"Is Heel Pain a Sign of Gout?"
There are various causes of heel pain in patients, not all of which are due to gout. Therefore, patients are advised to promptly visit a hospital for a diagnosis and undergo relevant examinations under the guidance of a doctor.
I. Possible Gout:
If the patient has hyperuricemia or a history of gout, it may be related to an acute gout attack, manifested as severe redness, swelling, heat, and pain in the heel area. Blood tests typically reveal significantly elevated uric acid levels, and dual-source CT scans can show a large amount of urate crystal deposition in soft tissues, aiding in differential diagnosis.
II. Not Gout:
1. Trauma: Recent external impact or sprains may lead to local muscle damage or even fractures, causing the aforementioned symptoms.
2. Osteoarthritis: As people age, organ functions decline gradually, and degenerative changes may occur in joints, forming bone spurs that irritate surrounding nerves.
3. Rheumatoid Arthritis: Usually caused by autoimmune disorders, inflammatory reactions occur in affected areas, stimulating local tissues and presenting similar symptoms.
4. Lumbar Disc Herniation: Primarily associated with prolonged sitting, excessive physical labor, pregnancy, and other factors, it can manifest when the spinal cord and nerve roots are compressed.
Apart from the above common causes, other conditions such as Achilles tendonitis and calcaneal epiphysitis may also be present. In daily life, it is essential to rest adequately and avoid prolonged standing or walking to alleviate discomfort.
