Gout Can Cause Extreme Foot Pain

A gout attack is an extremely painful condition caused when excess uric acid in the blood crystallizes into the peripheral joints of the hands and feet. The large joint of the big toe is frequently affected, and the pain can be so bad that even brushing a sheet over your toe will be unbearable.

Some causes and risk factors for having a gout attack include the following:

• Poor diet—Gout is a form of arthritis that is thought to be caused by eating a diet high in purines that consequently increases the production of uric acid in the blood. Rich foods like fatty meats and seafood like shrimp and lobster can increase uric acid levels.

• Alcoholic beverages—Grain-based alcoholic beverages like bourbon and beer are known to increase uric acid formation.

How to help prevent a gout attack:

• Normalize your blood uric acid levels by avoiding or limiting alcohol and by avoiding purine-rich foods like those mentioned above.

• Low-fat dairy products may also be helpful in decreasing uric acid levels.

• Organic apple cider vinegar and fresh cherry juice are excellent for cleansing the blood of excess uric acid.

• Medicines are available that will lower blood uric acid levels

A gout attack will normally subside after a few days, but keep in mind that repeated attacks on the joints can cause permanent damage.

If you are experiencing painful gout attacks, consult our board-certified podiatrists Andrew Shapiro, DPM, and Michael Barkin, DPM. With access to advanced technologies, along with years of experience to help diagnose and treat a variety of foot and ankle problems, we can assist you with heel pain, ankle sprains, diabetic foot care, toe deformities, nail fungus, and skin problems, among many other conditions. Our practice is conveniently located on West Merrick Road in Valley Stream to accommodate all of your foot care needs. Call (516) 825-3860 or book an appointment online today!