How Is Arthritis Treated
Theres no cure for arthritis, but there are treatments that can help you manage the condition. Your treatment plan will depend on the severity of the arthritis, its symptoms and your overall health.
Conservative treatments include:
- Medication: Anti-inflammatory and pain medications may help relieve your arthritis symptoms. Some medications, called biologics, target your immune systems inflammatory response. A healthcare provider may recommend biologics for your rheumatoid or psoriatic arthritis.
- Physical therapy: Rehabilitation can help improve strength, range of motion and overall mobility. Therapists can teach you how to adjust your daily activities to lessen arthritic pain.
- Therapeutic injections: Cortisone shots may help temporarily relieve pain and inflammation in your joints. Arthritis in certain joints, such as your knee, may improve with a treatment called viscosupplementation. It injects lubricant to help joints move smoothly.
The Different Types Of Arthritis And Their Symptoms
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that most often affects the knees. It can, however, also affect the hips, lower back, and hands. OA is the most common form of arthritis, and is more likely to occur as we age. The condition is caused by the breakdown of the cartilage that cushions and lubricates the joints. While OA can cause pain and stiffness in the joints, it does not usually cause leg pain. Leg pain is more likely to be caused by another condition, such as a muscle strain or pinched nerve. If you are experiencing leg pain, it is important to see your doctor to determine the cause.
When the joints cartilage wears away, raw bones become exposed, causing knee osteoarthritis. The knee is the most common type of arthritis that affects the whole body, accounting for over 100 different types. Because of the pain it causes, a person may be unable to walk, go to work, or enjoy life. Exercise can alleviate mild arthritis pain, and injections can help moderate arthritis as well. The symptoms of osteoarthritis of the knee may result in the inability to walk up stairs, enter or exit a vehicle, or enjoy ones daily activities. In addition to affecting athletic performance and enjoyment, it can have a negative impact on sports involving running. Some patients believe that weight gain is the result of inactivity that occurs as a result of knee pain.
The Three Most Common Types Of Arthritis
Arthritis is the catch-all term for any disease that causes painful inflammation and stiffness of the joints. There are over 100 different types of arthritis, each with their own causes, symptoms, and treatments. That said, most of the 40 million people in the United States who have arthritis end up with one of the three most common types. Below are the most common forms of arthritis, along with how they are treated. If you have one of these diseases, the most important thing to remember is that youre not alone.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis the most common form of arthritis. It occurs when joints are overused and usually affects older people, but it can also affect people with joint injuries or weight problems. The joints that are the most susceptible to osteoporosis are the ones that bear weight, such as the knees, hips, feet, and spine. It is a loss of cartilage, which causes inflammation and makes movements painful. Treatment and pain management is completely possible and something we do daily at Carolina Arthritis Associations! Our prescription can include decreasing the work the affected joint must do, physical therapy and exercise movements, prescribed pain relief medication, dietary modifications, and heating and ice.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Psoriatic Arthritis
Categories
Read Also: How To Reverse Arthritis Naturally
What Can I Do To Make Living With Arthritis Easier
Changing your routine can make living with arthritis easier. Adjust your activities to lessen joint pain. It may help to work with an occupational therapist . An OT is a healthcare provider who specializes in managing physical challenges like arthritis.
An OT may recommend:
- Adaptive equipment, such as grips for opening jars.
- Techniques for doing hobbies, sports or other activities safely.
- Tips for reducing joint pain during arthritic flare-ups.
Other Conditions And Joint Pain
Other forms of arthritis, and other conditions, can also cause joint pain. Examples include:
- fibromyalgia syndrome, a condition in which your brain processes pain in your muscles and joints in a way that amplifies your perception of the pain
- scleroderma, an autoimmune condition in which inflammation and hardening in your skin connective tissues can lead to organ damage and joint pain
Also Check: Is Orange Juice Good For Arthritis
Do Certain Types Of Weather Make Arthritis Worse
Some people find that arthritis feels worse during certain types of weather. Humidity and cold are two common triggers of joint pain.
There are a variety of reasons why this might happen. People tend to be less active in rainy seasons and the wintertime. The cold and damp can also stiffen joints and aggravate arthritis. Other theories suggest that barometric pressure, or the pressure of the air around us, may have some effect on arthritis.
If you find that certain types of weather make your arthritis worse, talk to your healthcare provider about ways to manage your symptoms. Dressing warmly, exercising inside or using heat therapy may help relieve your pain.
A note from Cleveland Clinic
Arthritis is a disease that affects the joints. There are many types of arthritis, all of which can cause pain and reduce mobility. Some forms of arthritis result from natural wear and tear. Other types come from autoimmune diseases or inflammatory conditions. There are a variety of treatments for arthritis, ranging from physical or occupational therapy to joint surgery. Your healthcare provider will assess your symptoms and recommend the right treatment plan for your needs. Most people can successfully manage arthritis and still do the activities they care about.
Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 04/15/2021.
