Gout is a type of arthritis that occurs when too much uric acid builds up in the body, leading to inflammation and pain in the joints. It most commonly affects the big toe, but can also affect the ankles, knees, and other joints.
The main symptoms of gout are severe pain, redness, and swelling in the affected joint. The pain is often described as burning or stabbing and is usually worse at night. Gout attacks can last for a few days to a few weeks and can occur periodically or chronically.
If you suffer from gout, physiotherapy can help reduce your symptoms and improve your overall quality of life. Physiotherapy at home is a great option as it allows you to receive treatment in the comfort of your own home and on your own schedule.
How physiotherapy can help you
- Reduce inflammation and pain in the affected joint
- Improve flexibility and mobility in the affected joint
- Strengthen muscles surrounding the joint to improve stability
- Use of heat therapy to increase blood flow and decrease pain and stiffness
- Use of cold therapy to decrease inflammation and numb the area to reduce pain
- Education on lifestyle changes that can help manage and prevent gout
- Provide personalised treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and goals
- Helping to manage stress, as stress can increase inflammation and trigger gout attacks
- Provide guidance for exercise program, as well as monitor progress
Exercises such as range of motion exercises and gentle stretching can help to improve flexibility and mobility in the affected joint. Strengthening exercises for the muscles surrounding the joint can also help to improve stability and reduce the risk of future gout attacks.
Heat therapy, such as using a hot water bottle or heat pad, can help to increase blood flow to the affected joint and reduce pain and stiffness. Cold therapy, such as using an ice pack, can help to decrease inflammation and numb the area to reduce pain.
In addition to these techniques, physiotherapy can also help to educate you on lifestyle changes that can help to manage and prevent gout. This can include dietary changes, such as reducing the intake of foods high in purines, which can increase uric acid levels in the body. They can also help you with learning ways to manage stress, as stress can increase inflammation and trigger gout attacks.
Overall, physiotherapy at home can be a very effective way to manage gout symptoms and improve your overall quality of life. It’s always best to consult with a physiotherapist before starting any exercise program. They can provide you with a personalised treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs and goals.
For more information please contact us on 0330 335 1016 or alternatively please fill out our contact sheet and we will get back to you.