Dr. Stefano Sinicropi, M.D.

Gout is far more common in the feet, but uric acid buildup can affect other joints in the body, including in the spine. Below, we take a closer look at spinal gout and talk you through a few simple treatment options.

Why Does Gout Develop?

As we noted above, gout occurs when the body cannot rid itself of high levels of uric acid in the blood, which in turn leads to the formation of urate crystals. But what causes high levels of uric acid in the body (hyperuricemia), and why would the body be unable to regulate this acid like normal?

Uric acid is a waste product that is formed when the body works to break down purines, which are water-soluble organic compounds found in the body and in certain foods and beverages. Eating a diet that is high in red meat, fructose, organ meat and seafood can put you at risk for gout onset, as can regular alcohol consumption. Some non-food factors that can increase your risk of gout include being male, being overweight, having high blood pressure, having cardiac or kidney issues or being diabetic.

When uric acid crystals form in the spine, they can affect a number of sensitive areas. They can cause problems for your spinal facet joints, your lamina, the ligamentum flavum or the epidural space. Spinal gout typically affects these structures in your lumbar spine, but it can develop in other spinal segments. Symptoms will vary based on the exact location and which structures are affected, but the most common symptoms include:

• Back pain
• Muscle weakness
• Numbness
• Reduced bladder or bowel control
• Decreased sensation in your lower back, buttocks and legs
• Cramping

For more information about spinal gout, or to talk to a spinal specialist about a different back issue that you’re dealing with, reach out to Dr. Sinicropi and the team at The Midwest Spine & Brain Institute today at (651) 430-3800.

Comments are closed.