The pain and limitations of arthritis are well known to anyone who has ever struggled to button a t-shirt or get out of a chair. You may think that you have years to go before you experience arthritis symptoms, but you might be surprised. Although the condition usually begins after 40, people as young as 20 can also develop it.
There are over 100 types of arthritis. This is a term that describes conditions that affect joints, the tissues surrounding the joints, and other connective tissue. Around 25% of adult Americans have some form of arthritis.
The most common form of osteoarthritis is. This degenerative condition results from the breakdown of cartilage, which reduces friction. Inflammatory joint conditions, such as rheumatoid (RA) and psoriatic, are autoimmune diseases in which the immune system attacks joints, causing pain, swelling, stiffness, and deformity. They usually begin during middle age. Post-traumatic arthritis can develop years after an accident, even if successfully treated.
You should never ignore arthritis, no matter what type it is.
The orthopedic surgeon at Yale Medicine, David Gibson MD, says that people with arthritis symptoms should be evaluated as soon as possible to determine if it is present and how far along it has advanced. This will allow them to plan their future. Many medical and surgical treatments can help ease pain and improve mobility.
According to the type of arthritis, patients may be referred to a rheumatologist for treatment or both. "Rheumatologists are making advances in treating RA using disease-modifying anti-rheumatics that suppress inflammation and biologics that target specific molecules that contribute to the development of RA," Insoo KANG, MD. This rheumatologist treats different forms of arthritis. We treat RA using medications. We will refer you to orthopedic colleagues if your joints require surgical treatment.
Our orthopaedists at Yale Medicine and rheumatologists discussed how to treat the most typical areas of arthritis.
Hip arthritis
What happens: The hip joint is a ball and socket protected by smooth cartilage when it moves. Overuse, aging, obesity, or other factors can cause the cartilage to break down. This causes the bone to rub against the bone, causing pain. OA is expected in this area. While RA is more common in smaller joints, the hip can also be affected.
Dr. Gibson, a specialist in hip and knee problems, says that the hip is what drives the boat. If the hip doesn't work, your feet and ankles will be stressed, and you may find it harder to move the knee. You may hear a "knocking" noise when moving, notice a decreased range of movement, or feel pain in your groin, which can spread down your leg and into your back. You may eventually begin to walk with a different gait."
Self-care: Start a fitness program or change it if you already have one to avoid high-impact sports like running and tennis. Maintain a healthy diet. Lose weight if necessary.
Dr. Gibson recommends "a gentle cyclic load program" like walking or low-impact aerobics. This type of activity has been proven to protect joints. Speak to your doctor if you are considering an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID). However, keep in mind that these medications are only intended for short-term use.
How to get help from a specialist: Dr. Gibson advises that you should consult a specialist if your hip arthritis is limiting your daily activities or function.
Specialists will begin with noninvasive treatment, such as oral medication and physical therapy. If simple treatments fail, more invasive procedures, such as corticosteroid injections in the hip, can be used to minimize symptoms and maintain function. Dr. Gibson warns that injections can have a "double-edged" effect, as they reduce inflammation and relieve acute pain but also cause toxicity in the area where they are injected. You want to avoid too many injections, maybe two or three in a year.
If surgery is on your mind: Hip Replacement is one of the most successful orthopedic operations, says Dr. Gibson. The surgery is minimally invasive and, in most cases, can be performed as an outpatient procedure. He says it's a "dramatic, transformative" operation. Someone who has been sedentary will be able to do everything again.
The implants used in replacement hips are made of metal, ceramic, and plastic. They last for decades. The direct posterior approach is a procedure that avoids the need to cut through muscles to replace a joint. Surgeons claim this leads to fewer complications and easier rehabilitation.
Dr. Gibson says a patient should choose a surgeon with experience in the particular surgery and who is confident performing it.
Hand and base of the thumb arthritis
How OA and RA develop: The hands' small joints are a common place for both conditions to occur. RA usually develops on both the left and right sides of the body. OA, however, is not symmetrical. OA usually begins in the farthest joint of an index finger. It is more common at the base, or proximal, of the thumb. This is because women have looser joints that are necessary to give birth. It can also be accelerated by heavy manual work--so it affects many people who perform heavy-handed tasks such as construction or woodworking.
