Arthritis is the general, overarching term doctors use to describe ailments that impact a person’s joints and tissues. There are over 100 types of this condition, which often makes it difficult for people to understand and receive the proper arthritis pain treatment. The following guide answers some common questions on this subject to help you move forward pain-free.

What You Should Know About Arthritis

What are some types of arthritis?

The most common type of arthritis in the U.S. is osteoarthritis. This form usually occurs due to normal wear and tear of the joints and most often impacts the knees, hands, and hip joints. Other common types include rheumatoid arthritis, which causes joint inflammation, and gout, which impacts the feet.

What are the symptoms?

Although symptoms depend on the person and particular type of arthritis at hand, there are a few common symptoms most patients will experience. These include pain, discomfort, and stiffness in the joints.

Patients also may experience a decreased range of motion in the affected joint(s), redness or inflammation at the site of pain, and overall fatigue.  

What kind of arthritis pain treatments are available?

Again, your treatment plan will depend on the type of condition you have. For example, if you have gout, your doctor will likely recommend modifying your diet to help reduce flareups. This might include reducing your intake of substances high in purine, like anchovies, mackerel, herring, bacon, veal, liver, and alcohol. Conversely, if you have osteoarthritis, your treatment plan might include taking medication.

Your doctor might also recommend investing in physical therapy treatments. By working with a physical therapist, you can learn and practice exercises designed to strengthen the affected areas, so you can better move around even during a flareup.

They’ll also provide stretches to practice at home to increase your range of motion. Finally, they’ll offer tips on what you can do to minimize stress or strain on the joints, such as proper posture or body movements. 

What causes this condition?

Although the exact cause is still unknown, most experts feel confident arthritis develops as the result of a person’s lifestyle and genes. If it runs in your family, you’re more likely to have it. Further, if you don’t engage in proper exercises or a diet that protects joint health, you may face issues down the line.

If you need help developing an effective arthritis pain treatment plan, turn to the professionals at Step By Step Physical Therapy in Warsaw, NY. For almost 40 years, they provided residents throughout Western New York with a broad range of physical therapy services designed to help patients feel their best. Call (585) 786-8700 to speak with a team member and schedule an appointment today.