Gout is a fairly common inflammatory condition worldwide. Here in the U.S., an estimated 8.3 million adults live with gout. That represents nearly 4% of the adult population. The good news is that a skilled podiatrist can help a patient manage gout effectively. When managed, the condition doesn’t have to substantially disrupt a patient’s life.
The question for many patients is how to know when it is time to see a podiatrist. Between insurance restrictions and the need to get a referral, seeing a podiatrist isn’t necessarily easy. So is it worth the hassle of pushing a GP for a referral? Is it worth the hassle of fighting with your insurance company?
The Basics of Gout
Before answering those very pressing questions, a brief discussion on gout is a good idea. Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis that manifests itself in sudden and severe attacks of pain, swelling, and joint tenderness. In many people, the condition starts in the big toe.
Gout is actually caused by excess uric acid in the blood. Crystals of uric acid accumulate in the joints, leading to inflammation and pain. The pain can be debilitating at times.
People with a genetic disposition to high uric acid are at a heightened risk of developing gout. But genetics aside, the most notable contributors to this condition are:
- A diet high in purines.
- Established kidney disease.
- Other underlying medical conditions.
- Long term use of certain medications.
Some of the other underlying conditions related to gout are diabetes, hypertension (high blood pressure), and obesity. When such is the case, a patient may need care from both a podiatrist and a GP.
Signs You Need to See a Podiatrist
If you have gout and have managed to keep it under control thus far, you may have no need for podiatry services. Still, it can’t hurt to see a podiatrist now and then. But if you feel like your symptoms are flaring up more frequently, or you are dealing with more pain than usual, perhaps it’s time for a referral.
With that in mind, here are some clear signs that it’s time to see a podiatrist:
- Severe Pain – If your pain is more frequent or severe, it could be a sign that your condition is worsening. A podiatrist can help you get it back under control.
- Medication Isn’t Working – Your GP may have already prescribed medication. If that medication is no longer working effectively, seeing a podiatrist is probably a good idea.
- Regular Attacks – An occasional attack is normal for gout patients. But if your attacks are more frequent, there may be something else going on. Consider seeing a podiatrist.
- Reduced Range of Motion – Losing range of motion is never a good thing for gout patients. Definitely ask for a podiatry referral if you are experiencing this complication.
- Lingering Pain – Gout pain tends to subside once the inflammation goes down. If you have noticed pain lingering well beyond that point, it is worth seeing a podiatrist.
Definitely get a referral for podiatry services if you feel like your gout is chronic. Left untreated, chronic gout only continues causing more problems. That is the last thing you want. It is better to go through the effort of getting a referral than allowing gout to run your life.
Gout is among the many conditions we treat here at Beyond Podiatry. If you’re concerned about your foot health, our providers can help. Make an appointment at the nearest Beyond Podiatry clinic as soon as you can. Better foot health could be in your future.