Gout is a type of arthritis that is characterized by redness, tenderness, swelling of the joints, limited movement, and severe pain. It is caused by the buildup of uric acid in the body. Uric acid is a product of purines, an ingredient in many rich foods, such as seafood, meat, sweet beverages, and alcohol. Crystallization of purines can cause kidney stones, painful arthritis, and the buildup of uric acid crystals in the feet. One with gout can experience intense joint pain that usually affects the large joint in the big toe of the foot as well as other joints of the foot. The pain is worse when it starts and can last from a few days to a few weeks. It can feel like a burning sensation. Other factors that increase uric acid in the body and can cause gout symptoms are obesity, genetic predisposition, gender (with men being more prone to gout than women), and other medical conditions, like diabetes and high blood pressure. If you suspect you have gout, see a podiatrist as soon as possible who can make sure the diagnosis is correct and provide treatment to restore you to pain-free functioning.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact our podiatrists from Superior Foot & Ankle Center. 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 office located in Long Beach, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.