How to Manage Arthritis

By Dr. Beth G. Hodges

Arthritis is a broad term that encompasses various conditions affecting the joints and surrounding tissues. There are many types of arthritis, each with its own unique symptoms and management strategies. Here are some common types of arthritis and ways to manage their symptoms:

Osteoarthritis
This is the most common form of arthritis, sometimes referred to as “old age arthritis” and comes from wear and tear on joints over decades of life, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. Management strategies may include:

• Medications: Over-the-counter pain medications such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
• Physical therapy: Exercises to strengthen muscles around the affected joint can help improve stability and reduce pain. (Many knee replacement surgeries have been delayed or avoided by modest weight loss and good physical therapy!)
• Weight management: Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce stress on weight-bearing joints, such as the knees, hips, and ankles.
• Assistive devices: Using supportive devices such as braces, splints, or canes can help reduce joint strain. (However, overuse of braces allows weakening of surrounding muscles and can ultimately worsen pain, so use sparingly.)
• Lifestyle changes: Avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms, practicing joint-friendly movements, and applying heat or cold therapy can provide relief.
• Injections: Corticosteroid injections into the joint can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

Rheumatoid Arthritis
This is a disease where the body’s own immune system mistakenly attacks the joints, causing chronic inflammation and leading to pain, swelling, and stiffness. Management strategies may include:

• Medications: Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and biologic agents can help slow the progression of rheumatoid arthritis and reduce inflammation.
• Physical therapy: Exercises to improve joint flexibility, strength, and function can help manage symptoms.
• Rest and joint protection: Taking breaks and avoiding repetitive motions can reduce joint strain.
• Assistive devices: Using assistive devices such as splints or braces can support affected joints and reduce pain.
• Lifestyle changes: Managing stress, getting regular exercise, and practicing relaxation techniques can help reduce symptoms.
• Injections: Corticosteroid injections into the affected joints can provide short-term relief from pain and inflammation.

Gout
This is a type of arthritis that occurs due to the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to sudden and severe pain, swelling, and redness. Management strategies may include:

• Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), colchicine, and corticosteroids can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain during acute gout attacks.
• Medications for long-term management: Uric acid-lowering medications such as allopurinol or febuxostat may be prescribed for long-term management of gout to prevent future attacks.
• Lifestyle changes: Avoiding triggers such as alcohol, certain foods (high in purines), and dehydration can help prevent gout attacks.
• Diet modifications: Following a low-purine diet and staying hydrated can help manage uric acid levels in the body.

Psoriatic Arthritis
This is a type of arthritis that occurs in people with psoriasis, a chronic skin condition. It can cause joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, as well as skin symptoms. Management strategies may include:

• Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), and biologic agents can help reduce inflammation and manage symptoms.
• Topical treatments: Corticosteroid creams or ointments can be used to manage skin symptoms.
• Physical therapy: Exercises to improve joint flexibility and strength can help manage symptoms.
• Lifestyle changes: Managing stress, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding triggers can help reduce symptoms.
• Assistive devices: Using supportive devices such as splints or braces can help manage joint pain and improve function.

In my practice, we jokingly refer to arthritis as “Uncle Arthur.” I see patients struggling with the effects of arthritis every day. It is one of the most common diagnoses we see in the aging population. 

The patients who do best are the ones who take a proactive role in their health, practicing the guidelines suggested above, instead of being passive victims of the house guest that never goes away! If you suffer from arthritis pain, I hope you will make an appointment to see your provider and develop a game plan to manage your arthritis pain today.

Dr. Beth Hodges is a family practice and palliative care/hospice physician in Asheboro, N.C., as well as a part-time medical director for HealthTeam Advantage.