Gout is an inflammatory form of arthritis that can cause a great deal of foot pain. When the uric acid levels in the body are too high, the acid can crystallize and build up in your joints, creating gout symptoms. Typically, foods that are high in purine, such as red meats and shellfish, can be contributing factors that may lead to the development of gout. Some common symptoms that can be key indicators that gout is present are intense pain in the joints, specifically the big toe, redness and swelling of the joints, difficulty being able to move the joints, and the appearance of large lumps under the skin, typically referred to as tophi. If left untreated, gout can lead to a number of serious health complications including heart disease, type two diabetes, and chronic kidney disease. For more information on how to control gout symptoms and manage the pain that coincides, it is extremely important that you are under the care of a podiatrist.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Steven Schwartz from Pennsylvania. 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 offices located in Chambersburg, and Mcconnellsburg, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.