Gout: Understanding the Sudden Foot Pain That Won’t Let You Walk

Waking up with a red, swollen, and painfully tender big toe? You might be experiencing a gout flare-up. Gout is a type of arthritis that often appears without warning—and when it does, it can be excruciating. Fortunately, it’s also highly manageable with the right diagnosis and care.

At Third Coast Foot & Ankle, we help patients recognize the signs of gout, treat painful flare-ups, and prevent long-term joint damage.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. Uric acid is a normal waste product in your body, but when levels become too high—either from overproduction or reduced elimination—it can form needle-like crystals in your joints, triggering intense inflammation.

The big toe joint is the most commonly affected area, but gout can also strike the ankles, knees, and other joints in the foot.

What Causes Gout?

Several factors can increase your risk of developing gout, including:

  • Diet high in purines (found in red meat, seafood, alcohol, and sugary drinks)

  • Obesity or metabolic syndrome

  • Dehydration

  • Certain medications (like diuretics)

  • Genetics or family history of gout

  • Kidney disease or poor kidney function

Gout can occur in anyone, but it’s more common in men over 40 and postmenopausal women.

Common Symptoms of Gout

A gout attack often comes on suddenly—many people describe waking up in the night with:

  • Intense, stabbing pain in the big toe or another joint

  • Swelling and warmth in the affected area

  • Red or purple skin discoloration

  • Extreme tenderness (even a bedsheet touching the toe may hurt)

  • Limited joint movement once the swelling sets in

Flare-ups can last from a few days to a couple of weeks. Without treatment, they may become more frequent and affect additional joints.

How We Diagnose and Treat Gout

At Third Coast Foot & Ankle, we begin with a physical exam, symptom history, and, if needed, imaging or lab tests to check your uric acid levels and rule out other causes of joint pain.

Treatment options may include:

  • Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling

  • Corticosteroid injections for rapid relief during flare-ups

  • Prescription medications to lower uric acid levels

  • Dietary counseling to avoid gout-triggering foods

  • Hydration and lifestyle support to prevent future flares

Preventing Future Gout Attacks

Once you've had a gout attack, it's important to take steps to prevent another. We’ll help you build a plan that includes:

  • Managing weight and blood sugar

  • Avoiding high-purine foods and alcohol

  • Staying well-hydrated

  • Monitoring your uric acid levels

  • Wearing supportive footwear to reduce joint stress

With the right combination of medical care and lifestyle changes, most patients can go months—or even years—without another flare-up.

Don’t Let Gout Keep You Off Your Feet

If you're experiencing sudden, severe foot pain or recurring joint issues, don’t wait. Early treatment can reduce pain, prevent joint damage, and improve your quality of life.

📞 Call 262-821-1588 to schedule an evaluation at Third Coast Foot & Ankle.

We’re here to help you take every step in comfort—and without the fear of another flare-up.