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Gout: Things that go Ouch! in the night
What comes on suddenly at night and causes severe pain, redness and swelling in joints? If you’ve ever suffered from gout, you’ll know it’s something you want to get seen to, pronto.
Gout is a complex form of arthritis that causes pain and inflammation when too much urid acid crystallises and deposits in the joints.
How do I know I have gout?
- Oh you’ll know about it!
- Attacks occur suddenly, often at night, and the pain is so severe it will wake you
- The affected joint is hot, swollen and so tender even the weight of your bed sheet is intolerable
- Gout usually affects the joint of your big toe, but it can also affect the ankles, knees, elbows, wrists and fingers
- After the most severe pain subsides, there is often lingering discomfort, inflammation, redness and limited joint range of motion
What to do
If you experience sudden, intense pain in a joint, call your doctor ASAP. This is not the time to Dr Google your symptoms. Remember, gout that is left untreated can lead to worsening pain and joint damage.
How Footpoint can help
If you suffer from chronic gout, affected joints often become enlarged and lose their normal range of motion. We can provide you with:
- Custom orthotics to help improve foot function and alleviate pain associated with restricted joint range of motion
- Customise your footwear, to accommodate lumpy, enlarged joints
- Provide footwear advice, and recommendations to reduce irritation of sore joints
Have you suffered from gout in the past? Let us help improve your comfort with custom orthotics and help finding the right footwear for you. Book an appointment with one of our Podiatrists to assess your gout.
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