April 30, 2017 AsktheBuilder Newsletter

This past week I've been struggling working on a remodel job here at my own home because I've been lame.

Not lazy lame, physically lame.

I'm installing a new three-piece American Standard corner shower and a new vanity and sink in our master bathroom.

Last Sunday, I was on my knees all day - yes, I was using knee pads - tearing out the concrete mud tile base and the old shower threshold.

When on your knees, you may have a tendency to bend your toes like I do. The next day I had no soreness or issues at all.

I woke up on Tuesday morning and my right foot was hurting. It was pain near the base of my big toe. It got worse as the day went on and by dinner, I was in severe pain and could barely walk.

I'm pretty much convinced, based on the symptoms, it was gout. What's odd is I don't fit the profile of the primary causes of this condition.

I don't drink alcohol. I don't smoke. I don't eat the crazy meats like liver, kidney, etc. that are high in the chemical compound that trigger gout. Finally, we rarely have red meat here at the Carter Casa. Eating lots of red meat can trigger gout so the experts say.

I iced my foot, I did all sorts of stuff and made no progress as the days wore on. It was so tender that the weight of a thin top sheet felt like my foot was being stabbed by fifty knives.

Finally, I decided yesterday to try to treat the symptoms with pineapple juice. My good friend Jim Cluett said to soak my foot in Epsom salts.

I did both yesterday and woke up this morning in great shape! I have minor discomfort but the swelling is gone and I can walk normally!

Here's to pineapple juice and Epsom salt!

My mom was one of the first women pharmacists in the state of Ohio back in the early 1950s. She swore that Epsom salt is the universal healing soaking solution. She also swore swabbing sore throats with some red lava solution was a smart thing to do, but that's a story for another day.

I remember her making me soak my feet in a warm solution of Epsom salts for all sorts of problems. I hadn't done it in years.

She may be right!

CLICK HERE to have some magic Epsom salt delivered to your home this week.

Seriously, click that link and see all the things it can help with.