Can Gout travel up the leg?

I have pseudo gout which works in much the same way and mine started in my right big toe, then a year or so later my right ankle, then it went to my right knee (which is where it causes me most problems),  currently I get pain in my right hip, my left knee, and occasionally my left hip.  An acute attack means the area is red, swollen, and hot.  I rarely get acute attacks now - mine is mostly chronic now - meaning it is rarely red and hot but more often swollen and painful.  I use a NSAID gel (cant take the tablets as they make my stomach bleed) - rest, and use ice packs.  I dont bother to see the doctor with it as it goes off after 24 hrs.  If you have never been diagnosed though you really should see the doctor for a proper diagnosis and ask for a referral to the orthopaedic consultants.

Dear Scoleo: I agree with Kersey that you should see your doctor since you have never been diagnosed with gout. In my case, I have seen my PCP and an Orthopedic specialist. From my H&P info, the physical exams, lab work, various x-rays and ultrasounds and knee taps I know that I have gout and rheumatoid arthritis. From my perspective, having the correct diagnoses has helped me to understand more fully what is happening when I start to get a tingle in the joint of one of my fingers (usually an omen to an upcoming gout attack) or why one of my knees crack and hurt (arthritis).I also cannot take NSAIDs (note: the FDA is issuing new warnings on some of the NSAIDs) but taking Colchicine for a few days when I feel a gout attack coming on has really helped me. I have also started to get injections in my knee and this has helped ease the pain.

Good luck and see your doctor, Orthopedic specialist and perhaps a Rheumatologist.