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Arthritis is a condition that affects millions of adults, causing pain, stiffness, and limitations in daily activities. As one of the leading causes of disability, it can significantly reduce quality of life if left untreated. Understanding your treatment options is the first step toward regaining control and improving mobility.
At TrueCare, we offer comprehensive care to help you manage arthritis pain effectively. Whether it’s through medication, therapy, or other approaches, our team is here to guide you on the path to relief. Don’t let arthritis hold you back. Schedule an appointment with TrueCare today and explore personalized treatment options designed to improve your quality of life.
Living with arthritis as you age? Explore TrueCare’s Elder Care Wellness Services for personalized support and treatments designed to improve your quality of life.
Prevalence of Arthritis
Arthritis is a widespread condition, impacting millions of adults across the United States. Its prevalence makes it one of the most significant public health challenges today.
Consider these statistics:
- Approximately 58 million adults—21.6% of the U.S. adult population—have been diagnosed with some form of arthritis as of 2022 (CDC).
- Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis, affecting over 32.5 million adults in the U.S. This condition disproportionately impacts older individuals, with about 43% of those diagnosed being aged 65 or older. (Osteoarthritis (OA) Action Alliance)
- Arthritis affects women more than men, with 62% of individuals diagnosed with OA being female. (Osteoarthritis (OA) Action Alliance)
Arthritis not only affects joints but also places a significant burden on mental and physical health, leading to reduced independence for many. Raising awareness about these statistics highlights the urgent need for effective treatments.
What Causes Arthritis?
If you’re wondering how you get arthritis, it is a complex condition with multiple causes, ranging from genetics to lifestyle choices. Understanding these factors is essential for prevention and early diagnosis. While some types of arthritis are hereditary, others arise due to autoimmune disorders or environmental triggers.
Genetic Factors
A family history of arthritis can increase your chances of developing the condition. This is particularly true for osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, where genetic predisposition plays a significant role. If arthritis runs in your family, regular check-ups with an arthritis doctor can help with early detection and management.
Autoimmune Causes
Certain types of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA), occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own joint tissues. This immune response leads to inflammation, pain, and eventual joint damage. Early arthritis treatment is crucial to managing these autoimmune disorders and preventing further complications.
Lifestyle and Environmental Triggers
Your lifestyle and environment can also play a significant role in arthritis development.
- Obesity: Excess body weight increases the stress on weight-bearing joints like the knees, accelerating wear and tear.
- Smoking: Tobacco use has been linked to a higher risk of rheumatoid arthritis and worsens outcomes for those already diagnosed.
- Joint Injuries: Previous injuries or overuse of joints can lead to post-traumatic arthritis, which develops years after the injury.
Making healthy lifestyle choices, such as maintaining a balanced diet, avoiding smoking, and protecting your joints from injury, can significantly reduce your risk of developing arthritis or worsening existing symptoms.
The Different Types of Arthritis
Arthritis encompasses a wide range of conditions that affect the joints, each with unique causes, symptoms, and treatments. While osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are the most common, understanding lesser-known types like psoriatic arthritis and gout can help individuals seek appropriate care.
Osteoarthritis (OA)
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease caused by the gradual wear and tear of cartilage, the protective tissue at the ends of bones. This leads to stiffness, pain, and reduced mobility, particularly in weight-bearing joints like the knees, hips, and spine. Treatment focuses on pain management, physical therapy, and in severe cases, joint replacement surgery.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the joints, causing chronic inflammation and joint damage. Common symptoms include joint pain, swelling, fatigue, and stiffness, particularly in the morning. When considering what is the best pain relief for rheumatoid arthritis, early intervention with disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) or biologic therapies is critical for relief, managing symptoms, and preventing long-term complications.
Psoriatic Arthritis
This type of arthritis affects people with psoriasis, a skin condition characterized by red, scaly patches. Psoriatic arthritis causes joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, often accompanied by skin symptoms. Treatments include anti-inflammatory medications, biologics, and lifestyle changes to manage both joint and skin symptoms.
Gout
Gout is a painful form of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, most commonly the big toe. It leads to sudden episodes of intense pain, swelling, and redness. Gout can be managed with dietary changes, medications to reduce uric acid levels, and lifestyle adjustments to prevent flare-ups.
Juvenile Arthritis
Arthritis isn’t limited to adults; children can also develop juvenile arthritis, which causes pain, swelling, and stiffness in their joints. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to ensure proper growth and development. Treatment often includes nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), physical therapy, and supportive care.
Diagnosing Arthritis: What to Expect
Diagnosing arthritis involves a combination of assessments to pinpoint the type and severity of the condition. During a physical exam, a healthcare provider will evaluate the affected joints for signs of swelling, redness, warmth, and range of motion. Blood tests may be conducted to check for markers of inflammation or specific antibodies that indicate autoimmune-related arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis. Imaging studies like X-rays, MRIs, or ultrasounds are often used to visualize joint damage, bone changes, or soft tissue abnormalities.
