If you’ve ever been jolted awake by a searing pain in your big toe, you’re not alone — you may be experiencing gout. Gout is a common form of inflammatory arthritis, and it can feel anything but common when you’re in the middle of a flare-up. The good news? Gout pain can be managed — and we’re here to help you do just that.
What is Gout?
Gout is caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, most commonly in the feet and ankles. These crystals form when your body either produces too much uric acid or doesn’t eliminate enough of it. The result is sudden, severe attacks of pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness — often centered around the big toe.
Common Triggers of Gout
Several lifestyle and dietary factors can trigger a gout flare-up, including:
- Red meat and organ meats
- Alcohol (especially beer)
- Sugary drinks
- Shellfish
- Dehydration
- Stress or illness
Understanding your triggers is key to managing your symptoms.
Managing Gout Pain: What Works
At Impression Foot & Ankle, we tailor treatment plans to help you find lasting relief from gout. Here are several proven strategies:
1. Medication
There are two main types of gout medications:
- Anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs, colchicine, corticosteroids) to treat flare-ups
- Uric acid-lowering medications (allopurinol, febuxostat) to prevent future attacks
We work with you to determine which combination is safest and most effective based on your health history.
2. Lifestyle Adjustments
Simple changes can have a big impact:
- Stay hydrated
- Limit alcohol
- Eat a balanced, low-purine diet
- Maintain a healthy weight
3. Foot & Ankle Support
Because gout often targets the feet, we also provide:
- Custom orthotics to reduce joint pressure
- Supportive footwear recommendations
- Localized treatments for inflammation
4. Monitoring and Prevention
Recurring gout attacks can lead to joint damage over time. Regular visits with your podiatrist help track progress, adjust medications, and prevent long-term complications.
Don’t Let Gout Hold You Back
You don’t have to suffer in silence. At Impression Foot & Ankle, we believe in comprehensive, compassionate care — and that includes helping you take control of chronic conditions like gout.
If you’re experiencing gout symptoms or want to prevent your next flare-up, schedule a consultation today. Relief is possible — and it starts with a step in the right direction.
📞 Call us today or book online at ImpressionFoot.com to get started.
Because every step matters.