Gout is a condition that occurs when a joint is stricken with multiple attacks of acute inflammatory arthritis. It most commonly affects the foot, though gout in other joints is not uncommon. It is characterized by swelling, tenderness and bright red discoloration.
Gout is usually caused by excessive levels of hyperuricemia (a uric acid) in the bloodstream, which results from genetics, kidney problems, poor diet, too much meat, or excessive consumption of alcohol. An acute attack, lasting two or more hours is common, and is often accompanied by fever and fatigue. We check the ph level in the urine and saliva, and help return it to a more alkaline level nearer 7.4.
Will the acupuncture be painful?
The most common location of gout is at the joint of the big toe and as can be imagined, it is even extremely painful just to touch. It would also be extremely painful if strong stimulation with local acupuncture points was performed at the swollen area. However, this would not be the case, as the main acupuncture points for gout would be away from the actual area of pain, such as below the knee.