As of right now, the majority of people are aware that gout is a painful ailment that typically affects the big toe. You might be shocked to learn, however, that gout can also impact your spine. Although it is uncommon, spinal gout can happen and, if untreated for an extended period of time, can be very painful. This may be the cause of your inexplicable back pain.
We’ll examine spinal gout in greater detail in this blog, including its definition, symptoms to watch out for, diagnosis, and prevention and management strategies.
What Is Spinal Gout?
A form of arthritis called gout is brought on by the body producing too much uric acid. Sharp crystals form in your joints when your kidneys are unable to eliminate excess uric acid. Inflammation, edema, and pain result from this.
Gout typically affects the knees, ankles, or feet. However, those same uric acid crystals can occasionally form in the spine, leading to axial gout or spinal gout. This area is frequently misunderstood or even misdiagnosed because it isn’t frequently affected.
Common Spinal Gout Symptoms
Spinal gout symptoms might not be immediately apparent. They may resemble other back issues such as sciatica, spinal arthritis, or even a slipped disc. However, the following symptoms may indicate spinal gout:
1. Abrupt Back Pain
There may be more than just a pulled muscle if you experience a sudden, sharp, or stabbing pain in your lower or mid-back.
2. Swelling and Stiffness
Stiffness from gout in the spine can make movement difficult. Your back may start to swell where it didn’t before.
3. Persistent Pain
Rest usually helps with normal back pain. However, it’s worth investigating if your pain persists for days or keeps returning.
4. Tingling or numbness
Your legs may become numb, tingly, or even weak if the uric acid crystals put pressure on the spinal nerves.
5. General Unease or Fever
In contrast to normal back pain, spinal gout can occasionally result in a low-grade fever or generalized illness.
How Is Spinal Gout Different From Other Back Problems?
Many people think all back pain is the same, but there are differences. A slipped disc usually causes pain that shoots down the leg. Spinal arthritis causes stiffness that worsens with age. Spinal gout, however, comes in flares, just like gout in the foot.
One big clue is whether you already have a history of gout. If you’ve had flare-ups in your toe or ankle, and now your back hurts similarly, it could be spinal gout.
What Causes Gout In The Spine?
The key reason of the formation of Gout in the body is the increasing level of uric acid in the body. The reasons behind this include:
- A diet high in purines (like red meat, seafood, and alcohol)
- Excessive body weight
- A problem in the kidney
- History of gout in the bloodline
- Other medical conditions, such as high blood pressure or diabetes
In spinal gout, these crystals find their way into the spine—especially in the lower back or neck—and settle around the joints or even near the spinal cord.
Also read: The hidden dangers of ignoring joint pain
How Do Doctors Diagnose Spinal Gout?
Since the symptoms of spinal gout match those of other back conditions, to catch the accurate problem, the right diagnosis is very important.
Here’s how doctors usually find out:
1. Physical Examination
The medical history will be evaluated by the doctor, and also the spine will be checked for tenderness or swelling.
2. Blood Tests
It checks the level of uric acid in the body. High levels are a strong clue, especially if you already have gout.
3. Imaging Tests
An MRI or CT scan can help spot uric acid crystals or any damage they have caused to the bones or nerves in the spine.
4. Biopsy (in rare cases)
Sometimes, to check the presence of crystals under a microscope, a small sample may be taken.
How Is Spinal Gout Treated?
The aim is to lower the production of uric acid in your body and manage the pain. Treatment usually includes:
- Medications
Doctors may prescribe medicines that lower uric acid or reduce inflammation.The exact medicines depend on your health, symptoms, and what suits your body.
- Lifestyle Changes
Eat more fruits and vegetables, manage stress, and sleep on time.
- Pain Management
To manage the severe pain, painkillers or anti-inflammatory drugs can be used.
- Surgery (Rarely Needed)
In some advanced cases, surgery may be required to remove large crystals that get deposited or relieve pressure on the spinal cord.
Can Gout Really Cause Back Pain?
Yes,
While very rare, gout can cause back pain, in a condition when the crystals of uric acid gets gather in the spine. The pain may not be constant, but it can suddenly hit hard and severely, just like in other joints. If your back pain doesn’t get fixed with the usual treatments, then its always suggested to visit the good doctor to catch the root cause.
How To Prevent Spinal Gout
While you can’t always stop gout from occurring, what you can do is to follow these tips that can lower your risk, especially if you’ve had it before.
Tips to Reduce Your Risk:
- Keep your body well-hydrated as it flushes the extra uric acid
- A big no to alcohol and sugary drinks
- Limited intake of red meat and seafood
- High body weight is dangerous
- Not skipping the prescribed medicines even a single day.
Conclusion
The problem of spinal gout is a concerning one. Although it is not common,but it can really mess with your health. If you already have gout and suddenly start getting back pain, don’t wait. Acting earlier helps a lot in saving time and, most importantly, the quality of life.
Understanding your body, tracking your symptoms, and having open conversations with your doctor can make all the difference.