Description

Wearing appropriate footwear is an important consideration for gout patients, particularly those with frequent attacks affecting the feet. A study by Rome et al. (2011) in Arthritis Care & Research found that gout patients often experienced foot-related pain, impairment, and disability, which could be exacerbated by ill-fitting shoes. Another study by Stewart et al. (2014) in the Journal of Foot and Ankle Research demonstrated that gout patients had specific footwear preferences and requirements, often opting for comfort over style. The importance of proper footwear in managing foot-related symptoms was highlighted in a review by Roddy et al. (2013), which emphasized the need for shoes that accommodate tophi and provide adequate cushioning. While there are limited studies specifically examining the impact of footwear on gout outcomes, research in related conditions like osteoarthritis has shown benefits. A randomized controlled trial by Hinman et al. (2016) found that appropriate footwear could reduce pain and improve function in people with knee osteoarthritis. The ACR guidelines (Khanna et al., 2012) do not provide specific recommendations on footwear, but many rheumatologists advise gout patients to wear comfortable, supportive shoes that do not put pressure on affected joints.