Arthritis Awareness Week 2022
Arthritis is a condition that affects over 58 million men and women. This disease is characterized by inflammation and swelling of joints, tissue around the joints, and other connective tissues. Some of the major types of Arthritis include Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Gout, and Fibromyalgia. The healthcare industry is dedicated to spreading awareness and educating the public more thoroughly about arthritis each May.
Arthritis is diagnosed in a number of ways, and diagnosis usually starts with a physical exam by a patient’s primary care physician. Physicians check for redness, warmth, swelling and to see how joints are moving. Arthritis can also be confirmed through lab testing and imaging like ultrasounds, CT Scans, MRI imaging, and X-rays.
Currently, there is no cure for arthritis, however, arthritis sufferers can still live an active and healthy lifestyle. Incorporating vital lifestyle changes and seeking out proper treatment can help you manage your arthritis effectively. Treatments include using medication to manage symptoms and pain, physical or occupational therapy to aid in mobility and strengthening, and in some cases, surgery. Implementing the following lifestyle changes may help you manage and alleviate discomfort and avoid surgery:
- Weight Loss – Excess weight puts more stress on joints. Losing weight can help increase your mobility and prevent further injury.
- Exercise – Regular exercise keeps joints flexible. Water exercises reduce stress on the joints and are some of the best forms of therapeutic movement for arthritis patients.
- Heat and Cold Treatments – Using heating pads or ice packs can help relieve arthritis pain.
- Other Assistive Devices – Incorporating the use of canes, shoe inserts, installing higher toilet seats, and utilizing other assistive devices can help protect joints and improve quality of life.
For many patients suffering from arthritis, knee and hip replacements are commonly recommended to ultimately relieve pain and suffering. Post-surgical physical and occupational therapy is required to help knee and hip replacement patients achieve maximum mobility and strengthening. Home Health Professionals is the premier leader in Total Joint Replacement Recovery. We allow patients to recover and meet their post-surgical goals in the comfort of their own homes. The ultimate objective of our expert clinicians is to get you back to doing what you love without the constraints of arthritis pain.
Although living with arthritis can be difficult and even debilitating at times, it is important to keep your spirits high, continue daily life as much as possible and communicate with your doctor about how to effectively manage your pain.
Home Health Professionals’ clinicians also treat arthritis patients with pain management techniques to help them get through their day and avoid surgery altogether. By choosing low-impact activities, you can lead a normal and safe life even while managing this disease. Check out what exercises are best for you to do!
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