According to a study conducted by Bridget Teevan Burke of Johns Hopkins University, older individuals suffering from gout and hyperuricemia are more likely to have limited function of the lower extremities. The study included 5,819 participants; 10% reportedly suffered from gout and 21% suffered from hyperuricemia. The study concluded that participants suffering from gout had a slower walking speed and a lower Short Physical Performance Battery score compared to those without the disease. Assistant professor Mara McAdams DeMarco stated, “We were surprised to see that these associations were limited to lower extremity function. However, this makes sense given that the most common localizations of affected joints are in the lower extremity.”
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you have any concerns regarding gout, consult with Dr. Yeon Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
What is Gout?
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.
People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.
Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Roselle, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and holistic treatment protocols for all your individual foot and ankle needs.