References
Q What Supplement Works Best For Joint Pain
A. Some consequences of aging those grey hairs and crows feet, for instance merely change the way we look. As we age on the outside, our joints and ligaments also get older, which often leads to joint pain. And unlike changes to our skin and hair..
Don’t Miss: Is Exercise Good For Psoriatic Arthritis
Can Osteoarthritis Cause Severe Pain
A person with osteoarthritis develops degeneration of the joints that worsens over time and causes pain. It is possible for joint pain and stiffness to make daily activities more difficult.
The most common type of arthritis is osteoarthritis, which causes joint pain and inflammation. It is an indication of the breakdown of cartilage in a joint. Cartilage is a firm, rubbery material used to cover and cushion the ends of bones. When cartilage deteriorates, the tendons and ligaments stretch, causing pain.
Related Conditions And Complications
Arthritis can in some cases be the result of a different underlying condition or injury for example, lupus. People who already experience other disabilities may have a higher risk of developing arthritis than those without any disabilities.
Additionally, arthritis itself may produce further clinical conditions and complications, known as secondary conditions.
For instance, the CDC suggests that people with lupus or RA are also at a higher risk of developing fibromyalgia, a chronic pain condition.
Complications of arthritis can include:
- cardiovascular disease
Don’t Miss: Does Heat Help Arthritis In Back
Surgical Treatment Options For Wrist Arthritis
For those patients who do not respond well to conservative non-surgical treatment methods, it may be necessary to proceed with surgery to improve their symptoms. Surgical options vary depending upon which area is affected and whether its isolated to a specific area. Advanced technology is used to help you return to your everyday activities sooner. The goal at The Hand and Wrist Institute is to improve your quality of life and pain while improving or preserving hand function.
Can Knee Arthritis Cause Calf Pain
There is no definitive answer to this question as each individual experiences pain differently. However, it is possible that knee arthritis could cause calf pain as the two joints are connected. If you are experiencing calf pain and have arthritis in your knees, it is best to consult with a doctor to determine the cause.
Calf pain can be caused by a variety of factors, including muscle injuries and chronic health conditions. Certain types of pain, such as those that are not calf-related, could be caused by nerve damage, artery disease, or severe trauma. This article explains causes and symptoms of calf pain, as well as when to seek medical attention for it. A gastrocnemius strain is an acute injury that develops as a result of an abrupt overtightening of the calf muscle. When blood vessels under the skin of a calf are torn or ruptured, there is a contusion of the calf muscle. A common overuse injury in endurance runners is a soleus muscle strain. The rupture of a Plataris muscle occurs when a large amount of body weight is suddenly applied to the ankle while the knee is extended.
Also Check: Is Gin Good For Arthritis
What Are The Best Foods For Arthritis
There is no strict diet to cure arthritis. There are certain food products, which have a number of health benefits and can also reduce inflammation in the body. These foods include fish, carrot, oranges, berries, grapes, green leafy vegetables, olives, and other food products rich in omega-3 fatty acids, calcium and vitamin C.
List Of Different Types Of Arthritis
Published: 2015-06-23 – Updated: 2022-01-14Author: Disabled World | Contact: Disabled World Peer-Reviewed Publication: N/AJump to:Main Digest | Publications
Synopsis:General information and list of over 150 various types of arthritis, a form of joint disorder that involves inflammation of one or more joints in humans. The most 5 common types of arthritis are Osteoarthritis, Fibromyalgia, Gout, Rheumatoid Arthritis, and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Children and teens get a type of arthritis called juvenile idiopathic arthritis . “Juvenile” means young and “idiopathic” means cause unknown.
You May Like: What Is Used To Treat Rheumatoid Arthritis
Whats The Outlook For Someone Living With Arthritis
Since theres no cure for arthritis, most people need to manage arthritis for the rest of their lives. Your healthcare provider can help you find the right combination of treatments to reduce symptoms. One of the biggest health risks associated with arthritis is inactivity. If you become sedentary from joint pain, you may face a greater risk for cancer, heart disease, diabetes and other serious conditions.
Will I Need Surgery For Arthritis
Healthcare providers usually only recommend surgery for certain severe cases of arthritis. These are cases that havent improved with conservative treatments. Surgical options include:
- Fusion: Two or more bones are permanently fused together. Fusion immobilizes a joint and reduces pain caused by movement.
- Joint replacement: A damaged, arthritic joint gets replaced with an artificial joint. Joint replacement preserves joint function and movement. Examples include ankle replacement, hip replacement, knee replacement and shoulder replacement.
Don’t Miss: Does Psoriatic Arthritis Qualify For Disability
How Different Types Of Arthritis Affect Your Joints Differently
Do you believe your joint pain is caused by arthritis? With over 100 different types of arthritis identified, knowing the type you have could be the key to relieving your pain and inflammation. A qualified specialist can correctly diagnose your arthritis type and properly manage your symptoms with a targeted regimen.
At Western Orthopaedics in Arvada and Denver, Colorado, our team of orthopaedic specialists has many years of combined experience diagnosing and treating the various forms of arthritis. They can properly classify your arthritis type and treat your joint pain and any other symptoms.
