Gout is a form of arthritis that develops when excess uric acid in the body leads to crystal deposits in the joints. Gout often affects the big toe, ankle, or other foot joints, which can cause intense pain, redness, and swelling. Acute attacks occur suddenly, often at night, while chronic gout may result in large, painful tophi forming around the joints. Treatment for gout focuses on reducing pain, preventing future attacks, and protecting joint health. A podiatrist can evaluate your foot and ankle symptoms, recommend medications to manage inflammation and uric acid levels, and suggest footwear modifications to reduce joint stress. In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove large tophi or repair joint damage. Dietary and lifestyle changes, such as reducing alcohol intake and avoiding high-purine foods, can also help lower uric acid levels and decrease the frequency of attacks. Staying hydrated and maintaining a healthy weight may further support joint health. If you have toe or ankle pain that may be related to gout, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment solutions.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Eastern Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors 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 Greenville, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.