Gout is a form of arthritis that commonly affects the feet, especially the big toe joint, and develops when uric acid crystals build up around a joint. The earliest stage of gout, called asymptomatic hyperuricemia, involves crystal deposits without pain. The second stage, acute intermittent gout, is when sudden attacks occur, often at night or early in the morning. These episodes cause severe pain, redness, swelling, and warmth in the affected toe, ankle, or foot joint. It sometimes makes it difficult to walk or even touch the area. If gout is not properly managed, it can progress to chronic tophaceous gout, where hard deposits, known as tophi, form under the skin or within joints. This advanced stage can cause ongoing pain, deformity, stiffness, and limited mobility in the toes, feet, or ankles. If you are experiencing foot pain related to gout, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and ongoing help managing this painful condition.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Gelbmann Podiatry. 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 Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
