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Gout is an inflammatory arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. This buildup leads to sudden and severe pain, swelling, and redness in the affected area. Gout most commonly affects the big toe but can also impact other joints, including the ankles, knees, and feet. The pain associated with gout can be debilitating, often occurring suddenly and at night. Early gout treatment is necessary to prevent joint damage.
Gout is a result of an excess of uric acid in the blood. Normally, uric acid is excreted through urine, but when the body produces too much or fails to eliminate enough, it can crystallise and deposit in the joints. These uric acid crystals trigger your body to attack its joints, causing pain and inflammation.
The causes of increased uric acid levels include:
The signs and symptoms of gout usually appear suddenly and can be severe. Common symptoms include:
There are several factors that can increase your risk of developing gout, particularly in the lower limbs:
Gouty arthritis is a form of infammatory joint disease that occurs when uric acid crystals accumulate in the joints. It leads to joint inflammation and pain. It most commonly affects the lower limbs, with the big toe being the most frequently impacted joint. Over time, recurrent gout attacks can lead to joint damage and a condition known as chronic gouty arthritis, where the joints may become permanently damaged.
A person with chronic gouty arthritis will have restrictions in the range of motion of the affected joint. The restriction will impact the person’s mobility and gait functions. As a result, it can lead to secondary musculoskeletal problems. For example, restriction in the big toe joint often causes metatarsalgia or plantar plate injury of the second toe joint.
In some cases, gout can also lead to the formation of tophi (uric acid crystal deposits) under the skin, particularly around the joints. This condition is known as tophaceous gout. These lumps can be painful and unsightly. Over-accumulation of these crystals can also cause the tophi to break down and form chronic wounds. Such cases of tophaceous gout will require more invasive treatment to prevent further complications.
When a gout attack occurs, the primary focus of treatment is reducing pain and inflammation. Treatment options include:
It is essential to consult a medical professional before taking any medications. Taking medications unnecessarily can result in unwanted side effects.
Long-term management is necessary to prevent future gout attacks and preserve your joint health. It typically includes:
Diet plays a significant role in managing gout. To reduce the risk of flare-ups, we recommend seeing a Dietitian or the following:
It is important to consult a podiatrist if you are experiencing gout symptoms, particularly in the lower limbs. A podiatrist can:
If you are experiencing recurrent gout attacks or persistent pain in your lower limbs, it is time to seek help. At Straits Podiatry, we strive to help you manage gout and maintain optimal foot and joint health.
Gout is a painful inflammatory joint condition that typically affects the ankle and foot, especially the big toe joint. Therefore, you should start taking early measures to prevent long-term complications.
At Straits Podiatry, our experienced podiatrists are here to provide personalised care for gout and help you maintain a healthy, active lifestyle. We also work closely with specialists to help manage your uric acid levels. If you’re experiencing gout symptoms, schedule an appointment with us today.
Straits Podiatry (Buona Vista),
31 Rochester Drive,
#02-01 (Hotel Block),
Singapore 138637
Straits Podiatry (Katong),
i12 Katong, 112 East Coast Rd,
#03-01/02/03/04/28,
Singapore, 428802.
Straits Podiatry (Orchard),
Healthway Japanese Medical
@The Centrepoint
176 Orchard Rd,
#06-05,
Singapore, 238843