If you’re wondering what kind of doctor treats arthritis, a rheumatologist is typically the specialist who diagnoses arthritis. They have expertise in identifying the various types of arthritis and can recommend the most effective treatment plans, which may include medications, therapies, and lifestyle changes. Early arthritis diagnosis is crucial for managing it effectively. Identifying the condition in its initial stages allows for tailored treatment plans that can reduce symptoms, prevent further joint damage, and improve overall quality of life.
If you’re experiencing joint pain or stiffness, early diagnosis is essential. Check out our Primary Care services and schedule an appointment with a provider at TrueCare to assess your symptoms and develop the right care plan.
Early diagnosis is key to managing arthritis effectively. Schedule a consultation with a TrueCare provider today to explore your symptoms and start a personalized treatment plan.
Non-Medication Approaches to Pain Relief
In addition to medications, there are several non-medication approaches how to combat arthritis that can complement treatment and help manage arthritis symptoms. These lifestyle modifications can improve joint health, enhance mobility, and reduce discomfort over time.
Physical Therapy and Exercise
Physical therapy is an essential part of arthritis management. Joint-friendly exercises such as swimming, yoga, or walking help maintain mobility, relieve stiffness, and strengthen the muscles surrounding the joints. Regular physical activity can reduce pain, improve flexibility, and prevent further joint damage. Working with a physical therapist can provide personalized exercises tailored to your specific condition and limitations.
Weight Management
Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for managing arthritis, especially in weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips. Excess weight puts additional stress on the joints, which can exacerbate pain and accelerate joint wear. A balanced diet combined with regular physical activity can help you achieve and maintain a healthy weight, ultimately alleviating stress on your joints and improving your overall health.
If you’re dealing with foot pain due to arthritis, TrueCare’s Podiatry services can provide specialized care to improve mobility and reduce discomfort. Schedule an appointment today to explore personalized treatment options for your arthritis symptoms.
Alternative Therapies for Arthritis Relief
While traditional medications are often an essential part of arthritis management, many individuals find additional relief through alternative therapies. These non-traditional approaches can complement mainstream treatments and offer effective ways to manage pain, reduce inflammation, and improve quality of life.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an ancient therapy that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. For those with arthritis, acupuncture has been shown as a great therapy for symptom management such as relieving joint pain, improving circulation, and enhancing overall mobility. Many arthritis patients find it a valuable addition to their treatment plan, especially when seeking relief from chronic pain without relying solely on medications.
We offer Acupuncture services as a part of our comprehensive approach to arthritis symptom management. Whether you’re looking to reduce inflammation or find pain relief, acupuncture may be a beneficial option for you.
Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic care focuses on spinal adjustments and other manual therapies to improve joint function, relieve discomfort, and enhance overall mobility. For individuals with arthritis, chiropractic adjustments can be particularly effective in addressing joint pain and stiffness, especially in the back, neck, and extremities. By restoring proper alignment and reducing pressure on the joints, chiropractic care can contribute to long-term pain relief for arthritic knees, hips, hands, etc. As well as improved joint function.
Our Chiropractic services provide personalized treatments that can help manage arthritis pain and improve your overall health.
Surgery for Advanced Arthritis
For severe arthritis, surgery may be necessary when other treatments no longer provide relief. Common surgical options include joint repair, replacement, or fusion.
- Joint Repair: Helps restore function by repairing damaged cartilage or bone.
- Joint Replacement: Involves replacing a damaged joint, often in the hip, knee, or shoulder, with an artificial one.
- Joint Fusion: Fuses two bones to eliminate movement and relieve pain, typically used for smaller joints.
Surgery offers significant pain relief and mobility improvement, but recovery requires rehabilitation. Our specialists will guide you through the process to ensure the best outcome.
Managing Arthritis with TrueCare’s Wellness Services
At TrueCare, we understand that arthritis management goes beyond medications alone. A comprehensive approach is essential for effectively managing symptoms, preserving joint health, and improving overall well-being. Combining medical treatment with lifestyle changes and complementary therapies offers the best opportunity for optimal outcomes.
Our wellness services, including physical therapy, acupuncture, chiropractic care, and podiatry, are designed to complement your medical treatment plan and help manage arthritis pain and improve mobility. By taking a proactive approach to your care and regularly consulting with our specialists, you can better manage your arthritis and maintain an active, fulfilling life.
Don’t wait to take control of your arthritis— schedule an appointment with TrueCare’s specialists today. Our team is here to provide personalized care and support, guiding you every step of the way.
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