Wrist
Gout
Introduction
Gout
is a condition in which uric acid, a waste product that occurs
naturally occurring within the body, rises above normal levels.
Rather than being flushed by the kidneys and through the urine,
as it normally is, it forms crystals and deposits in the joints.
These deposits give rise to inflammation of the joints,
causing pain, swelling, redness and tenderness of the area.
Most
typically the joint affected is that of the big toe, but gout
can also affect the wrist Uric acid crystals may also form
deposits in other areas such as under the skin or in other
soft tissues, and in the kidney or urinary tract.
Gout
of the Right Wrist: Note swelling and redness over right wrist
area. Left wrist is normal.
Cause
The cause
of gout is an inflammation in your joint resulting from an
accumulation of urate crystals. Uric acid is a waste product
formed from the breakdown of purines. These are substances
found naturally in your body as well as in certain foods,
especially organ meats — such as liver, brains, kidney
and sweetbreads — and anchovies, herring, asparagus
and mushrooms.
Obesity
can be linked to high uric acid levels in the blood. People
who are overweight should consult with their doctor to decide
on a reasonable weight-loss program. Fasting or severe dieting
can actually raise uric acid levels and cause gout to worsen.
Crystal
deposits also cause another condition, known as false gout
(pseudogout). But rather than being composed
of uric acid, pseudogout crystals are made of calcium pyrophosphate
dihydrate. And while pseudogout can affect the big toe, it's
more likely to attack large joints such as your wrists.
Treatment
- Nonsteroidal
anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) taken orally (by mouth)
or corticosteroids, which are taken orally or injected into
the affected joint.
- Prevention
of acute gout involves maintaining adequate fluid intake,
weight reduction, dietary changes, reduction in alcohol
consumption.
- It
is suggested that you wear a splint on your wrist. Ganglion
cysts usually get smaller with less activity, and larger
with more activity.
- Surgery
can be performed to remove the cyst. This is done when cysts
are large and unsightly or painful. They may return even
after properly performed surgery.
Rehabilitation
Prevention
with diet and a healthy lifestyle is better than cure. However,
during a gout attack on the wrist you may find that an elasticated
wrist support will help also a reusable hot and cold will
reduce the inflammation. Freeze the cold pack and apply it
to your wrist.
Recommended
Products for Wrist Gout
Pro
Lite Wrist Splint
The Pro Lite is wrist splint is ideal for weak wrists due
to gout. Stabilizes the wrist while still allowing full movement
of the fingers
Wristlet
Durable
lightweight knitted elastic provides support with flexibility
during a gout attack.
View
other wrist braces
