Living with Arthritis
Living with arthritis can be a complex and frustrating experience. Individuals with this condition suffer from painful symptoms that can result in debilitation and a sedentary lifestyle. Daily tasks such as walking and sitting can become difficult, making every day a challenge. Since there is no cure for arthritis, finding relief from the pain can seem impossible.
Regardless of your profession, arthritis can severely affect your ability to properly perform your daily responsibilities. Professionals working physical jobs, such as construction, may experience pain during heavy lifting or continuous bending, whereas desk-ridden professionals may experience pain from prolonged sitting. Regardless of your day-to-day, arthritis symptoms can prevent you from living a fulfilling lifestyle.
Despite the challenges that come with arthritis, it is important that patients stay positive and motivated. It has been found that motivated patients are more likely to find relief due to their persistence while searching for an effective treatment route. Certain therapies and treatments are known to ease discomfort and help patients get back on their feet after suffering from arthritis-related pain.
BEST Health System understands that many patients struggle to find quality arthritis care. Therefore, we are proud to offer arthritis guidance and solutions to patients throughout Ohio and the surrounding areas. As a group of dedicated healthcare providers, patient education is one of our primary values. Therefore, we have provided this guide to patients seeking arthritis guidance.
The Importance of Early Diagnosis
Although getting an arthritis diagnosis can be challenging at any time, early diagnosis can offer a variety of benefits. If found in the beginning stages, there is an opportunity for intervention before the arthritis spreads and becomes debilitating. Through pain management, lifestyle changes, and additional treatment, many patients can find relief or slow the progression of arthritis.
If you begin to experience symptoms that align with those of arthritis, it is important to schedule an appointment with a spine specialist. Through X-rays, MRIs, and other imaging modalities, your doctor can give you an accurate diagnosis. After getting an informed opinion, you can work with the doctor to organize your next steps.
Conservative Treatment for Arthritis
Upon diagnosis, there are various treatment options that your doctor may recommend. Typically, a treatment plan will first involve a range of conservative therapies. Depending on your symptoms, doctors will typically recommend a combination of the following therapies or remedies:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Physical therapy
- Braces or splints
- Massage therapy
- Hot/cold therapy
Patients are often able to find relief through the course of these treatments. Although it can be frustrating, the best way to find relief is through trial and error. If patients experiment with these treatments and do not find relief, they may begin to consider further action.
The Importance of a Healthy Lifestyle
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is essential for patients with arthritis, as it can help alleviate symptoms and improve overall well-being. Between exercise and diet, there are a few different ways that patients can maintain their health and manage painful symptoms.
First and foremost, diet is a significant factor for patients managing arthritis and improving their health. Healthy eating can reduce inflammation, prevent weight gain, and combat oxidative stress. Meeting with a dietician and organizing a detailed meal plan can help patients make smarter decisions when it comes to their food.
In terms of exercise, low-impact workouts are optimal for patients looking to stay active without causing their arthritis pain to worsen. Swimming, biking, and yoga are a few workout options that offer many benefits to patients with arthritis.
Finding Professional Help
Finding professional help is crucial for individuals suffering from this chronic condition. Professional arthritis help can be sought from a variety of healthcare providers, such as rheumatologists or orthopedic surgeons. At BEST Health System, our orthopedic and spine surgeons are dedicated to helping patients find relief. Dr. Girton, Dr. Shall, and Dr. Abbott are three of our specialists who can help patients navigate arthritis treatment.
Contact the BEST team today if you are seeking arthritis care.