Are You At Risk For Arthritis
Common risk factors for arthritis include age, sex, weight, and family history. As we age, the risk for many types of arthritis increase. Also, women are more likely to develop certain types of arthritis, such as RA, while men are more likely to develop other types. Additionally, being obese puts you at a greater risk for arthritis. This is because your joints have more stress placed on them.
If you are looking for a Las Vegas pain management doctor to develop a customized arthritis treatment plan, contact Apex Medical Center. We have three locations in the Valley and are dedicated to pain management care.
Image courtesy of stockdevil at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Don’t Miss: What Medications Treat Rheumatoid Arthritis
What Are The Parts Of A Joint
Joints get cushioned and supported by soft tissues that prevent your bones from rubbing against each other. A connective tissue called articular cartilage plays a key role. It helps your joints move smoothly without friction or pain.
Some joints have a synovial membrane, a padded pocket of fluid that lubricates the joints. Many joints, such as your knees, get supported by tendons and ligaments. Tendons connect muscles to your bones, while ligaments connect bones to other bones.
Are You At Risk
Arthritis is a widespread disease, and risk factors depend on the type. Age increases the risk of arthritis types like osteoarthritis, while women are more predisposed to rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. Family history also plays a role in the amount of risk you may have. If you think you may have arthritis, make an appointment with your primary care physician.
You May Like: Can Trigger Finger Be Caused By Arthritis
Can Arthritis Of The Knee Cause Calf Pain
Does a bad knee mean calf pain? Many knee problems can cause the muscles and tendons that run along the calf to become strained. Bakers cysts, which can be caused by arthritis in the knee joint, are one of the most common causes.
Deep vein thrombosis, tendonitis, muscle spasms, and a Bakers cyst are other causes of discomfort below or behind the knee and calf. A pulmonary embolism is a blood clot that forms in the lower extremities and travels to the lungs. There are many disorders that can cause pain at the back of the calf or knee, including knee sprains, knee infections, and muscular spasms. There are a number of reasons why someone may experience leg pain behind the knee or calf. Calf muscles, for example, can be affected by an inflammatory condition called tendonitis. There is a chance that vascular disorders will cause harm or even death. Here are a few facts about vascular health and some suggestions for self-care.
Effects On Your Daily Life
- See a doctor or other relevant healthcare professional if youre unable to do everyday tasks due to joint or muscle pain.
- If youve lifted something heavy and hurt your back, for example, take some painkillers, apply some heat and try to stay active. If the pain doesnt ease after a couple of weeks or so, see a doctor.
Its important to see a doctor if you get any new symptoms or if you have any trouble with drugs youre taking.
If you have an appointment with a doctor, to help make sure you get the most out of it, you could take a list of questions with you and tick them off as they are discussed.
You could also keep a symptoms diary with details of how youre feeling in between appointments. Some people find that taking a friend or relative with them to an appointment can provide support and ensure that all important points are discussed.
Read Also: Does Sugar Intake Affect Arthritis
Chronic Recurrent Multifocal Osteomyelitis
Chronic recurrent multifocal osteomyelitis is a disease affecting the bones. Inflammation is normally one of the bodys protective responses to infection or injury, but in diseases such as CRMO, uncontrolled inflammation can cause damage. In CRMO, inflammation targets the bone and can occur throughout the body.
Q How Much Glucosamine Do I Need
A. Arthritis is a very common problem among the Americans. According to the statistics, around 22.7% of the American adults are diagnosed with some forms of arthritis, such as gout, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and others..
Don’t Miss: Does Dry Needling Help Arthritis
What Are The Different Types Of Arthritis
If youre interested in knowing more about arthritis and the different kinds of treatment available, this article is for you. Read on to learn about osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and psoriatic arthritis. Once you understand these conditions, you can decide on a treatment plan that fits your lifestyle and your budget.
What Is A Joint And How Does It Work
A joint is where two or more bones meet, such as in the fingers, knees, and shoulders. Joints hold bones in place and allow them to move freely within limits.
Most of the joints in our body are surrounded by a strong capsule. The capsule is filled with a thick fluid that helps to lubricate the joint. These capsules hold our bones in place. They do this with the help of ligaments. These are a bit like very strong elastic bands.
The ends of the bones within a joint are lined with cartilage. This is a smooth but tough layer of tissue that allows bones to glide over one another as you move.
If we want to move a bone, our brain gives a signal to the muscle, which then pulls a tendon, and this is attached to the bone. Muscles therefore have an important role in supporting a joint.
Read Also: How Do They Diagnose Psoriatic Arthritis
What Are The Different Types Of Arthritis In The Hand
Arthritis can be a debilitating disease, especially arthritis in your hands. Most people use their hands and fingers constantly throughout the day. Suffering from pain in your joints can make accomplishing any task that much harder. How does arthritis develop in your hands, what are the different types of arthritis, and are there treatment plans available to help? These are all great questions to ask yourself if you are experiencing pain, stiffness, or swelling in your joints.
Contents