Arthritis

There are many different kinds of arthritis that can exist. Two of the most common kinds are Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid arthritis

Osteoarthritis: What happens?

• Cartilage covering end of bones breaks down
• Result of old age or too much wear and tear
• Gives you pain and swelling
• Spurs form on bony surface

Osteoarthritis: What are the symptoms?

• Knees, hips, spine, and fingers and big toe are mostly affected
• Pain in joints, when you first get up or when you have used them a lot
• Creaking and pain when moving a joint
• Can’t move the joint as much as before
• X-ray can confirm you have it

Osteoarthritis: Prevention

• Avoid becoming overweight or lose weight if you weigh too much

Osteoarthritis: Treatment

• Physical therapy
• Exercise: to keep joints flexible and improve muscle strength
• Weight control
• Medication
• Heat or cold therapy
• Sometimes surgery

Osteoarthritis: Treatment

• Rest: short periods throughout day
• Decrease weight bearing: high toilet seats, high, firm chairs, canes

Osteoarthritis: Medication

• Tylenol for mild pain
• NSAID such as Ibuprofen (Advil)
• Sometimes steroid injection
• Glucosamine (need to take for several months)

Osteoarthritis: Exercise

• Range of motion: move joint up & down or in and out depending on
• joint. Keeps joints flexible and reduces stiffness
• Strengthening: help maintain or increase strength
• Endurance: walking or water exercise