Best Treatments for Gout and CPPD : From Medications to Diet
Gout and Calcium Pyrophosphate Deposition (CPPD), often called pseudogout, are two common types of crystal-induced arthritis that can cause sudden and severe joint pain. At IRIS Clinics, we recognize that these conditions, though different in origin, often share similar symptoms and require precise diagnosis for effective treatment. In 2025, advancements in rheumatology, medications, and lifestyle strategies have made it possible to manage these conditions better than ever before, helping patients regain mobility and reduce flare-ups.
Gout occurs when uric acid crystals accumulate in the joints, often triggered by high uric acid levels in the blood. CPPD, on the other hand, is caused by calcium pyrophosphate crystals depositing in joint cartilage, leading to inflammation and pain. While both conditions can affect multiple joints, the big toe, knees, wrists, and ankles are common sites. These diseases are not caused by injury or simple wear and tear, but by metabolic and biochemical factors, sometimes associated with genetics, kidney function, diet, or age-related changes.
At IRIS Clinics, our approach to gout and CPPD treatment combines the latest diagnostic tools, including joint aspiration, advanced ultrasound, and dual-energy CT scans, with tailored medical and dietary plans. This holistic strategy ensures each patient gets an accurate diagnosis and the most effective, individualized care.
The symptoms of gout and CPPD can vary but often include sudden joint pain, redness, warmth, and swelling. Gout typically presents with intense flare-ups, often at night, while CPPD can cause more prolonged joint discomfort. Early intervention is critical because repeated attacks can damage cartilage and lead to chronic arthritis. At IRIS Clinics, patients benefit from continuous monitoring and state-of-the-art care to prevent long-term joint damage.
Treatment focuses on immediate relief from pain and long-term prevention. This includes medications that reduce inflammation during flares, urate-lowering therapies for gout, and lifestyle changes to minimize recurrence. For CPPD, there is no single cure, but early detection and preventive strategies significantly reduce episodes and joint damage. Our experts emphasize patient education, dietary counseling, and physiotherapy as core components of care.
Treatment Options for Gout and CPPD
Here’s how these conditions are best managed today, combining medicine, diet, and advanced therapies:
1. Medications for Acute Flares
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like naproxen or indomethacin for quick pain relief.
- Colchicine for gout attacks and select CPPD cases to reduce inflammation.
- Corticosteroid injections or oral steroids for patients unable to tolerate NSAIDs.
2. Long-Term Disease Control
- For gout: Urate-lowering therapies such as allopurinol, febuxostat, or newer biologic agents help maintain target uric acid levels.
- For CPPD: While no crystal-dissolving therapy exists yet, low-dose anti-inflammatory medications and careful joint management reduce flare frequency.
- Regular lab monitoring and imaging to track disease progression and treatment effectiveness.
3. Lifestyle and Diet
- Limit purine-rich foods such as red meat, organ meats, and certain seafood; increase intake of vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy.
- Stay hydrated to support kidney function and prevent uric acid buildup.
- Maintain healthy weight and exercise to reduce stress on joints, but avoid high-impact activities during flare-ups.
4. Innovative Therapies and Supportive Care
- Ultrasound-guided aspiration and injection for rapid pain relief and joint protection.
- New anti-inflammatory biologics for patients with refractory gout.
- Personalized physiotherapy plans and supportive footwear for patients with foot and ankle involvement.
- Patient education programs at IRIS Clinics to promote self-care and adherence to treatment plans.
At IRIS Clinics, our specialists use a multi-disciplinary approach to ensure that every patient receives care that targets their unique needs. Early diagnosis, personalized medication plans, and sustainable lifestyle adjustments form the foundation of long-term joint health. Whether it’s managing a first gout flare or controlling chronic CPPD symptoms, our 2025 protocols combine science and patient-centered care for the best outcomes.