Gout refers to a buildup of uric acid in the joints and causes swelling, pain, and redness, particularly in your large toe, which can be severe enough to send you to a podiatrist. Episodes of pain can come randomly and last for over a week, but learning to manage them will help you through it. Below is a brief guide to in-home care and how your foot doctor can help.

In-Home

A gout attack can last for several weeks, but the sooner you begin treatment, the shorter and less severe it will be. As soon as your gout attack begins, take over-the-counter pain relievers, ideally a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) such as ibuprofen. Avoid aspirin and alcohol, as they can worsen the attack.

Elevate your foot and keep your weight off of it, as pressure on the joint increases discomfort. Ice packs may also relieve the swelling and pain. Drinking juices high in vitamin C, like cherry or citrus juices, will help decrease uric acid levels in your body, lessening the duration and severity of the attack. Stress can also worsen gout, so relax with activities like reading or meditation.

In the Office

While at-home remedies ease your discomfort, they’re only acute treatments that don’t manage the condition overall. Seeing a reliable podiatrist for your distress will enable effective relief, reduce symptoms when you have an attack, and lower the chance of another attack.

They can also diagnose your pain to make sure gout is the issue and prescribe medications that lower uric acid levels. After taking medication from your podiatrist during an attack, you should notice the pain and swelling have improved within 24 hours. Your doctor will also recommend or create custom orthotics and shoes to reduce pain by redistributing pressure away from problem areas.

If you think you have gout, the podiatrist at St. Peters Foot & Ankle: Samual T. Wood-DPM, will provide an accurate diagnosis and prompt treatment to alleviate your pain. With a location in St. Peters, MO, and another in Florissant, MO, they’ve provided reliable foot care for over 20 years. Their compassionate treatments include medicine, custom orthotics, and recommended lifestyle changes to minimize your symptoms. You can read more about their services online, and call (636) 720-0190 to schedule a consultation.