Understanding the different types of arthritis and how to manage them.
Let’s chat about arthritis, covering the basics of what arthritis is, how to manage it, and how we can help. Don’t let arthritis hold you back
Firstly, let’s define what we mean by arthritis. Arthritis is a general term that refers to inflammation in one or more of your joints. There are multiple different types of arthritis, each with their own causes, symptoms, and treatments. Some of the most common types of arthritis include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and gout.
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, and it typically occurs as we age. It
happens when the cartilage that cushions your joints starts to break down, causing pain and stiffness. Rheumatoid arthritis, on the other hand, is an autoimmune disorder that can affect people of all ages. It happens when the body’s immune system attacks the lining of the joints, leading to inflammation and pain.
Now that we’ve covered some of the different types of arthritis, let’s talk about how to manage them. The good news is that there are a number of things you can do to help alleviate the symptoms of arthritis and improve your overall quality of life.
One of the most important things you can do is to stay active. While it may seem counterintuitive, exercise can actually help reduce joint pain and stiffness and improve the strength of the muscles surrounding the joint. Low-impact activities like swimming, biking, strength-based training and walking can be especially beneficial. In addition to exercise, maintaining a healthy weight can also help reduce the strain on your joints.
Another key component of managing arthritis is to work closely with your healthcare provider to develop an individualised treatment plan. Depending on the type and severity of your arthritis, your treatment plan may include medications, physical therapy, occupational therapy, or even surgery.
At Valley Health Group, we take a holistic approach to treating arthritis. Our team of osteopaths, exercise physiologists, myotherapists and remedial massage therapists are trained to view the body as a whole, rather than as a collection of individual parts. Ultimately, managing arthritis is about finding the right combination of treatments and lifestyle modifications that work for you. It may take some trial and error, but with the right support and guidance, it is possible to live a full and active life with arthritis.
We want to encourage anyone who is struggling with arthritis to seek out help and support. Whether it’s through our clinic or another healthcare provider, there is no need to suffer in silence. Together, we can work towards a better understanding of arthritis and find effective ways to manage this challenging condition.