Gout Treatment
Gout is a form of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to sudden and severe pain, swelling, and inflammation. It most commonly affects the big toe but can also occur in other joints such as the ankles, knees, elbows, wrists, and fingers. At Axis Foot & Ankle, your top foot doctor in Middletown, offers a comprehensive approach to treating gout to alleviate symptoms, reduce flare-ups, and prevent long-term joint damage.
Here’s a detailed guide to the treatments we provide:
1. Diagnosis and Evaluation:
- Purpose: Confirm the presence of gout and assess its severity.
- Description: Your podiatrist will review your medical history, conduct a physical examination of the affected joint(s), and may order blood tests to measure uric acid levels. Joint fluid analysis may also be performed to detect urate crystals.
2. Acute Flare-Up Management:
a. Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs):
- Purpose: Reduce pain and inflammation during flare-ups.
- Description: Medications such as ibuprofen, naproxen, or indomethacin are commonly prescribed to relieve symptoms of acute gout attacks. They help reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation in the affected joints.
b. Colchicine:
- Purpose: Alleviate symptoms and prevent recurrence of gout attacks.
- Description: Colchicine is an anti-inflammatory medication that may be used to treat acute gout attacks or as a preventive measure during initial treatment. It works by reducing inflammation and the movement of white blood cells to the affected area.
c. Corticosteroids:
- Purpose: Provide rapid relief from severe gout symptoms.
- Description: Injections of corticosteroids directly into the affected joint(s) can provide quick and effective pain relief during acute gout attacks. Oral corticosteroids may also be prescribed for patients unable to tolerate NSAIDs or colchicine.
3. Long-Term Management and Prevention:
a. Lifestyle Modifications:
- Purpose: Reduce uric acid levels and prevent gout flare-ups.
- Description: Encourage maintaining a healthy weight, following a balanced diet low in purines (such as red meat, organ meats, and seafood), limiting alcohol consumption (especially beer and spirits), and staying hydrated to help prevent uric acid buildup.
b. Medications to Lower Uric Acid Levels:
- Purpose: Prevent recurrent gout attacks by reducing uric acid production or increasing its elimination.
- Description: Your podiatrist may prescribe medications such as allopurinol, febuxostat, or probenecid to lower uric acid levels in the blood and prevent the formation of urate crystals. These medications are taken daily and require regular monitoring of uric acid levels.
c. Dietary and Nutritional Counseling:
- Purpose: Educate on foods that may trigger gout attacks and promote dietary changes.
- Description: Provide guidance on maintaining a gout-friendly diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products. Avoid or limit intake of purine-rich foods and sugary beverages that can contribute to increased uric acid levels
4. Joint Protection and Support:
a. Orthotic Devices:
- Purpose: Reduce pressure on affected joints and improve foot mechanics.
- Description: Custom orthotic inserts or footwear modifications may be recommended to provide cushioning, support, and proper alignment of the feet and ankles. This can help alleviate stress on joints affected by gout and reduce the risk of future flare-ups.
b. Physical Therapy:
- Purpose: Strengthen muscles and improve joint function.
- Description: A physical therapist can design a program of exercises to improve range of motion, strengthen muscles around affected joints, and promote overall joint health. Therapeutic modalities such as ice or heat therapy may also be used to reduce inflammation and pain.
Why Choose Axis Foot & Ankle?
- Expertise in Gout Management: Our podiatrists specialize in advanced diagnosis and management of gout, using personalized care plans.
- Compassionate Patient Care: We prioritize your comfort and well-being throughout your entire treatment journey.
- Comprehensive Gout Care: From acute flare-up management to long-term prevention strategies and lifestyle counseling, our comprehensive approach effectively manages gout and enhances your quality of life.