Arthritis is a long-term, progressive, and disabling disease that causes pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints. There are more than 100 different types of arthritis and related conditions, with different causes and treatment methods. People of any age can be affected. The most common ones being osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). According to the Arthritis Society, 56 percent of people with arthritis are under age 65. The term arthritis literally means “joint inflammation,” but it is generally used to refer to more than 100 different conditions which affect the joints and may also affect the muscles and other tissues. It can affect one joint or multiple joints. If detected early, the pain a patient suffers can be reduced to a great extent.
What are the causes and risk factors?
Age. The risk of arthritis increases with age.
Sex. Women are more likely to develop arthritis.
Obesity. Increased weight adds stress to weight-bearing joints, such as your hips and knees.
Joint injuries caused by an accident.
Repeated stress on the joint. If your job or a sport you play places repetitive stress on a joint, that joint might eventually develop arthritis.
Genetics.
Bone deformities.
Certain metabolic diseases. Such as diabetes.
May is arthritis awareness month, and we have many patients impacted by arthritis pain or have family impacted by it. Arthritis can be a debilitating condition so we must aim to prevent and improve where possible. Arthritis awareness can help us be aware of chronic pain that can be overwhelming. Simple life-changing habits can help successfully manage your arthritis. Staying active, maintaining a healthy weight and some treatments might slow the progression of the disease and help improve pain and joint function and help you enjoy the quality of life.
Ways to Prevent and Manage Arthritis
Eat a well-balanced, healthy diet with heart-healthy foods. Control blood sugar, limit alcohol, fats, and added sugars.
Maintain optimum body weight to reduce pressure on the bones. It decreases stress on the knees, hips, and lower back, as well as lessens inflammation. Being overweight can contribute to increased pain from the impact on weight-bearing joints.
Quit smoking, it damages the cartilage and synovial fluid inside the joints, causing pain.
Exercise for at least 30 minutes a day for healthy and strong joints. Strengthening the muscles decreases the chances of developing arthritis.
If you experience joint pain longer than two weeks, consult with your doctor. Your doctor may order imaging such as x-rays to check the alignment and look for the degeneration of the joints. Medications may be prescribed to help with inflammation. Arthritis is manageable! Incorporating little changes in your lifestyle can provide huge benefits in the prevention and management of joint damage and arthritis. Our doctors can help you manage pain and swelling, provide progressive exercise programs to improve movement and strength, provide education on your condition, and much more!
If you or someone you love struggles with joint pain or inflammation, please call AMA Medical Center at (781) 581-6181 or contact us online. Schedule your consultation with the best doctors in Lynn, MA!
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