Gout

If it progresses to chronic tophaceous gout, tophi—aggregates of monosodium uric acid crystals—form around the joints. Tophi directly destroy cartilage, ligaments, and tendons, causing joint dysfunction and deformation. Furthermore, if uric acid crystals are deposited in the renal tubules and collecting ducts, urate nephropathy and urinary stones develop, accompanied by an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome. It is confirmed that Topai gradually decreases when blood uric acid levels are maintained below 6.0 mg/dL.

Perspective of a Korean Medicine Clinic

In Korean medicine, nodules (Topai) are viewed as hardened masses of waste formed by the combination of chronic heat-related waste products and stagnant blood. Sticky waste products, produced as a result of long-term damage to digestive and kidney functions, combine with stagnant blood to block joints and the pathways of Qi and blood. At this stage, treatment using flat-tipped needles to release adhesions in the surrounding tissues and restore Qi and blood circulation is meaningful. With herbal medicine, the goal is to reduce further waste production by combining prescriptions that dissolve hardened masses and resolve stagnant blood with the recovery of digestive and kidney functions. If large nodules have formed, it is recommended to combine this with an evaluation by Western medicine.