Hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase (HGPRT) and phosphoribosyl diphosphate (PRPP) play key roles in purine metabolism and cellular metabolism in humans. Gouty arthritis typically presents with rapid severe pain and swelling in the first metatarsophalangeal joint, and demonstrating monosodium urate crystals confirms a diagnosis of gout. Physical therapy for gout focuses on protection, range of motion, strength, and education about weight and exercise during acute flares and intercritical periods. Pseudogout resembles gout but affects older patients and joints like the knee and wrist, involving calcium pyrophosphate crystal deposition.