Terri Ramsey Beavers Arthritis is an autoimmune condition that causes pain and stiffness in joints. Untreated conditions could cause severe pain to the point that it becomes difficult to go on with your normal routine. As they continue to wear down and rub against each other, the condition becomes nearly impossible to live with. Luckily, modern medicine has made it possible to deal with pain and other symptoms caused by arthritis. Book an appointment with an Arlington arthritis specialist for diagnosis and treatment. Experts perform a full evaluation and determine the suitable treatment option to slow down the progression and improve joint mobility. Below are the options available.
Exercises
Physical activity is one of the most effective treatment methods of arthritis. However, you have to be careful not to hurt yourself in the process. Exercise works by strengthening joints, improving range of motion, relieving pain, and reducing stiffness. Exercising will also manage your weight and reduce the chances of obesity, which is a risk factor for arthritis. Include exercises such as stretching, aerobics, and strength training.
Manage weight
This is another treatment option that includes lifestyle changes. Obesity is a cause of arthritis. Therefore, managing weight could relieve the pressure exerted on the knees, hips, and lower back. Doctors recommend that you still lose some weight even if you’re not obese.
Medications
The doctor could prescribe medications to relieve arthritis pain. If you want to go for over-the-counter medications, it is good that you talk to the doctor first before using them. Prescription drugs include hydrocodone and oxycodone, while over-the-counter painkillers include aspirin and ibuprofen. If pain oral medications fail to work, the doctor could go for injections directly to the affected joint region. This is only used for severe situations.
Natural remedies
Specific supplements and natural herbs have what it takes to alleviate joint pain. The most popular are ginger, flaxseed, chondroitin sulfate, and glucosamine. These remedies facilitate the production of cartilage in the body, which improves motion. These are most useful for people whose bodies cannot tolerate medications.
Other remedies for arthritis include heating pads, ice packs, massage, and acupuncture. Massage and acupuncture may require the intervention of a physician. Reducing help will also help because it is a factor that aggravates arthritis symptoms.
Physical therapy
This is similar to home exercises, but a therapist will now guide you. Such therapies help the body by improving the range of movement, reducing pain, and keeping fit. The expert may recommend that you use shoe inserts to relieve pressure or get a cane to facilitate movement.
Surgery
Although it is rarely used, doctors could recommend it as a last remedy after trying all the other options. You will be advised on the benefits and the risks before choosing the treatment option.
Arthritis is classified into four categories according to the cause. These are inflammatory, degenerative, infectious, and metabolic arthritis. The doctor recommends a treatment option after an evaluation to determine your type. Book an appointment today with Interventional Pain and Regenerative Medicine Specialists if you are dealing with joint pain and stiffness.
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