Self-care: Moving and exercising the affected joint can help. However, the key is to put slight pressure on the area. You can adapt by buying clothes without buttons, zippers, or snaps. Speak to your doctor if you are experiencing pain and want NSAIDs.
What can a specialist do to help? They may prescribe a brace. There are stiff ones for sleeping and softer ones during the day that don't limit mobility.
Dr. Luo says that while the hand is adaptable, it can become stiff. Wearing a splint too long may cause more harm than benefit. Injections of corticosteroids can provide temporary relief. "I'll do injections as long as it helps to delay a surgery that could remove the joint."
Dr. Luo says there are three possible approaches. The first procedure, done at the thumb's base only and removing the entire joint, is called "resection arthroplasty." The recovery time is up to two years, but it is highly successful. The second procedure replaces small joints of the fingers, and it may be necessary to repeat the process in 8 to 11 years. Joint fusion is the third procedure, which also involves the fingers. While the joint won't move again, it provides stability and relieves pain.
Knee arthritis
What happens: The knee is the most significant and most robust joint of the body. The knee is made up of three bones covered in cartilage. This cartilage protects the joint as it bends or straightens. It also contains the meniscus, two pieces of cartilage that cushion the thigh and shin bones.
It is common for OA and RA to appear in the knee. Even after surgery, sports injuries, car accidents, or falls can damage cartilage and bones. These injuries can alter how a person moves their knee, leading to post-traumatic osteoarthritis.
Self-care: Lose some weight if necessary; switch to low-impact activities like walking or swimming from high-impact ones like running; avoid movements like lunges and Squats that can worsen the condition. Talk to your doctor about NSAIDs and apply ice or warmth for pain.
How specialists can help: Specialists can provide assistance devices such as canes or recommend physical therapy and specific exercises. They can prescribe oral and topical medication, as well as injections. Dr. Gibson says that hyaluronic acids, which are found in joints naturally, can be injected to lubricate and cushion patients with little or no swelling temporarily.
Consider surgery if you have RA. There are many knee surgeries. When a replacement knee is needed, the procedure can be done in one day using implants that are more durable than previously used.
"We've gotten better at anesthesia and pain control after surgery," says Dr. Gibson. Anesthesiologists can use Nerve Blocks to relieve pain. This type of relief is effective in the first few days after surgery and can reduce or eliminate the requirement for opioid medicines.
To prevent scar tissue formation, surgeons encourage patients to move as soon as possible after knee surgery. "You need to get moving early," Dr. Gibson says.
Foot and ankle arthritis
What happens: The contact between the foot and any surface, whether walking or running, puts high stress on the arthritic joints--every step hurts. The pain is excruciating if a damaged joint. This is according to Irvin Ah, MD. He is the chief of Yale Medicine Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Surgery. The range of motion can be limited, and bone spurs may develop. Pain can be felt in the big toe and ankle.
Self-care: Control your weight, as obesity or being overweight puts pressure on the ankle and foot. If you feel that your pain is being exacerbated by overuse, try using ice packs and modifying your activities. Exercises that strengthen the ankles (using a resistive band) or stretch out your Achilles tendon can help to reduce pain. Speak to your doctor about NSAIDs.
A specialist can help: "We have to always think about evenly distributing mechanical loads," says Dr. Oh. He compares the ankle and foot to a triangular structure and says it needs to be balanced to perform even essential functions like walking. He adds that some people with foot osteoarthritis will compensate to avoid pain, which can cause the balance to be thrown off. Orthotics, ankle braces, and supportive shoes may be helpful.
If surgery is on your mind: Specially trained surgeons can correct biomechanical problems by surgically realigning the ankle, foot, and lower leg to "offload" the damaged area caused by arthritis. Dr. Oh confirms this. I can clean the joint and remove bone spurs using a minimally-invasive technique or realign your ankle in a manner that redistributes load evenly so that stPain relief at home: 13 natural remedies
These home remedies, from herbs to massages, are worth trying before reaching for OTC medications.
