Treatment Options for Arthritis

Inflammation of the joints, also known as arthritis, affects over 54.4 million adults in the United States. With over 100 kinds of arthritis, this widespread disease has varying causes and treatment methods. The most common types of arthritis are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.

Rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the immune system attacks the joints as foreign tissue. Therefore, this type of arthritis is considered an autoimmune disease. On the other hand, osteoarthritis is primarily related to aging. As people age, the water content of their cartilage increases and its protein makeup degenerates. Repeated use of the joints throughout the years leads to damage to the cartilage, which causes joint pain and swelling.

Today, we will be discussing your treatment options for arthritis. Arthritis treatment concentrates on alleviating symptoms and enhancing joint function. You may have to try different treatments or treatment combinations to identify what is best for you. Remember to consult with your doctor first, though!

Here are some of the ways you can treat arthritis:

• Medication
  Commonly used arthritis medications include painkillers, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids, and counterirritants. The medications you use will differ based on the kind of arthritis you have.
• Lose Weight
  Your weight can play a role in the amount of pain you feel from arthritis. Extra weight can add more pressure on your joints, particularly your hips, knees, and feet. Losing weight can lower pain, enhance mobility, and prevent more damage to the joints.
• Try Hot and Cold Therapy
  Hot and cold treatments can help you deal with arthritis. Long, warm baths help ease joint stiffness. Applying a gel ice pack to painful joints can offer quick relief. If you do not have a gel ice pack, then a bag of frozen vegetables will work just as well.
• Add Healthy Fatty Acids to Your Diet
  Fats such as omega-3 fatty acids and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) can help your arthritis. Fish oil supplements, which contain a high amount of omega-3s, may reduce joint pain and stiffness. Meanwhile, GLA can be found in the seeds of plants such as black currants, evening primrose, and borage. You can purchase the oils of the seeds and use them as a supplement. But before doing so, make sure to consult with your health professional.

We hope this article helps you understand arthritis better! For more health tips and information, check out the Wellness Strategic Partners blog.