Gout can affect any joint and can also affect more than one joint at a time. However, it most commonly affects the big toe joint. Why?
The blood supply to the toes is much less than to other parts of the body due to the decreased size of the blood vessels. There are two theories about how this can lead to gout at the joint. 1. Periods of inactivity can lead to pooling of the blood (not pumped out of the area as efficiently), and this can cause gout crystals to form in the joint. 2. Due to decreased blood flow in the area, there may be a lower temperature at the joint, which can also cause crystals to form.
For more information on gout, please stay tuned for future updates on this blog or visit my website: www.oakparkpodiatry.com. For an appointment, please contact my office at 708-763-0580.
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