Gout is a form of arthritis caused by an excessive amount of uric acid in one or more joints. The buildup of uric acid causes glass-like crystals to form in your joint, resulting in inflammation and mild to severe pain. Gout attacks are painful and, if left untreated, can cause permanent joint damage.
Symptoms
The most common symptom of gout is a sudden flare-up of pain in a joint and it usually occurs at night. The joint feels hot and becomes swollen, red and tender. An initial gout attack most commonly happens in the big toe, but it can also occur in the ankle, knee, finger, elbow and wrist. A small number of people experience pain in more than one joint.
Risk Factors
Many risk factors are associated with gout. It is, however, possible to develop gout even if you do not have any of the risk factors. Gout most often occurs in men over the age of 40, and it usually affects women after menopause. Lifestyle factors including obesity, a high purine diet, crash dieting, excessive alcohol consumption and a high intake of high-fructose beverages are all common risk factors. Certain medical conditions, such as heart attacks, strokes, high blood pressure, kidney and thyroid disorders, and anemia, can trigger a gout attack. Some medications, as well as genetics, can also play a role in gout.
Benefits of Exercise
Exercise is an important part of anybody's lifestyle, and it is crucial for those who suffer from gout. Since gout is linked to obesity, exercise combined with a healthy diet helps you maintain a healthy weight. This ultimately leads to the reduction of high uric acid levels. However, losing weight too quickly can also trigger a gout attack due to a rapid lowering of uric acid levels. Exercise allows the muscles, ligaments and joints of the affected area to stay strong. A strong joint is less likely to be affected by a gout attack.
Types of Exercises
You can do a variety of exercises to treat gout. Consult your doctor about which exercise program is best for your body. Range of motion, or ROM, exercises are those that focus on stretching. Stretching will improve your ability to move your joints and eliminate stiffness. Strength training and endurance activities improve your muscle and joint strength. Beneficial ROM, strength and endurance exercises include yoga, tai chi, walking, jogging and bicycling. It important to know your body and what you are capable of doing. Do not push yourself too hard, and never exercise during a flare-up.
Water Exercise
If your gout attacks cause severe pain or if you are elderly, water exercise is another option you should consider. Less stress is placed on your joints during water exercise and, due to the amount of resistance water provides, your muscles and joints will still receive an effective workout. Water exercise allows you to work every muscle and joint without putting a significant amount of strain on your body.
