Treatment and diagnostics gout in Koyan, South Korea

Gout, or the “disease of kings,” is a chronic recurrent inflammation of the joints caused by deposition of uric acid crystals on their surfaces. The etiology lies in a metabolic disorder in which the concentration of this substance in the blood rises. Triggers for gout may include genetic factors, irrational nutrition, abuse of alcoholic drinks, kidney disease, and other causes. Treatment of gout in Koyan is a combination of medication and physiotherapy together with the development of healthy everyday habits.

The following methods are used to diagnose gout in Koyan:

• laboratory blood tests for rheumatoid factor, metabolic disorders, C-reactive protein, etc.,
• puncture and examination of synovial fluid,
• ultrasound of joints and surrounding structures,
• MRI of the joint and soft tissues,
• targeted digital radiography.

Differentiation of the disease is usually straightforward, and an experienced physician can establish the diagnosis immediately after the test results are obtained.

The following methods are used for treatment:

• pharmacotherapy with modern drugs (uric acid excretion inhibitors, NSAIDs, bicarbonates, analgesics, etc.),
• physiotherapy,
• shockwave therapy,
• balneotherapy,
• mud therapy,
• detoxification measures,
• diet therapy.

Diet adherence is a key aspect of relapse prevention. In institutions in Koyan, the best specialists with extensive experience create individualized nutrition plans.

Patients are also offered spa treatment courses that help improve immunity, normalize metabolic processes, and tone organs and systems. With the right approach, gout attacks subside and the patient becomes reliably protected from complications.