Physiotherapy
Gout can cause joint inflammation and changes and can therefore also be treated physiotherapeutically. A targeted training program can also reduce overweight or unfavorable static as an additional joint stress. It is important to train the affected joints only in intervals without attacks.
During an acute attack of gout, the joint should be spared. In physiotherapy, cryotherapy, compression bandages, manual lymphatic drainage or gentle pain-free mobilizations can be considered for this purpose. During the attack-free interval, the joint function should be maintained and improved by a targeted mobilization program.
In addition to active exercises, techniques from manual therapy can also be used. If the joint mechanics are clearly limited, it is important to avoid possible consequential damage to other joints by stabilizing them muscularly, consciously perceiving evasive mechanisms and relieving postures and avoiding them if possible. The underlying metabolic disease cannot be treated by physiotherapeutic treatment, but balanced exercise training generally leads to an improved metabolic situation and promotes the removal of metabolic waste products, which can alleviate the symptoms of gout.
Exercises
For all joints, movement in the physiological range of motion improves the metabolic situation in the joint, strengthens the cartilage and maintains joint function. Gout leads to deposits in the joint, the bursae and tendons. Appropriate exercise therapy can improve the metabolic situation and mobilize the tissue.
The metatarsophalangeal joint of the big toe is particularly often affected. 1) The joint can be actively mobilized by gripping exercises or by spreading the toe. Passive mobilization exercises in which the patient independently grips the toe and mobilizes the joint partners against each other are also possible.
The mobilization can be performed 15-20 times per direction of movement in 3 sets, if necessary several times a day. Overloading must be strictly avoided, and the exercise should be stopped if pain occurs. 2) For the mobilization of other joints, it is important to train with a reduction in weight if possible.Movements for the lower extremities that are easy on the joints are found when cycling or on the cross-trainer. The range of motion should be increased slowly during the exercises. You can find more exercises in the article Mobilization exercises
