Have you ever complained about a pain in your toe and someone chimes in “maybe it’s gout?” Although gout is a common occurrence in the feet, it is best to be evaluated at our office to be given a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis that typically affects one joint at a time. The big toe, ankles and knees are commonly affected. At the time of an acute flare, one will experience severe pain, redness, swelling and warmth of the affected joint.
Other causes of sudden pain, redness and swelling in the feet and ankles include infection, soft tissue inflammation and other forms of arthritis.
In addition to a clinical exam, blood work and imaging may be prescribed to come to a definitive diagnosis.
Stay tuned for my follow up blog “It’s Gout” where I will go into more detail about those at risk for gout, common causes, treatment and prevention.