You have low back pain after spending a productive afternoon pulling weeds in your garden. Maybe you're suffering from a persistent knot in your shoulders. You probably have a pain reliever that you can buy over the counter (OTC). Why not try natural remedies before you reach for the old standby? Here are 13 home remedies that have been approved by experts and are supported by science.
Pain relief at home: 13 natural remedies
Acute or chronic PainPain can occur. Acute Pain is usually sudden, such as a muscle strain or scraped knee. It lasts until the cause of the PainPain has healed. Chronic Pain is Pain that lasts for a more extended period, usually more than three months. An underlying condition like an old injury or an autoimmune disease like fibromyalgia can cause it.
Medication can help treat Pain. Analgesics or pain-relieving drugs are classified into non-steroidal analgesics ( NSAIDs) or Opioids. NSAIDs reduce inflammation in the area of the body where the PainPain occurs, while opioid pain relievers alter the brain's perception. The body also has a way of relieving pain- hormones known as endorphins. The pituitary and hypothalamus release endorphins when they sense PainPain. They also work on the same receptors that opioids target in the brain.
Try these natural remedies to relieve your PainPain and avoid medication:
Capsaicin
Turmeric
Cloves
Anti-inflammatory Diet
Hot or Cold Compresses
Massage Therapy
Acupuncture
Exercise
Mindfulness Exercises
Aromatherapy
Boswellia
Magnesium & zinc
Capsaicin
J. says that capsaicin, the main ingredient in hot chili peppers and other spicy foods, is nature's most effective painkiller. Wes Ulm is a bioinformatics and physician-researcher at Harvard Medical School Hospital System. Dr. Ulm explains that the product has been shown to have analgesic properties, which are long-lasting and widespread, especially for neuropathies (Pain from damaged or irritated nerves) and sports injuries. Capsaicin is available in over-the-counter products such as ointment or lotion.
Turmeric
Turmeric, often used in curries or other food preparations to relieve PainPain, has antioxidant properties. Turmeric's principal active ingredient is curcumin. This gives it its golden color. Turmeric can help reduce joint PainPain and arthritis. Turmeric's anti-inflammatory properties may also help treat other Pain or inflammatory conditions. You can take it orally as a tablet, capsule, or extract. Follow the instructions on the product.
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Cloves
Cloves are rich in a natural anesthetic known as eugenol. This works well for treating muscle, nerve, and soft tissue pain, especially toothaches. Dr. Ulm notes that "empirical data have provided ample documentation of the analgesic effects of cloves when used correctly." Clove oil can be used to treat toothache. You can also chew whole cloves. Apply it topically on the affected area for muscle and soft tissue discomfort.
Anti-inflammatory diet
Although it may take several weeks for the effects to be felt, an anti-inflammatory diet helps reduce PainPain, inflammation, and stiffness caused by arthritis or other chronic conditions. Replace refined carbohydrates and processed foods with healthier alternatives like fresh fruits and vegetables. Consult a healthcare professional to determine your best diet and discuss possible side effects.
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Cold or hot compresses
Ice packs are best used in the first 48 hours after an injury. They reduce PainPain by reducing swelling at the site of the damage. Hot compresses are the best home remedy to relieve PainPain after 48 hours. This is a highly effective way to relieve PainPain, according to Dr. Ulm. You can heat the compress in the microwave, which will be ready for use. Hot compresses are best used for joint stiffness or muscle spasms. They increase the blood flow in that area, promoting healing. Apply the compress directly on the site that is causing you discomfort.
CBD
The research into the pain-relieving effects of cannabidiol is still ongoing, but it's promising. A small showed CBD to have a positive impact on moderate-to-severe Pain. However, more evidence is needed to back this claim. Apply topical CBD directly on the pain area and gently massage it into your skin.
CBD statistics
Massage Therapy
Massages can be a great way to relieve tight muscles and sore joints. Research has shown that massage therapy can be an excellent complementary treatment for joint and muscle pain. It relaxes sore muscles and reduces stress and tension. Only a licensed practitioner should perform massage therapy. Discussing the medicine with your doctor is essential to ensure it is appropriate. You may feel more flexible after a massage and be able to continue your stretching routine to keep muscles loose.
