When the human body builds up too much uric acid, gout can occur. Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis which often begins in the big toe and can spread across the entire foot. Often gout can come on in the form of an attack. With inflammation and damage, severe pain and swelling can occur, range of motion can be negatively impacted, and the distance and direction of joint movement can decrease. This can make it hard to walk or even put shoes on. A person can incur permanent damage from gout where the joints do not fully function. There is currently not a cure for gout, but symptoms can be alleviated or at least managed if proper help is sought.  If you are experiencing pain in your big toe and you suspect you have gout, or you are not sure what the pain is from, seek the advice of a podiatrist who can diagnose the condition and provide proper treatment.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Fusion Foot and Ankle. 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 Fort Worth and Arlington, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.