Arthritis

What is Arthritis?

Arthritis refers to inflammation of one or more joints, causing pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. There are over 100 different types of arthritis, with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis being the most common.

Common Types of Arthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA)

• Most common form of arthritis
• Occurs when cartilage breaks down over time
• Usually affects weight-bearing joints
• More common with aging

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

• Autoimmune condition
• Body’s immune system attacks joint lining
• Can affect multiple joints simultaneously
• May cause systemic symptoms

Psoriatic Arthritis

• Affects some people with psoriasis
• Can affect skin and joints
• May cause spine inflammation

Gout

• Caused by uric acid crystal buildup
• Often affects the big toe first
• Can be extremely painful
• Related to diet and genetics

Common Symptoms

Joint-related symptoms:

• Joint pain and tenderness
• Stiffness, especially in the morning
• Swelling around joints
• Reduced range of motion
• Grinding sensation (crepitus)
• Joint deformity (in advanced cases)
• Warmth around affected joints
• Muscle weakness around joints

Systemic symptoms (especially in RA):

• Fatigue
• Low-grade fever
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• General feeling of being unwell

General Management Approaches

Non-Medical Management

Exercise and Movement

• Low-impact exercises (swimming, cycling, walking)
• Range-of-motion exercises
• Strengthening exercises for supporting muscles
• Balance and flexibility training
• Tai chi or gentle yoga

Weight Management

• Maintain healthy weight to reduce joint stress
• Even small weight loss can significantly reduce pain
• Focus on anti-inflammatory foods

Joint Protection

• Use larger, stronger joints when possible
• Avoid prolonged gripping or repetitive motions
• Use assistive devices when needed
• Maintain good posture
• Take frequent breaks during activities

Heat and Cold Therapy

Heat Therapy (for stiffness)

• Warm baths or showers
• Heating pads or warm compresses
• Paraffin wax baths for hands

Cold Therapy (for inflammation)

• Ice packs for acute flares
• Cold compresses for 15-20 minutes
• Never apply ice directly to skin

Medical Management

Medications may include:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers
• Prescription anti-inflammatory drugs
• Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) for RA
• Biologic medications for severe cases
• Topical pain relievers

Other Treatments:

• Physical therapy
• Occupational therapy
• Injections (corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid)
• Surgery (in severe cases)

When to Seek Medical Attention

Schedule an Appointment:

• Joint pain lasting more than a few days
• Swelling, redness, or warmth in joints
• Morning stiffness lasting over an hour
• Decreased range of motion
• Joint pain interfering with daily activities
• Family history of arthritis with new joint symptoms

Seek Immediate Care:

• Sudden, severe joint pain
• Joint that appears deformed
• Signs of infection (fever with joint pain)
• Complete inability to move a joint
• Severe pain following an injury

Lifestyle Modifications

Diet and Nutrition

Anti-inflammatory Foods:

• Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines)
• Leafy green vegetables
• Berries and cherries
• Nuts and seeds
• Olive oil
• Whole grains

Foods to Limit:

• Processed foods
• Sugary drinks and snacks
• Red meat (in excess)
• Foods high in saturated fats
• Excessive alcohol

Sleep and Rest

• Maintain regular sleep schedule
• Use supportive pillows and mattresses
• Create a comfortable sleep environment
• Balance activity with adequate rest

Stress Management

• Practice relaxation techniques
• Consider meditation or deep breathing
• Stay socially connected
• Engage in enjoyable activities
• Consider counseling if needed

Daily Living Adaptations

Home Modifications

• Install grab bars in bathrooms
• Use lever-style door handles
• Raise toilet seats if needed
• Ensure good lighting
• Remove trip hazards

Assistive Devices

• Jar openers and built-up handles
• Button hooks and zipper pulls
• Ergonomic keyboards and mouse
• Walking aids if needed
• Supportive shoes with good cushioning

Exercise Recommendations

Safe Exercises for Arthritis

Water Exercises:

• Reduce joint stress while providing resistance
• Water walking, swimming, water aerobics
• Ideal for people with weight-bearing joint pain

Low-Impact Activities:

• Walking on level surfaces
• Stationary cycling
• Elliptical machines
• Chair exercises

Strength Training:

• Use light weights or resistance bands
• Focus on muscles around affected joints
• Start slowly and progress gradually
• Avoid exercising inflamed joints

Monitoring Your Condition

Keep Track Of:

• Pain levels and patterns
• Stiffness duration and severity
• Activities that worsen or improve symptoms
• Medication effectiveness and side effects
• Sleep quality
• Mood and energy levels

Working with Healthcare Providers

Questions to Ask:

• What type of arthritis do I have?
• What’s the best treatment plan for me?
• How can I manage pain effectively?
• What exercises are safe for me?
• Are there any activities I should avoid?
• How often should I have follow-up appointments?

Long-term Outlook

While arthritis is a chronic condition, many people successfully manage their symptoms and maintain active lives. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help:

• Slow disease progression
• Reduce pain and inflammation
• Preserve joint function
• Maintain quality of life
• Prevent joint damage