Arthritis describes over 100 disorders that involve inflammation and damage in your joints, the tissues around the joint, and other connective tissues. The appearance and severity of Arlington arthritis symptoms vary greatly depending on the type. They might also emerge gradually or abruptly. Since arthritis is usually a chronic disorder, indicators may occur or continue over time. See your clinician if you notice any of the four critical warning signs;
- Pain: Arthritic pain may be persistent or intermittent. It may affect only one portion of your body or impact several.
- Swelling: Your skin above the damaged joint becomes swollen, red, and warm to the touch in some kinds of arthritis.
- Stiffness: This is the common symptom of arthritis. With some types, this is most likely when you wake up in the morning, after sitting at a desk for a long period, or after driving in a car for a long time. Other forms of stiffness may develop after activity or be chronic.
- Difficulty moving a joint: If moving a joint or getting out of a chair is difficult or painful, this might indicate arthritis or another joint condition.
An over of arthritis
Arthritis is an illness that impacts your joints (areas where your bones meet and move). Arthritis often causes joint degeneration (wear and tear) or inflammation. When you utilize your joints, these changes might cause discomfort. Also, arthritis is most commonly found in your hands, feet, knees, hips, and lower back.
What are the components of a joint?
Soft tissues cushion and support joints, preventing the bones from rubbing against one another. An articular cartilage connective structure is crucial since it enables your joints to move effortlessly and painlessly.
A synovial membrane, a cushioned pocket of fluid that lubricates your joints, is found in certain joints. Tendons and ligaments provide support for several joints, such as your knees. Also, tendons connect muscles to bones, whereas ligaments connect bones to one another.
Things you may do to make living with arthritis easier
Changing your routine can assist you in coping with arthritis. Adjust your activities to reduce joint discomfort. Working with an occupational therapist (OT) may be beneficial. An occupational therapist as a type of healthcare professional specializing in treating bodily ailments such as arthritis. An OT may suggest:
- Adaptive equipment, like grips for opening jars.
- Tips for reducing joint discomfort during arthritic flare-ups.
- Techniques for doing hobbies, sports, or other activities safely.
The outlook for those living with arthritis
Since there’s no cure for arthritis, most individuals need to manage it for the rest of their lives. Your healthcare professional can assist you in finding the correct combination of therapies to minimize symptoms. One of the serious health risks linked with arthritis is inactivity. If you become sedentary from joint discomfort, you may increase your likelihood of getting cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic conditions.
While there is no cure for arthritis, the appropriate treatment can significantly alleviate your symptoms. In addition to the medicines recommended by your doctor, you may adopt a variety of lifestyle adjustments that may aid in managing your arthritis. Call Interventional Pain and Regenerative Medicine Specialists to schedule your meeting today to find out which arthritis treatments are right for you.