Gout is a very painful type of arthritis that is caused by a building up of uric acid. Gout most commonly forms in the big toe but can impact other joints in the body. When there is an excess amount of uric acid in the blood, the acid will crystallize around the joints, and they will become stiff, irritated, and painful. A healthy lifestyle is key to preventing gout. This includes maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding foods with high purines, and eating plenty of vitamin C. Patients who are struggling with gout pain in their big toe should be under the care of a podiatrist. A podiatrist will be able to help provide pain relief options that may include pain medications as well as footwear that helps alleviate the pain. 

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Thomas E. Silver from Westwood Foot Clinic. 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 Golden Valley, MN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.