Physical Therapy for Gout

What is Gout?
Gout is a painful form of arthritis. When your body has extra uric acid, sharp crystals can form in your joints (commonly your big toe). Flare-ups of symptoms like pain and swelling come and go in periods called gout attacks. Treatment is usually a combination of symptom management and changing your diet.

Clinical Signs and Symptoms of Gout:
Gout attacks are very painful and can happen suddenly without a specific known event causing pain. Symptoms may include pain, discoloration or redness, stiffness, swelling, tenderness (even to light touch) and warmth.

Physical Therapy treatment for Gout:
If Gout is suspected your physical therapist will refer you to your primary care physician (PCP) for further testing including imaging and/or blood work. Prevention with diet, lifestyle changes and medications can help you avoid future gout attacks. Physical therapy can assist in gout, both during and after attacks, with pain management and incorporating exercises to manage symptoms and maintain joint mobility and strength. A physical therapist can also help assist in setting up a cardiovascular exercise routine to manage uric acid levels.