I had my first gout attack in 2001. I had been working in high end Steak Houses for the past 20 years. 70% of my total diet was RED MEAT! My liquid intake consisted of 50% wine and spirits. Hardly ever ate leafy green veggies. Never drank water. I have had 6-8 attacks since my first in 2001. Each one progressively WORSE. Started in RT. big toe. After a couple of attacks in RT. big toe it shifted to LT. side big toe. Now back to RT. side big toe and moving to ankle and knee. Doctors meds were harsh on kidneys. Went to a Chinese herb practioner. No success. Found ICMG site and tried the Baking Soda. At the time, I was in the middle of a INTENSE attack. I took 2 tsp in water at bedtime. By the next morning.. I could walk on the toe with minor discomfort. With-in 3 days time I was 100%. Now, whenever I feel the tingling of an onset attack, I drink 1 tsp in a glass of water and with-in 2 hours no symtoms. Baking soda works for me, the sodium is a concern, but the pain of my gout was at times UNBEARABLE and neverending. I can't imagine gout shifting to my shoulders etc. My father had it in his toes, ankles, knees and elbows. Try the baking soda. I can't believe something so simple can bring such fast and lasting relief. However be mindful of the sodium.