Did you know that May is National Arthritis Awareness Month? According to recent data from the CDC, nearly 1 out of every 4 Americans are currently diagnosed with a form of arthritis. It’s clear that the time for sharing information and resources is now. To that end, CPI’s pain management associates Benbrook TX specialists (locations also in Bedford and Lewisville) have shared some of the common questions (and answers) that get asked about arthritis. Read on to learn more!
1. What Causes Arthritis?
It’s important to understand that arthritis is an umbrella term for several different conditions. The most common types fall under the category of rheumatoid arthritis or the category of osteoarthritis. Each of these categories has a different cause.
- Rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a disease which tells the body’s immune system to destroy the lining and fluid surrounding the joints.
- Osteoarthritis is caused by overuse, repetitive stress or injury of specific joints.
2. Is There a Cure for Arthritis?
While there is currently no known cure for arthritis, there are many agencies around the world dedicated to resolving this. Each day we grow closer to understanding more about how to prevent, diagnose and treat arthritis. All this information helps research teams gain ground on the goal of discovering a cure.
This means that prevention, early diagnosis and early treatment are all essential parts in the path to a high quality of life with arthritis. Modern chronic pain treatments have grown over the years, many of which are very effective tools for managing arthritis pain. If you or a loved one would like to contribute towards this progress by joining a clinical trial, you can find more information about those opportunities at the Arthritis Foundation’s Clinical Trial Finder.
3. What Aggravates Arthritis Symptoms?
One of the top methods for arthritis pain management is structuring life around activities, diet and exercise that helps keep symptoms under control. That involves being aware of all the items which can trigger flair ups and pain. Depending on the type of arthritis and the severity of the condition, this list can be lengthy. The following are the most common causes:
- A sedentary lifestyle
- Smoking
- Stress
- Obesity
- Inconsistency with treatment(s)
- Poor sleep habits
- High impact exercise modalities
- Weather
4. What Types of Treatments Are Available for Arthritis?
It’s important to keep a trusted care team involved in your journey as you seek out the best possible methods for pain management. As we mentioned earlier, modern medicine has come a long way in developing effective options. Ideally, your team will determine a comprehensive pain management strategy that incorporates multiple types of treatments. Some of the options may include the following:
- Medication: Corticosteroid injections, Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, topical medication, Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs
- Non-Invasive Therapies: Physical therapy, occupational therapy, massage, acupuncture & cognitive therapy
- Surgery: Possible replacement of damaged joint and/or surrounding tissues
For more information about specific treatments, we recommend scheduling an appointment with one of Comprehensive Pain Institute’s Benbrook doctors accepting new patients (locations also in Bedford and Lewisville). Our specialists can help with everything from diagnosis to treatment and everything in between.
5. How Can I Manage My Arthritis at Home?
Finally, there are many things a patient can do from home to help reduce the impact arthritis has on his or her life. Before beginning any new activity, patients should be sure to consult their pain specialist or a member of their care team. Some common effective strategies may include some or all of list below:
- Heat and cold therapy
- Walking
- Swimming and water aerobics
- Achieve and maintain a healthy weight
- Quit smoking
Pain Management Associates Benbrook TX
The Comprehensive Pain Institute offers a wide range of pain management treatment options. We provide patients with the latest, proven treatments that bring sustainable relief. Whether you suffer from chronic pain, or acute pain from a motor vehicle accident, work-related injury or sports injury, CPI has a treatment plan that will work for you. Get in touch today to schedule a consultation at one of our three convenient Texas locations: Benbrook, Bedford and Lewisville.
