Assessment of the efficacy of alkaline water in conjunction with conventional medication for the treatment of chronic gouty arthritis: A randomized controlled study

Abstract

Background: Chronic gouty arthritis, a prevalent metabolic disorder, has prompted interest in the role of diet and lifestyle in its management. This study examines alkaline water as a non-pharmacological adjunct to traditional medicine, hypothesizing its positive effects on uric acid levels and gout symptoms. Methods: In this research, 400 chronic arthritis patients from Guangdong Hydropower Hospital (September 2021-September 2023) were randomly assigned to groups receiving varying concentrations of alkaline water alongside conventional Western medicine, or Western medicine alone. A 1-year follow-up involved assessments using visual analogue scales, joint swelling scores, functional assessment scales, and biochemical markers (serum uric acid, creatinine, urea nitrogen) for comprehensive evaluation. Results: Pain relief: High-concentration alkaline water significantly reduced VAS pain scores posttreatment (P < .05). Joint swelling: Greatest improvement observed in high-concentration group (P < .001). Daily activity capability: Notable enhancements in daily activity scores in experimental groups (P < .05). Range of joint motion: All groups showed significant improvement posttreatment (P < .05). Inflammatory markers: Experimental groups experienced a notable decrease in C-reactive protein, especially in the low concentration group (P < .001). Erythrocyte sedimentation rate decreases were marginal and not statistically significant (P > .05). Interleukin-1β and tumor necrosis factor-α levels significantly decreased, particularly in the low concentration group. Serum uric acid levels: Significant reduction in serum uric acid observed in all alkaline water groups (P < .05), contrasting with the control group. Conclusion: Alkaline water, particularly at high concentrations, effectively alleviated pain, reduced joint swelling, enhanced daily activities, and improved joint motion in chronic gouty arthritis treatment. It significantly reduced key inflammatory markers (C-reactive protein, interleukin-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α) and serum uric acid levels, suggesting its potential as a valuable adjunct in gout management. The limited impact on erythrocyte sedimentation rate warrants further investigation.