Pain, stiffness, swelling, redness and decreased range of motion are some tell-tale signs of arthritis. Osteoarthritis, in particular, is a common condition, especially in older adults and athletes.
What Exactly Is Arthritis?
There are three primary types of arthritis: osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis.
- Osteoarthritis: Inflammation caused by worn-out cartilage on the ends of bones. As the degradation worsens, nerves become irritated—resulting in pain.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune condition in which the body’s system attacks itself. Sometimes, this type can lead to osteoarthritis.
- Psoriatic Arthritis: Autoimmune issue that impacts the joints and skin. It may lead to osteoarthritis as well.
Think of osteoarthritis like this: If you look at pavement or a road top, and you see that there are many potholes, more potholes than asphalt, that is similar to osteoarthritis. Your cartilage ends up with many potholes in it. It particularly becomes painful because once you wear your cartilage down, the nerves in the joint located at the end of the bone are right on the other side of the cartilage and are now exposed. That’s why people feel pain.
Who Gets Osteoarthritis?
The top risk factors for osteoarthritis are age, gender, obesity, and genetics. Unfortunately, the only real modifiable risk is obesity. It is more common in women than men, especially after age 50.
Treatment Options
Many people assume an arthritis diagnosis means surgery. In truth, surgery should be the last resort. Typical non-invasive treatments include:
Adjustments in footwear. The more cushion, the better. Every step you take, your joint absorbs the impact. Added cushion softens the shock.
Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol). Individuals should only use ibuprofen short-term. Long-term use may affect the liver, kidneys, or digestive system. Tylenol is the safest and best OTC medication for osteoarthritis. Of course, arthritis patients should always consult with their doctor.
Weight loss. Many people with arthritis say, “I need to exercise to lose weight. Exercising hurts.” But, there are many non-weight bearing exercises individuals can use. Pool walking is a good option because of the “weightless” sensation. Riding a recumbent bike and using an elliptical machine are two other options. If individuals are able, a treadmill provides more cushion than walking outdoors. Diet also plays a crucial role in weight loss.
Physical therapy. Experts trained in physical therapy can design specific exercises and stretches. They may also be able to help with ergonomics, such as setting up a workstation.
Supportive devices. It’s understandable for individuals to be reluctant about using canes. They don’t want to seem “old” or incapable. Another option is trekking poles. Some call these poles “fashionable canes,” but they are also functional.
Osteoarthritis and Running
One arthritis myth is that runners are more prone to develop the condition. If you are an avid runner and don’t have arthritis, keep running because research has shown that recreational runners do not have more chance of developing knee and hip arthritis compared to non-runners or sedentary people, including long-distance runners. In fact, some studies indicate that running can be beneficial to joints.
The bottom line is: if you’re a runner, keep running. If you start to develop arthritis, then you will need to slow things down. But as long as you don’t have it, keep up going. Running is great for your joints.
Relief Is Possible
Experiencing symptoms related to arthritis? Speak with your primary care physician. A referral to a joint specialist may be what you need to find relief.
Listen to a Podcast
Arthritis and Joint Health
Pain, stiffness, swelling, redness and decreased range of motion are some of the tell-tale signs of arthritis. It is a common condition, especially in older adults and athletes. In this podcast, learn from joint expert Keona Holliday, PA-C, what arthritis is and what the treatment options are, including at-home joint care. Listen to the podcast.
More to Read
- Osteoarthritis: 5 Foods to Eat and 5 to Avoid to Help Control your Symptoms
- 6 Ways Arthritis Puts Pressure on Your Health
- Ouch! What That Ache or Pain is Telling You
- The Most Common Endurance Sports Injuries and How to Treat Them
Medically reviewed by Keona Holliday, PA.
