Using Compression to Manage Gout Pain and Symptoms

Using Compression to Manage Gout Pain and Symptoms

For those suffering from gout, finding ways to relieve the often sudden and severe joint pain represents a major priority. Strategies like applying compression to affected extremities provides one option to potentially decrease swelling and improve mobility.

Understanding Gout

Gout results from elevated levels of uric acid crystallizing in the joints, most commonly in the big toe. Intense flares of inflammatory arthritis cause debilitating pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness.

Compression offers a simple way patients can self-manage gout discomfort, especially when applied during early stages. Using compression may benefit gout management when used appropriately and in conjunction with other treatments.

Why Compression Helps With Gout Symptoms

Several factors make compression garments or wraps an effective tool for combatting gout flares including:

• Supports lymphatic drainage to remove waste products like uric acid
• Reduces fluid buildup and soft tissue inflammation
• Improves localized blood flow
• Immobilizes and stabilizes joint
• Prevents warmth loss

Research on using compression for gout specifically remains limited. But extensive evidence exists demonstrating compression mitigates pain and swelling for injuries and conditions involving inflammation like arthritis and tendonitis.

Effectively Using Compression for Gout

Various methods allow using compression to address gout discomfort, but proper technique matters.

Wraps, Sleeves, & Stockings

Specialty stores offer compression sleeves for the ankle and foot, knee sleeves, or full-length stockings ideal for gout in the lower extremity. Wrapping the area with an elastic bandage also works.

Gradient Compression

Gradient compression garments feature the highest level of pressure farthest from the heart, then gradually decrease up the limb. This style works best to counteract gravity and circulate fluid and waste products trapped near inflamed joints.

Proper Fit

Compression must balance applying adequate pressure without overly constricting circulation or causing discomfort behind a tingling sensation. It should feel snug but not painfully tight or cut off normal nerve sensations and capillary refill.

Correct Use

Because compression fights gravity, elevating gout-affected extremities also proves beneficial. Avoid applying any compression directly over painful gout nodules. Rotate stockings daily to allow full skin recovery.

Complementary Gout Treatments

While often helpful for managing painful gout episodes, compression cannot remove excess uric acid alone. Some complementary treatment approaches include:

• Medications - Prescriptions to control acute flares and prevent recurrence
• Dietary Changes - Limiting purine-rich foods and alcohol intake
• Staying Hydrated - Drinking plenty of non-sugary fluids
• Applying Ice - To relieve pain and decrease inflammation

Using compression alongside other methods prescribed by your physician provides the best odds of effectively controlling gout.

Risks and Special Considerations for Compression & Gout

While often extremely beneficial, some risks and considerations exist regarding using compression for gout pain including:

Underlying Health Conditions

Serious vascular conditions like deep vein thrombosis or peripheral arterial disease can worsen with improper compression. Seek medical guidance first if you have circulatory or blood-clotting issues.

Skin Integrity

Compression placed over open wounds, burns, infections, or irritated skin may cause further harm. Inspect your skin and treat any pre-existing skin conditions first.

Nerve Impact

Immediately remove compression if experiencing new numbness, tingling, color changes, or worsened swelling as this may indicate constriction of nerves or blood flow.

Duration of Use

Avoid extended compression use without breaks as it can eventually also constrict fluid drainage needed to clear uric acid. Rotate areas of compression every few hours.

Underlying Uric Acid Levels

No amount of external compression removes excess uric acid buildup from the blood. Work with your doctor to better manage gout long-term instead of only relying on compression for symptomatic relief.

When to Seek Emergency Gout Care

Though often helpful as a supportive self-care approach, compression cannot treat severe gout complications. Seek prompt medical attention if you experience:

• Difficulty walking/moving the joint
• Fever, chills, nausea, vomiting
• Skin redness extending far beyond the joint
• Fatigue, confusion, chest pain, difficulty breathing
• Persistent numbness/tingling or loss of pulse beyond compression

Signs like these may indicate infection, kidney problems from untreated gout, pseudogout, or other serious issues requiring urgent evaluation. Dont delay contacting your physician when confronting worrisome symptoms.

Using Compression to Best Advantage

Anecdotal evidence strongly supports using compression sleeves, stockings, wraps, and supportive footwear to help decrease pain and swelling during gout flares. Consider compression a helpful tool to pair with rest, medications, ice, elevating your leg, and avoiding additional trauma or pressure on the affected joint.

Work closely with your doctor if considering compression wraps or garments to ensure proper use and evaluate any concerns about complications or contraindications. Avoid relying solely on compression instead of also addressing underlying uric acid levels and related lifestyle factors.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.