Arthritis is today’s need to know topic. There are actually more than 100 types of arthritis, which is simply defined as inflammation in one or more joints, the area where two bones meet. An estimated 50 million U.S. adults report that they have been diagnosed with some form of arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA), gout, fibromyalgia, or lupus. It’s also estimated that some 294,000 U.S. children, or 1 in every 250, has some type of arthritis or rheumatic condition. With so much great stuff to do here in the Treasure Valley, it would be a shame to let arthritis slow you down. Here’s what you need to know about arthritis.
Before we talk about arthritis, we need to discuss cartilage. That’s the tissue that helps absorb shock and protects your joints so they can move smoothly. Arthritis breaks down cartilage, causing bones to rub together, which in turn causes inflammation, pain and stiffness. Sometimes we experience inflammation in our joints after an injury such as a broken bone, or an infection or autoimmune disease. The inflammation may go away on its own, but sometimes it stays, resulting in chronic arthritis.
For a long time, we thought arthritis was something we just got as we grew older. This is referred to as osteoarthritis. But more and more people are being diagnosed with some form of arthritis at an earlier age. Symptoms of arthritis include swelling, stiffness or pain in the joint, reduced ability to move the joint, and warmth or redness around the joint. A physical exam may show fluid in the joint.
Although arthritis may not be cured, there are several things that can be done to improve one’s quality of life. Physical therapy and exercise are the two main treatments. Physical therapy options include heat, ice, massage, water therapy, and orthotics to help support the affected joint. Exercise options include low impact aerobic activity such as swimming, gentle walking, and cycling, strength training and range of motion exercises to improve flexibility.
Other things that can help alleviate the symptoms of arthritis include getting enough rest, not staying in one position for too long, avoiding movements that place extra stress on the joints, losing weight if you are overweight, eating a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids, and reducing stress through yoga or meditation.
If you have unexplained pain in your joints that lasts more than three days, or any unexplained joint pain or redness in the affected joint, call your health care provider to have it checked out.
Talk it up:
Do you suffer from a form of arthritis?
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