Arthritis is a common condition among older adults. Learn more about how to prevent and treat joint discomfort caused by this disease.
Approximately 53 million U.S. adults suffer from arthritis, a chronic condition weakening the lining of the joints. People with the condition often experience intense joint pain and stiffness so severe they cannot perform simple daily activities, such as walking, holding a pen, or getting up from a chair.
Because arthritis is so widespread, particularly among older adults, May has been declared Arthritis Awareness Month. Since 1973, the month has emphasized the need for more education about this common joint disease. Raising awareness will hopefully get more people into early treatment for healthier, painfree joints for a lifetime.
What Is Arthritis?
Arthritis is an umbrella term referring to damage and degeneration within a joint. It can center in one joint or several, and usually strikes the knees, hips, hands, and spine. Two of the most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Osteoarthritis. A gradual wearing down of the cartilage cushioning the bones in the joint as we age.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA). An autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks the lining of the joints. RA affects joints on both sides of the body, such as both hands. It is frequently seen in people between the ages of 30 and 60.
How Does Arthritis Feel?
Arthritis symptoms may start slowly and then build up in intensity. Symptoms may also differ based on the joint affected and the type of arthritis.
- Joint pain. The pain may be ongoing (chronic) or suddenly flare up after a period of remission.
- Stiffness. Stiffness is most acute in the morning or after a long stretch of inactivity.
- Swelling. The joint may become inflamed and tender to the touch.
- Reduced range of motion. Difficulty moving the joint, or the joint may look misshapen.
- Warmth. With rheumatoid arthritis the joint may feel warm and you may experience a fever.
What Causes Arthritis?
Arthritis stems from a host of factors, ranging from normal aging and injury to a breakdown in the autoimmune system. The type of arthritis determines the cause.
Osteoarthritis Causes
- Cartilage breakdown forces the bones of the joint to rub against each other.
- Joint wear and tear as we age. Over half of people with arthritis are over the age of 70.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Causes
- The autoimmune system mistakenly attacks the synovium tissue lining the joints. The synovium produces lubricating fluid to aid joint movement.
- The exact cause is unknown, but it’s believed to run in families. No definite link has been proven, but researchers have identified several gene variants that may be involved in RA development.
Other Contributing Factors
- An injury to a joint may eventually lead to arthritis
- Certain bacteria or viral infections may be linked to RA
- Gout, a condition in which an excess of uric acid forms painful crystals in a joint, usually the big toe
What Causes Arthritis Flare-Ups?
People with arthritis often report weeks and/or months of relatively minor aches and stiffness. Then, the symptoms seemingly worsen overnight, likely due to several factors.
- Overuse of joints. Did you move the joint more than usual? It can stress the joint and cause a flare-up.
- Weather. Changes in barometric pressure or cold temperatures can prompt an increase in symptoms.
- Stress and poor sleep. Stress and fatigue can trigger a flare-up.
- Inflammation. A trauma to the joint or spurs on the bones of the joint often leads to an uptick in pain and stiffness.
How to Prevent Arthritis
You cannot avoid getting older, and aging is the major risk factor for osteoarthritis. You cannot change your sex (women have a higher prevalence of arthritis) or your genetics. However, you can take steps now to reduce your risk of developing arthritis.
Lifestyle Strategies
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Stay physically active while taking care not to strain your joints
- Avoid joint overuse and repetitive motions
- Stop smoking and limit alcohol
Exercise and Movement
- Strength and resistance training
- Flexibility and mobility work to increase range of motion of the joint
- Low-impact aerobic exercises (walking, swimming)
Nutrition
- Follow an anti-inflammatory diet that includes omega-3 fatty acids like fatty fish (salmon, mackerel), chia seeds, and walnuts.
- Eat foods rich in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits, berries, and bell peppers, to protect cartilage from damage.
- Avoid organ meats to prevent gout.
Can Arthritis be Reversed?
Osteoarthritis and RA, unfortunately, cannot be fully reversed. But the pain and stiffness can be effectively managed so you can live a full, active life. Because symptoms may be minor at first, it’s important to listen to your body and seek treatment as early as possible to slow the progression of the condition.
Arthritis Treatment and Care Options
Non-surgical treatments, such as physical therapy and medications, successfully reduce pain and stiffness. Your doctor will develop an individualized treatment plan for you.
Non-Surgical Treatments
- Physical therapy. Exercises can improve range of motion in the joint and strengthen the muscles surrounding it.
- Medications. Nonsteroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) either over-the-counter (ibuprofen, naproxen sodium) or by prescription can reduce arthritis pain. Creams and gels are also available. Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) can slow the advance of RA, but have side effects such as increased risk of infection.
- Steroids. Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, can treat inflammation and pain. They may be given as a pill or as an injection into the joint.
Lifestyle Modifications
- Activity modification. A physical or occupational therapist can show you how to perform everyday tasks without putting undue stress on your joints.
- Weight management. Shed excess pounds to lift pressure off your joints.
- Assistive devices. Braces and other tools can help you perform everyday tasks such as opening jars and pulling up socks more easily and without discomfort.
Surgical Options (when necessary)
- Joint replacement. A joint replacement may be recommended if other non-surgical methods have failed or if the joint is severely damaged.
- Minimally invasive procedures. The joint surfaces can be smoothed or aligned arthroscopically to improve joint mobility.
When to See a Specialist
Arthritis symptoms can be so slight at first you may not take them seriously, or you may think it’s a natural part of aging. In the beginning stages, you may be able to function normally. But arthritis is a progressive disease. Be aware of the signs your arthritis needs medical evaluation and treatment to slow its advance.
- Persistent joint pain
- Swelling or stiffness lasting weeks
- Reduced joint mobility
- Pain interfering with daily activities
How New York Bone & Joint Can Help
The orthopedic physicians and physical therapists at New York Bone & Joint want you to move better without pain or restrictions. We’re here to help using our holistic and compassionate approach to arthritis treatment.
- Comprehensive orthopedic evaluation and diagnosis using the latest techniques and technology
- Personalized treatment plans based on your specific condition and lifestyle
- Emphasis on non-surgical care first with 90 percent of our patients receiving successful non-surgical therapy
- Advanced surgical options only if needed
- Focus on ongoing support for long-term joint health and mobility
Keep Your Joints Healthy for a Lifetime
Your joints are responsible for your vitality and mobility throughout your life. Arthritis Awareness Month highlights the importance of prevention and early treatment of this common and often disabling joint condition. Learn more about proactive joint treatments at New York Bone & Joint Specialists. Contact us today.
FAQs
What does arthritis feel like?
If your joints constantly ache and cannot move easily, you may have arthritis. Arthritis symptoms can be minor at first and you may ignore them. But early treatment can prevent arthritis from progressing into a more painful, debilitating condition.
What causes arthritis flare-ups?
Arthritis symptoms can often go into remission for weeks and months at a time. But if you work the joint too much or are stressed, you may experience a flare-up. Weather changes can also influence your arthritis symptoms. You may need a rest or a change in your medications.
Can arthritis be reversed?
There is no “cure” for arthritis. But with medications and non-surgical treatments, the pain and stiffness can be managed and the progress of the condition slowed.
Is arthritis genetic?
Genetics are believed to play a role in arthritis. Scientists have found a genetic connection to rheumatoid arthritis. But your lifestyle and age are just as impactful.
How can I prevent arthritis?
By staying active, maintaining a healthy weight, and protecting your joints from damage with a healthy diet and low-impact exercises (walking, swimming). Follow those tips and your joints will be healthy for a lifetime.
