Taking the Pain Out of Arthritis
Arthritis is an extremely common cause of disability in the United States. If left untreated, it can result in serious symptoms that may significantly disrupt your everyday life. The arthritis doctors in Asheville, NC know how difficult it can be to cope with chronic pain. However, it is possible to manage arthritis symptoms with the right pain management treatments along with lifestyle adjustments. Read on to learn how to take the pain out of arthritis and find sustained relief.
The Basics of Arthritis
The most basic definition of Arthritis is an inflammation of one or more joints where two bones meet. This inflammation is usually caused by the breakdown of joint cartilage which causes your bones to rub against each other—resulting in bone spurs and a slew of other painful problems. Here are just a few quick facts on arthritis pain:
15% of adults are affected by osteoarthritis and 50% of those over 65 years old.
There are more than 100 different types of arthritis.
Osteoarthrosis and rheumatoid arthritis are the most common forms.
Old age is the most common risk factor to arthritis.
The most common arthritis symptoms include:
Chronic pain
Fatigue
Joint swelling and stiffness
Limb deformities
Impaired range of motion
Everyday Routines
The arthritis pain doctors at the Comprehensive Pain Consultants of the Carolinas recommend that healthy lifestyle changes be the first step in managing arthritis symptoms. The best way to start is to improve your sleeping habits, exercise regularly (low impact exercises such as biking, brisk walking & swimming) and incorporate healthy, whole foods in your diet. Check out this post to learn how anti-inflammatory diets decrease chronic pain.
Pain Management & Physical Therapy
Thankfully, there are a wide range of treatment options available to combat arthritis pain. Here are just a few of the most common pain management treatment methods used for arthritis:
Topical medications
Cortisone shots
Trigger point injections
Prescription medication
Physical therapy may also be recommended as it can help improve muscle strength, increase your range of motion and reduce your overall pain. A professional physical therapist can also help you create an exercise plan that will fit your needs.
Emotional Support
Last, but certainly not least, having a solid emotional support system in place should not be overlooked for anyone dealing with chronic pain. Patients suffering from arthritis are more prone to stress, anxiety, depression and other mood disorders.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: this method of therapy identifies unhealthy thought patterns that influence behavior and mood. Finding a professional pain psychologist in Asheville can work with you to reframe negative thoughts into a more productive pattern of thinking.
Support Groups: Both in-person and online support groups can be beneficial as they encourage sharing personal experiences and listening to others dealing with similar stressors. These groups give patients a place to give and receive advice which has a major therapeutic effect and can alleviate anxiety and isolation.
Arthritis Doctors in Asheville NC
Don’t wait to seek treatment for your arthritis pain. Contact the arthritis doctors in Asheville NC at the Comprehensive Pain Consultants of the Carolinas today. Let’s explore your options and get your quality of life back!
Get in touch with us by calling 828-483-4438
Disclaimer: You should always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health care provider before beginning any exercise program. The information contained in this article does not constitute medical advice, nor does reading or accessing this information create a patient-provider relationship. Comments that you post will be shared with all visitors to this page. All comments are not governed by HIPAA and you should not post any private health information.