March 28, 2024
Arthritis

Millions of people are affected with Arthritis. It is with age that chances of developing the disease, increase and severity of the disease varies. However individuals in their 20’s and 30’s also can get affected with Arthritis.  Repetitive stress caused on joints due to overuse and injury to joints and reduction of cartilage between the joints can lead to Arthritis.  Arthritis is a disease does not have any cure but there are lots of options to use as treatment.

Cold and hot therapy is used in treating arthritis which makes a world of difference to pain caused by the disease. In the morning, simple long and warm baths or showers can make a huge difference to the pain. Stiffness in the joints gets eased out with hot water treatment. To keep the joints loose, a moist heating blanket or electric blanket is best to use at night.

Over the years, wear and tear can cause swelling in the joints. Tissue covering bone ends swell, begin breaking down and leave no cushioning to support the bones at the joints. Joints become painful and inflamed when they rub against each other. When pain or swelling arises in knees, hips, fingers and other joints, treatment can be given.

Physical activity like stretching, water aerobics, swimming, bicycle riding, running, walking and strength training exercises helps weight reduction, exerts less damage on joints, relieves pain and causes reduced strain on joints. There is no need to know swimming to do water aerobics as it can be done in shoulder height water in the swimming pool. Anti inflammatory diet including olive oil, whole grains, fresh vegetables and fruits, nuts, beans fish or Mediterranean diet is excellent for joint health.

Arthritis pain can be treated with various medications. Before starting them, it is advisable to talk to the doctor. Naproxen, ibuprofen and aspirin are common medications used for arthritis treatment. Hydrocodone and Oxycodone are other prescription medications given to the patient. If the arthritis pain is severe, then a corticosteroid injection is given at the pain site.

Supplements like glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate and herbs like turmeric, ginkgo, capsaicin, ginger and flaxseed are also considered good for arthritis.  Using ice packs, acupuncture, heating pads and massage are the other remedies used for reliving arthritis pain.  If there is no relief, then surgery may be advised by the doctor.