Gout
Find management strategies for gout with the support of an experienced podiatrist.
Living With Gout
If you are dealing with the symptoms of gout, you may be experiencing the significant impact it can have on daily life. This condition can affect anyone and often starts suddenly and unexpectedly with a painful attack. For many people, this comes during the night and the pain can be quite severe. The symptoms usually come and go with occasional or regular flare ups.
The good news is there are steps you can take to manage this condition and relieve some of the symptoms. Our Dural podiatrists are experienced in treating gout and providing strategies and interventions. Seeking professional healthcare is important when dealing with gout and has the potential to create more positive outcomes than if left untreated.
What is Gout?
Gout is a form of arthritis that is multifaceted and common. It occurs due to levels of uric acid in the joints that are too high. The body is unable to adequately dissolve the uric acid, and it remains. This results in the forming of hard uric acid crystals, which irritate the joint.
This condition typically affects the large joints that deal with weight-bearing, such as the big ball of foot, ankles, and knees. Other joints that are also often affected by gout include the fingers, elbows, and wrists.
Gout Symptoms
The symptoms of gout can differ for each person and generally come during flare-ups, rather than being a constant issue. Discomfort is often worse during the first four to twelve hours of the attack. For some people, discomfort may remain for a few days or weeks after the severe pain subsides. The more attacks of gout a person has, the longer they may last, and more joints may become involved.
The main symptoms of gout typically include:
- Extremely painful to the touch
- Sudden attacks, often beginning at nighttime.
- Severe, burning joint pain.
- Heat, redness and/or tenderness at the joint.
- Swelling.
- Reduced range of motion in the affected joint.
- Difficult weight bearing.
- Wounds and discharge.
What Causes Gout?
Uric acid, the pivotal factor that leads to gout, is formed during the breakdown of purine when it is ingested and metabolised. This chemical compound is found in certain foods, and some have higher levels than others.
Some foods rich in purine include:
- Shell fish
- Alcohol
- Meat extracts such as gravy
- Mushrooms
- Cauliflower
- Spinach
- Asparagus
- Tinned fish
- Organ and game meat
- Meat in large quantities
- Legumes
- Yeast
Certain medications also contain purine. These include aspirin, cyclosporine, diuretics, niacin, and some drugs used in cancer treatment.
Why Choose Us For Gout Treatment in Dural?
Gout can be a difficult condition to live with, but you do not have to do it alone. Our friendly team of podiatrists will improve your quality of life with reducing your weight bearing joint gout symptoms, getting back to doing the activities you love and Leave The Pain Behind.
Experienced Podiatrists
Our team is highly qualified and experienced in supporting patients with issues related to feet and lower limbs.
High-Quality Resources
We utilise modern tools and equipment to deliver comprehensive care.
Evidence-Based Care
Gout requires specific knowledge and correct intervention. We utilise up-to-date information and evidence to support our treatments.
Gout Treatment – Dural, NSW
If you develop the symptoms of gout, it is usually best to visit your GP, especially if there are signs of infection and open wounds. They can assess the affected joint/s and determine whether medication could be suitable. If gout is left untreated, the attacks may become worse and side issues could occur, such as another type of arthritis, deformed joints, and kidney stones.
As podiatrists, we can fully assess your symptoms and your affected joints and develop a personalised care plan for you. We can provide you with management strategies and care to reduce your discomfort and improve your functionality.
These can include options such as:
- Custom orthotics
- Footwear advice
- Tools to reduce the pressure on your joints and skin
- Lifestyle advice
- Assessment of your skin health and relevant treatment if required
Foot And Leg Pain Centre
Frequently Asked Questions
Once you have a gout diagnosis, medications are often used to prevent or reduce further attacks and symptoms. In terms of lifestyle changes, the following may assist in preventing gout:
- Restrict or avoid purine-rich foods and drinks
- Choose water predominately when drinking
- Exercise
- Maintain a healthy weight
Gout is typically diagnosed based on the appearance of the joint and your symptoms. Diagnostic tests may involve blood tests, x-rays, joint fluid tests, ultrasound, and dual-energy computerised tomography.
Shoes should provide adequate support and stability and be suitable for the type of movement and physical activity you regularly partake in. There should be good ankle and arch support and not be too narrow or short. We can provide personalised guidance regarding the footwear that would be most appropriate for you.
Find Relief With Podiatry Care
If you are dealing with gout symptoms, please contact us to organise your initial consultation. We look forward to supporting you and helping to improve your health and overall well-being.