Acupuncture
"Acupuncture is a majorstay in Chinese medicine for pain relief, and it has proven its value in pain management," says Dr. Ulm.
Studies on acupuncture have shown its effectiveness in relieving PainPain, especially for joint pain, headaches, neck and back problems, and even rheumatoid and osteoarthritis. Your acupuncturist will place four to ten needles during treatment and keep them there for up to thirty minutes. The procedure will be repeated 12 times in months.
Exercise
Exercise is associated with increased endorphins, decreased stress hormones, and an increased pain threshold. Brijesh Chandwani, DMD BDS, a Connecticut & NY TMJ dentist, stated this. Exercise reduced the severity of chronic PainPain in a study. It also improved physical function. Try a combination of strength training, cardiovascular conditioning, and gentle stretches to reap's benefits. Many sports medicine doctors use the phrase "Motion is Lotion" to emphasize that exercise helps keep joints functioning better than they would without it.
Mindfulness
According to Dr. Chandwani, mindfulness meditation is essential in reducing PainPain. By practicing mindfulness, you can distinguish between physical PainPain and emotional responses. Self-regulation techniques such as deep breathing, relaxing music, or a head-to-toe body scan are all ways that you can deepen your mind-body connection. Mindfulness cultivates self-awareness, which helps you accept PainPain and experience it with less anxiety.
Aromatherapy
According to research, using lavender, peppermint, and rosemary essential oils, aromatherapy effectively reduces back and neck pains, headaches, and arthritis pain. Rub a few drops of the oils into the affected area to benefit from their anti-inflammatory properties (just be sure the oil is dilute). Use an infuser to diffuse the scent, or put a few drops of oil on your pillow.
Boswellia
The herb Boswellia Serrata, or frankincense, is an anti-inflammatory and analgesic. According to studies, boswellia can reduce the symptoms of osteoarthritis. The Arthritis Foundation recommends a daily dose of 100mg.
Magnesium and Zinc
Magnesium, zinc, and other supplements are effective in treating Pain. Dr. Chandwani states that Magnesium is adequate for migraines, headache disorders, muscle cramps, and labor pain. Zinc also shows effectiveness in nerve pain mechanisms.
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Natural remedies for PainPain that don't work
Dr. Chandwani recommends that when natural remedies are not enough, NSAIDs such as Advil, Aleve, and Aspirin (naproxen) can be effective OTC medicines for PainPain. Ibuprofen, the most common painkiller prescribed to children and adults, is the most effective. Naproxen, however, is the better choice if you have long-lasting Pain, as a single dose can last up to 12 hours.
Dr. Ulm explains that acetaminophen and low-dose aspirin are the most safe over-the-counter analgesics during pregnancy. Children can also take acetaminophen or ibuprofen if the dose is based on their weight. Aspirin is not recommended for children or teenagers under 19 because of the risk of Reye Syndrome.
What to do if you have Pain?
It's time to consult a physician if your Pain is persistent or severe, lasts more than several days, or doesn't go away with OTC or natural remedies. Dr. Ulm says that PainPain is nature's damage sensor, a signal to the body that something may be wrong.
Dr. Ulm says it's best to see a doctor if you can't explain your PainPain by an apparent underlying cause, such as a headache or muscle pain caused by the flu. If your PainPain is accompanied by severe symptoms, such as bleeding or a change in the color of your skin, or tenderness, especially if it's accompanied by neurological symptoms, like blurry or tingling vision or dizziness or tingling, you should consult a doctor.ress is reduced on the affected area.
It may be necessary to replace or fuse the arthritic joint. He says there are new options in joint replacement for those suffering from severe damage or
with no cartilage remaining. "We try to preserve the native joints whenever possible."This is important for younger patients because even though the materials used to replace the toes and feet constantly improve, their lifespan is limited.
He explains that optimizing the balance between the foot and the ankle is critical for extending their longevity.
