Treatment Options for Gout

Gout is a painful metabolic disorder caused by a build-up of uric acid in the joints. Although any joint can be affected, the big toe is the most common location for an episode of gout. If you experience the painful symptoms of gout near Houston , visit a foot doctor for treatment.

For gout, your foot and ankle specialist may provide medications to reduce swelling and inflammation and manage pain. Drinking plenty of water each day will help flush the uric acid out of your body. Your foot doctor may also suggest dietary restrictions, particularly avoiding foods that are high in purines that are converted to uric acid by the body. Elevating your foot will also help with swelling.

If you have repeated episodes of gout, you may develop gouty arthritis, which causes erosion of the surface of the impacted joint. If this occurs, you may need surgery to repair the joint and clear out uric acid crystals.