Living & Coping with Arthritis

Answer 1

One of the most common and chronic illness in the US and around the world is Arthritis. It is a degenerative joint disease, which includes inflammation of the joints such as the knees, ankles, elbows, back and hips.

Pain in the joints is associated with arthritis and it is sometimes called arthralgia. With over 100 different types of arthritis, the disease may be due to inflammation of the immune system, known as rheumatoid arthritis or from injuries such as torn and worn cartilage, which is called osteoarthritis. Other causes may include factors relating to hereditary and metabolic abnormalities, including gout.

Some symptoms of joint pain and inflammation may include joint stiffness and tenderness, swelling, warmth and redness. Other symptoms related to other forms of arthritis, may include swelling of the gland or lymph node, weight loss, fatigue and fever.

Any gender and age group can be affected by inflammation of the joints and there are over 350 million people across the world who have arthritis. However, women are the main sufferers and people 65 years and under.

Living and coping with arthritis can often be a challenge due to the sometimes excruciating joint pain and inflammation that accompany it. As much as possible, you should keep active and do exercises such as walking and stretching to help your joints. Wear proper footwear such as orthopedic shoes, which may help to better support your ankle, knee, foot and other joints. Managing your weight, maintaining good posture to avoid overextending certain joints such as your knees and back and eating a healthy diet is important.

Keeping the arthritic joints warm as well as getting a mild massage may also help to reduce the pain. Where necessary and based on the instructions of your health care provider, you should take medications such as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory to help reduce the pain and inflammation.

Be aware of your limitations and use assistive gadgets that will help to ease the discomfort. A good way to learn about new treatment techniques for arthritis is to read about trends and to join a support group where you can share your feelings with other people having similar challenges.