Gout
There is a significant relationship between gout and osteo-arthritis, particularly in the foot. Gout is a build-up of sodium urate concentration in the blood; although blood tests can be helpful, they are not 100% diagnostic. Acute gout can be very painful; red, hot, swollen and painful; disabling and reduces the everyday limits of physical activity.
Chronic gout produces tophi eruptions which are white tissue.
Podiatrists have an important role to play in the treatment of gout in the foot. Diagnosis is important as well as information about medications. This is best done in conjunction with your General Practitioner.