Understanding Gout: A Foot-Centered Approach to Prevention & Relief

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Written By WebPowerAdvantage

At Dyker Park Footcare in Brooklyn, we specialize in diagnosing and treating foot and ankle conditions—including gout, a painful form of arthritis that often strikes the big toe. If you’ve experienced sudden, intense joint pain, especially in the middle of the night, gout could be the cause—and we’re here to help.

 What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that causes sudden, severe joint pain—most often in the big toe. It’s triggered by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in joints. Uric acid is a natural waste product in the blood, but when the body produces too much—or the kidneys can't eliminate enough—crystals can form and settle in the joints, leading to intense inflammation and pain.

What Causes Gout?

While the precise cause of gout remains unclear, we do know several contributing factors: 

  • Diet: Red meat, shellfish, and alcohol (especially beer) are high in purines, which break down into uric acid. 

  • Genetics: Gout often runs in families, suggesting a hereditary component. 

  • Medical Conditions: High blood pressure, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease increase risk. 

  • Medications: Diuretics, low-dose aspirin, and some immune-suppressing drugs can interfere with uric acid excretion. 

  • Weight: Obesity raises uric acid production and reduces kidney efficiency. 

Gout typically affects men over 40, but postmenopausal women and people with certain medical conditions are also at increased risk. 

Recognizing the Symptoms

A classic gout attack involves: 

  • Sudden, intense pain, often at night 

  • Redness, warmth, and swelling in the joint (frequently the big toe) 

  • Limited mobility 

  • Pain that can last days to weeks if untreated 

Over time, untreated gout can lead to chronic arthritis and joint deformity. 

Diagnosing Gout

At Dyker Park Footcare, our diagnosis typically includes: 

  • Medical history and physical exam 

  • Joint fluid analysis (identifying uric acid crystals) 

  • Blood tests for uric acid levels 

  • Imaging (like ultrasound or X-ray) to assess joint damage or tophi (crystal deposits under the skin)

Treatments and Prevention

Recent clinical guidelines emphasize early intervention and tailored care. Common treatment options may include: 

  • NSAIDs (e.g., naproxen) and colchicine may offer acute pain relief 

  • Corticosteroids, when NSAIDs aren't suitable 

  • Urate-lowering therapy (ULT) with drugs like allopurinol and febuxostat 

  • Lifestyle Modifications: weight loss, hydration, limiting alcohol, and avoiding purine-rich foods

How Podiatrists Can Help

At Dyker Park Footcare, we provide specialized support for patients with foot-focused gout symptoms:

  • Joint protection and shoe modifications 

  • Custom orthotics to reduce pressure during flare-ups 

  • Preventive strategies tailored to your risk profile 

  • Ongoing monitoring for joint integrity and uric acid levels 

Take the First Step Toward Relief

Gout may not be curable, but it is manageable—and your feet don’t have to suffer. Whether you’re experiencing your first flare-up or living with chronic symptoms, early diagnosis and intervention can make a life-changing difference. 

Call Dyker Park Footcare, PLLC at (718) 745-6220 or fill out a appointment request form today to schedule your consultation. We're proud to serve the Brooklyn community with expert, compassionate podiatric care from our expert Podiatrists. 

Your feet deserve the best— Contact us and don’t let gout stand in your way.

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