The most common type of inflammatory arthritis is a condition called Gout. Our team at the Dynamic Foot and Ankle Center has seen how gout can cause sudden and intense joint pain, often in the location of the big toe in the evening hours. It can affect other joints in the toes, ankle, or knee. Those who have osteoarthritis in their fingers may have their initial gout attack in these joints. Gout can be very painful and debilitating, so our Fredericksburg, VA foot Gout doctor always recommends getting an examination and treatment plan so that we can begin reducing the symptoms brought on by this condition. If you have questions or would like to schedule an appointment, we are ready to offer our services!
Why Gout Happens
When gout develops, it is commonly seen in those who have higher levels of uric acid due to the breakdown of purines, which are naturally-occuring properties found in the cells of your body and many food items. Uric acid may build up from ingesting red meat, certain seafood, organ meats, beer, and sugary sodas. When this accumulates, it is either because the kidneys are not able to excrete it in the way it needs to be, or from consuming too many items from a high-purine diet. As our Fredericksburg foot Gout doctor explains, this can cause needle-like crystals to lodge within joints, causing abrupt and severe pain and swelling.
Gout attacks oftentimes peak after 12-24 hours, then may slowly recede on their own, regardless of treatment or not. You may have a gout attack only once in your lifetime, or every few years. Recurring gout attacks that do not receive treatment may result in longer-lasting and increasingly prevalent incidents. Some people may develop tophi, which are large uric acid crystal masses that form in bones or soft tissues around joints, appearing as hardened lumps. If you have questions about this, contact our foot Gout doctor as soon as you can.
How We Diagnose Gout
After a physical exam, medical history, and testing, our foot Gout doctor can diagnose if you have gout. We want to make sure there are not actually other reasons for your inflammation and joint pain, such as injury, infection, or another form of arthritis. Tests we may suggest having done include a joint fluid analysis, blood test to assess uric acid levels, and imaging tests. Once these diagnostics are performed, our foot Gout doctor can conclude a diagnosis and proper treatment plan.
Dynamic Foot And Ankle Center
If you have never gone to the podiatrist before, then you may be apprehensive. But please rest assured that so many people deal with conditions in the foot and ankle. Our Fredericksburg foot Gout doctor has the tools to help you feel better again. That is why it is so important to seek care from a doctor if you have foot pain or mobility problems. The sooner you get treatment, the faster you can get back to doing what you love! Our team at the Dynamic Foot and Ankle Center is ready to offer support. Contact us today for an examination appointment!