The Disease of Kings

Written by:  Melanie Talastas-Soriano BA-Kin, CAT(C)
                   Athletic Therapist
 
You’re probably wondering what we’re talking about. What is the disease of kings?
​
We are talking about “gout.” Gout is a type of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in a joint. It causes intense pain and swelling around one or more joints. The most commonly affected joint is at the base of the big toe. (The Mayo Clinic)
 
Anyone can be affected by gout, but study shows that it is common for men to experience the disease. The simple reason that only the kings/rich can afford to consume diets rich in meats and high consumption of alcohol is where the title of disease of kings came from. (The Weird History YouTube channel)
 
In addition, not only the high consumption of rich in meat and alcohol can contribute to developing gout but also:

• Diuretic medications: that can increase uric acid.
• Hereditary: a family member that has gout.
• Medical condition: diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease can increase the risk of gout.
• Age and gender: men have higher concentration of uric acid and early stages 30-50 years old. Women have lower uric acid that men but can be affected after menopause.
• Obesity: being overweight is a risk factor because the body produces more uric acid.

(The Mayo Clinic)
  
Although treating gout is not part of Athletic Therapy’s scope of practice, we recommend that you talk to your doctor to confirm what you have. After the inflammation has subsided and you are serious about getting better, we can help with some aspects of healthy lifestyle change. Prevention is key. Here are some suggestions on what you can do to reduce future gout attack.

• Drink plenty of fluids
• Reduce consumption of meat, seafood and poultry
• Limit or avoid alcohol
• Get your protein from low-fat dairy products
• Maintain a healthy weight based on your body mass index

(The Mayo Clinic)

---

How can Athletic Therapy help you?
Most often when your doctor sees you, he/she may say improve diet and exercise to help prevent the future attack of gout. What does that mean? For the diet portion, you can be referred to a dietician or a nutritionist. They will give you suggestions on new food you can start consuming and the amount. Keep an open mind for new food and new habits to adapt to a new lifestyle change.
​
For the exercise portion, an Athletic Therapist can help you start your active lifestyle program. This is the pain-free period of your gout attack where you can tolerate walking, moving and standing so that we start with rehab exercises specific for you. Not only do these specific exercises help you get stronger, but it also can help maintain your healthy weight. It is a good decision to see an Athletic Therapist because they specialize in exercise and specific joint rehabilitation. We are ready for you if you are.

Book your appointment with us via email [email protected].
Online booking will be available soon!

---