February 2025
How to Identify Gout

Gout is a form of arthritis that often affects the big toe, causing sudden and intense pain. It occurs when uric acid builds up in the bloodstream, forming sharp crystals in the joints. This usually happens when the body produces too much uric acid or does not excrete enough through the kidneys. Symptoms of gout in the big toe include extreme pain, swelling, redness, and warmth in the joint, typically occurring suddenly, often at night. The pain can be so intense that even the lightest touch, like the weight of a blanket, can feel unbearable. Treatment for gout involves medications to reduce inflammation and pain, such as NSAIDs, colchicine, or corticosteroids. Long-term management includes medications to lower uric acid levels and dietary changes, such as reducing alcohol and high-purine foods. A podiatrist can help manage gout, provide pain relief, and recommend lifestyle changes. If you are experiencing this condition, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.
Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Gregory Rorick, DPM from Rorick Podiatry, PC. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.
Symptoms
- Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
- Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
- Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
- Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility
Risk Factors
- Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
- Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
- Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
- Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
- Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
- Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout
Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in New York Mills, Utica, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
How Aging Affects the Health of Your Feet

As individuals age, several changes occur in the feet that can lead to discomfort and mobility issues. One common change is dry skin, which becomes more prominent as the skin loses moisture and elasticity with age. This can lead to cracking and irritation. Another effect is the shortening of the Achilles tendon, which can cause tightness in the back of the ankle and difficulty walking or climbing stairs. Aging can also contribute to the development of flat feet, as the arches may collapse over time, leading to pain and instability. Hammertoe, a condition where the toes become bent at an abnormal angle, often develops due to muscle imbalances and changes in foot structure. Additionally, toenails may become thicker, more brittle, or discolored as blood circulation decreases and overall foot health declines. If you are elderly and have developed any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and offer you an effective foot care routine.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Gregory Rorick, DPM from Rorick Podiatry, PC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
The Elderly and Their Feet
As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.
Common Conditions
- Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
- Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
- Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
- Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
- Shoes that don’t fit properly
- Pressure sores
- Loss of circulation in legs & feet
- Edema & swelling of feet and ankles
Susceptible Infections
Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in New York Mills, Utica, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.