Weight gain, flu bugs, and chronic stress tend to take the spotlight when people consider the health concerns of the holiday season. However, StayFIT Physical Therapy in Aiea, HI, notes that gout flare-ups are another health hazard people should consider before settling into their wintertime routine. Whether you’ve experienced gout flare-ups before or are concerned about your risk, this Oahu physical therapy center offers more insight to help you avoid problems.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by high levels of uric acid — a chemical compound produced by the breakdown of certain foods. High uric acid levels cause severe inflammation of joints, such as those within the big toe, and can lead to increased sensitivity, swelling, redness, and chronic pain.

How Do the Holidays Increase the Risk of Flare-Ups?

Flare-ups can occur when individuals consume high amounts of foods or beverages known to encourage uric acid production — including organ meats, seafood, and alcohol. During the holidays, people at risk of gout are more likely to experience these triggers, particularly during Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s parties.

What Can People Do to Avoid Gout Flare-Ups Over the Holidays?

Eat Smart

Organ meats and shrimp cocktail are best avoided, but individuals should also watch out for high-salt foods, as sodium can trigger attacks. When stuffing stockings, people should also choose sweets carefully, as high-fructose corn syrup can stimulate uric acid production.

Drink Safe

Although holiday parties are a time for revelry, a night of heavy drinking can dramatically spike a flare-up risk. As such, it’s best to consume alcoholic beverages as sparingly as possible. It’s also incredibly helpful to stay hydrated, as fluid helps eliminate uric acid buildup.  

Relax

If holiday stress is experienced too often, a person may lose nutrients that help flush uric acids and limit the body’s natural immune response. That’s why it’s critical to give the body a break and rest as needed.

How Does Physical Therapy Help Flare-Ups?

When flare-ups occur, it’s essential to talk to a doctor who can diagnose the problem and prescribe medications to limit inflammation. However, if you want to speed up healing and prevent future flare-ups, physical therapy is another effective resource.

While gout pain can make movement difficult, a physical therapist can help you stretch out affected joints to restore mobility in a way that doesn’t cause further stress. They may also offer additional treatments, such as massage therapy, to promote absorption of uric acid or cold therapy to reduce painful swelling.

When you’re looking to minimize gout symptoms through these methods, the specialists at StayFIT Physical Therapy offer comprehensive resources to put you on the path toward healing. Through one-on-one consultations, these clinics in Aiea and Kapolei, HI, are able to develop customized gout treatment plans that utilize a wide range of therapies. Visit the team online to learn more about these services and discover what makes them the best physical therapists on Oahu. To schedule an appointment, contact a friendly representative at (808) 487-0487.