Arthritis is a disease of the joints that often causes pain, inflammation, and loss of range of motion. It affects people of all ages, from all walks of life. Although the symptoms are fairly similar, there are many different kinds of arthritis, each with their own underlying causes. Some types of arthritis are more likely to run in families, whereas others may be linked to physically demanding jobs that involve repetitive motion or heavy lifting. Some types of arthritis are much more common in older adults, while others can affect children and adolescents. An injury or an infection can also be contributing factors in the development of arthritis.

One of the most common forms of arthritis is rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In contrast to another very common form of the disease, osteoarthritis, RA is not caused by everyday wear-and-tear, trauma, or a demanding occupation. Instead, RA leads to damage to the joint when the body’s antibodies mistakenly attack the joint capsule membrane, also known as the synovium. This leads to inflammation and the growth of fibrous tissue in the synovium, as well as excess fluid in the joint. These processes lead to the degeneration of cartilage and erosion of the bones in the joint. Although the exact mechanism of RA is not understood, it can be a debilitating disease that causes great damage to the body and severely reduces quality of life.

Treatment options for RA include physical therapy, gentle exercise, the use of special splints and braces, topical pain relief gels and creams, and the application of localized heat and cold. Additionally, there are many over-the-counter and prescription drugs that can help to reduce swelling, relieve pain, and improve range of motion. In severe cases of RA, the use of steroids can help to reduce swelling. Disease Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs (DMARDs), in contrast with drugs that simply alleviate symptoms, may actually slow the progression of joint damage in RA, and are especially useful when started soon after diagnosis.

Edison Home Health Care is happy to advise and assist you or any loved one who seek appropriate care of Arthritis problems. Give us a call at 888-311-1142, or fill out a contact form and we will respond shortly.

Arthritis Home Care New York

Arthritis is accompanied by three main symptoms: joint pain, reduced mobility, and swelling of the affected joint. Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis are the dominate types of arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder in which the body mistakenly attacks healthy cells, leading to joint degeneration. Osteoarthritis, on the other hand, is caused by general wear-and-tear on the joint. Osteoarthritis occurs when cartilage – the tough, springy tissue that cushions the bones in a joint – is worn away or compromised. Osteoarthritis is common among older adults since simple aging often causes increased brittleness. Individuals who have a physically demanding occupation, an acute injury, or put repeated stress on a joint can are at a higher risk of developing osteoarthritis.

Physically demanding jobs that require heavy lifting or repetitive motion such as construction workers, dancers, and athletes create extra strain on the joints. Also, retail, hospitality, and healthcare workers who spend much of the day on their feet are at increased risk. Preventive measures for arthritis involve proper stretching before and during activities to ease joints, in addition to taking frequent breaks to rest. Once arthritis has set in, there is no cure for completely getting rid of it, but there are options to ease symptoms. Treatment ranges from lifestyle changes to medications to surgical procedures depending on the severity of the ailment. Regular exercise can strengthen muscles and potentially stimulate cartilage growth. According to the CDC, women can greatly benefit from weight loss to relieve knee osteoarthritis. Diet is essential to health: vitamins C, E, and D are full of antioxidants that can help protect the body. Over-the-counter medications including Tylenol, aspirin, and ibuprofen can relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Other mild forms of osteoarthritis can benefit from massages, acupuncture, physical therapy, ointments, and orthopedic soles. Severe arthritis can be treated with hyaluronic acid injections or joint replacement. Discuss with your physician the best treatment for your condition.

Edison Home Health Care is happy to advise and assist you or any loved one who seek appropriate care of Arthritis problems. Give us a call at 888-311-1142, or fill out a contact form and we will respond shortly.

Arthritis Home Care New York

Arthritis is the name given to a group of disorders which affect the joints. There are many types of arthritis, each with their own underlying causes and slight variations in symptoms. However, most people with arthritis of any kind will experience some degree of pain, swelling, and compromised range of motion in the affected joint. Arthritis effects people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. However, many forms of arthritis are more prevalent in older adults.

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. Although it may effect young people, it is most common in older individuals. In fact, the vast majority of people over the age of 70 exhibit some symptoms of osteoarthritis (OA). OA results from wear on the joints and a corresponding loss of cartilage, the tissue between bones in a joint that allows for flexibility and motion. Advanced age, injury to a joint, and obesity are the most prevalent underlying causes of the cartilage deterioration characteristic of OA. The most common symptom of OA is pain the affected joint. This pain is often worse after activity; playing sports or spending time on one’s feet at work, for example. Pain may also be associated with long periods of inactivity, such as sitting and watching a movie. Swelling and stiffness in the joint are also common in OA, and are often worse later in the day. Although OA can affect anyone, it is slightly more common than women in men, and sometimes has a genetic component. Its symptoms can range from barely noticeable to debilitating.

Although there is no cure for OA, it is possible to treat the symptoms to increase joint mobility and decrease pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs, prescription medications, injections, and sometimes surgery can all be helpful. Other interventions, such as physical therapy, massage, and exercise, can also lessen the symptoms of OA and lead to improved quality of life for those who suffer from the disease.

Edison Home Health Care is happy to advise and assist you or any loved one who seek appropriate care of Arthritis problems. Give us a call at 888-311-1142, or fill out a contact form and we will respond shortly.

Arthritis Home Care New York