Even though gout is most well-known for causing debilitating toe pain, this arthritic condition can even affect other joints, including your ankles. If you have a history of gout flare-ups, you can get effective treatment solutions with board-certified podiatrist Kerry Berg, DPM, of Intermountain Foot & Ankle Associates in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Dr. Berg and her specialized team can help you recover from excruciating gout pain. Book your gout exam through the online scheduler or call the clinic directly.
Gout is a type of arthritis that stems from uric acid buildup in your bloodstream that eventually leads to sharp crystal formations in your joint. Uric acid builds up when your body produces abnormal amounts of it, or when your system struggles to eliminate it quickly enough.
Uric acid is a byproduct of the breakdown of purines. Not only are purines found naturally in your body, they’re also in high concentrations in protein-rich foods like shellfish and other seafood, as well as red meat. Alcohol, especially beer, can also increase uric acid buildup in your body.
But diet isn’t the only thing to blame when it comes to gout flare-ups. Your risk of having this painful condition increases due to:
Taking certain medications, including diuretics, can also increase your risk of having a gout flare-up.
Gout attacks often come on suddenly and unexpectedly. In many cases, gout sufferers explain that their most recent flare-up woke them up in the middle of the night. When you have gout, you might experience any of these issues in your joints, especially your big toe:
Gout pain can become so severe that it gets increasingly difficult to walk or stand on your affected foot. Visit with Dr. Berg at Intermountain Foot & Ankle Associates at the first sign of a flare-up.
Yes, starting with relieving your current pain and inflammation, so you can return to your regular activities. Your gout treatment at Intermountain Foot & Ankle Associates is also designed to help prevent or lower your risk of future gout attacks. These gout solutions can include:
In severe cases, untreated gout can lead to joint damage that requires surgical repair. If this is the issue, Dr. Berg might recommend a minimally invasive procedure to remove large uric acid nodules, fuse bones together, or even replace the joint entirely.
Before your next gout flare-up occurs, see how the team at Intermountain Foot & Ankle Associates can help. Schedule your gout evaluation online or over the phone.
