY




Thank you so much for all of your advice. In searching the web for people dealing with this same issue i can tell you that you are a Knight In shining Armor! If I lived in Jersey I would gladly be your Spokesperson. Hopefully next time you hear from me it will be good news. God Bless,

Jill S.

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THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH FOR YOUR TIME AND EFFORTS, YOU ARE SO VERY APPRECIATED. THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU DO.

Jackie

Whichita, KS




thanks again, this site is very helpful.

mark

Boston, MA




Like others have stated...This site is amazing and I am so thankful that it was created.

....Keep up what your doing. Your a life saver.

Michelle

Colorado




Thanks again for the information provided on your site. It's easy for non-medical folk to understand your writing, and helps provide better communication between patient and doctor.

annielou

Colorado


Wonderful advice

by: Anonymous

This is the best site for foot problem info.


Thank you for this information. This description fits my pain and inflammation behind my 2nd toe perfectly.

by: Max

location unknown
Again, I really appreciate that you responded to my inquiry, and that your mention of Parkinson's helped me to find my way to a diagnosis of this difficult to diagnose disease. Most patients see on average 16 doctors before they are diagnosed. I hope that you can help other people that ask for your expertise in the future.

Barb D.

Canada
I just wanted to say that I am very greatful for this website!! I have had a fusion in my rt foot and am finally getting a little bit better......

Bonnie

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Again, Thank you from the bottom of my heart for taking the time to answer my question....your an angel!

Nancie

Wisconsin
Thank you for your response. You have provided some great insight (to my question)....

Julie

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Thank-you so very much for responding so quickly and in such detail to my question!! I will give my surgeon a call today!! This website is terrific!!!! Thank-you again!

Renae

North Carolina
Many Thanks Dr Marc!
Thank you for your response. It sounds like a good plan to me. He did not cut the wart out first ...

KG

location unknown


Thanks again doc for having this website and we STILL need qualified Podiatrists in beautiful sunny Tampa Bay (Bradenton) Florida.

Bessie Mae

Florida
Dear Dr. Mitnick, Thank you so very much for taking your time to answer my question. You have greatly relieved my anxiety related to the continual tingly I feel in my feet. I will share your response with my podiatrist next week. God bless you for having this question and answer page on your website! Most gratefully,

Lynne T.

location unknown
Your webpage is excellent, I commend you on sharing your knowledge to the public.

Robert

New Jersey


Thank you. you were more detailed than what others have told me they finally called from the last xrays and my son is now in a cast for 2 weeks he did have a fracture that was not noticeable.

a mom

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I have read your website and I have to admit that I am amazed at all the information that is on here. I have learned more than the three years I have been going to several doctors that I have seen!!

Melody

Lenoir, NC


Thank you so much Doc for a quick and thorough response!

Rustam

Bellevue, WA


I cannot thank you enough for your response, opinion, and suggestions! I want you to know how much it means to me, and I'm sure everyone else who has ever asked you a question! I feel like you're a lifesaver and have empowered me to take a stronger role and stand up for myself and my feet!

Jodi

location unknown

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