Is It Gout or Something Else? Understanding Sudden Foot Pain

You wake up and suddenly your foot feels hot, swollen, and painful to touch. Even the pressure from your bedsheet hurts. What’s going on?

It might be gout — but there are also other foot conditions that can cause similar pain. At The Foot and Lower Limb Clinic, we help people every day who are dealing with unexpected foot pain. Let’s walk you through how to spot the signs of gout, what else it could be, and how podiatry can help.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a build-up of uric acid in the blood. When uric acid levels get too high, it can form sharp crystals that settle in the joints — especially in the big toe.

These crystals trigger sudden, intense inflammation. That’s why gout attacks can feel so dramatic, often appearing overnight.

Common Symptoms of Gout

If you’ve ever had a gout flare-up, you’ll likely notice:

• Sudden, sharp pain in the joint (often the big toe)

• Red, hot, or shiny skin around the area

• Swelling and tenderness

• Pain that comes and goes in flares

• Difficulty putting weight on the foot

Gout can affect other joints too — like the ankles, knees, or fingers — but the big toe is the most common spot.

Could It Be Something Else?

Not all foot pain is gout. Similar symptoms can also come from:

• Bunions – a bony lump on the side of the big toe joint

• Infected ingrown toenail – redness, swelling, and pain in the toe

• Trauma or sprain – from bumping or twisting the foot without realising

• Other types of arthritis – such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis

• Cellulitis – a skin infection that causes swelling, redness, and heat

That’s why a proper podiatry assessment is so important — so we can get to the root of your pain and treat it the right way.

How Podiatry Can Help with Gout

At The Foot and Lower Limb Clinic, we take the time to understand your symptoms and health history.

If we suspect gout, we can:

• Work with your GP to confirm diagnosis and arrange blood tests

• Recommend footwear changes to protect sore joints

• Provide padding or custom orthotics to reduce pressure during flare-ups

• Help with managing pain and preventing future flares

• Offer guidance on diet and lifestyle changes that support your treatment plan

Managing gout is about more than just pain relief — it’s about preventing long-term joint damage and keeping you comfortable on your feet.

Don’t Just “Wait It Out”

Sudden foot pain shouldn’t be ignored — especially if it keeps happening or makes it hard to walk. Even one untreated gout attack can increase the risk of joint damage down the line.

Whether it’s gout or something else, we’re here to help.

📍Book an appointment at our Colne or Brighouse clinic today. Let’s get to the bottom of your foot pain and help you move comfortably again.