Patient/caregiver was educated on lifestyle measures in individuals with Gout as follows:
- Individuals with gouty arthritis involving the weightbearing joints of lower extremities can consider swimming and aqua sports for workout. This can help avoid any additional stress on the worn out weightbearing joints and prevent their further deterioration.
- Observe compliance with intake of medications for control of pain and inflammation, as prescribed. Individuals could be prescribed a wide range of pain medications, depending on the intensity of pain and severity of inflammation symptoms.
- Observe compliance with intake of recommended OTC supplements for Vitamin C and glucosamine, if any. This can help with repair of the damaged joint tissues, thus contributing to improved pain control.
- Observe compliance with use of recommended assistive devices, such as, cane, walker, and crutch. Use of the device can help reduce stress/weight on the inflamed joint, giving the joint an opportunity to heal. It can also improve the stability and balance, thus reducing the risk for falls & accidents in individuals with gouty arthritis.
