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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