Arthritis - Management
Chronic body aches and pain can be torturous and debilitating. For some, there is only so much pain they can handle. However, for Cheryl Trent, pain was part of her life for over a decade. Here is how she was able to get her life back.
Leola, 78, lives in Montgomery, AL. She has suffered from arthritis for decades, but didn t give up on finding ways to cope with and manage this painful condition. Read on to see how she continues to overcome against the pain in her joints.
Acetaminophen (sold as Tylenol) is usually the first line of defense against pain, but does it provide relief for osteoarthritis?
What a study of arthritis in overweight patient shows.
An occupational therapist s advice for pain-free food prep.
Yoga can make you feel stronger, more focused, and less stressed. It can also help relieve joint pain. Learn about an arthritis-friendly form of yoga, as well as some common modifications that will make your practice more comfortable.
You've got places to go and people to see. Don't let arthritis aches, pains, and limitations get in your way.
Are aches your constant companion? You re not alone. Learn more about coping with chronic pain.
This minimally-invasive procedure can address acute and chronic join problems with desirable results and few complications.
If you know how your bones, joints, and muscles operate, and what stops them from functioning properly, you'll be better able to treat your symptoms so you can live with less pain.
Here's the latest on how to deal with the aches, pains, stiffness, and inflammation that are the hallmarks of this disease.
Rheumatoid arthritis doesn't define this funny guy. Learn how Matt is continuing to follow his dreams.
If you're not seeing a specialist or not exercising correctly, you could be doing your health a disservice. Read on for the biggest blunders.
Simply defined, scoliosis is a sideways curve of the spine. Here's how the condition is treated.
Water-related exercise is easy on the body and burns calories, too. Here's how to make a splash.
Some research suggests that leaky gut syndrome, or increased intestinal permeability, is implicated in dozens of diseases including arthritis. Could your diet be to blame?
It's a frustrating condition, one that can make everyday tasks difficult. Here's how to gain strength and flexibility in your hands again.
The out-of-pocket expenses of arthritis care can run sky-high, but there are steps you can take to cut your costs.
Need some help managing your arthritis? One of these options may be just what you re looking for.
Rheumatoid arthritis can increase your chances of infection, especially if you're taking certain medications. Here's how to protect yourself.
Shopping online for your prescription medications can save you time and money. Here's how to ensure you have a positive experience.
This form of treatment uses targeted, customized exercises to help restore motion and relieve pain.
While some supplements seem promising, more research is needed before scientists can safely support this type of treatment for rheumatoid arthritis.
Ongoing research suggests that genetic factors and environmental exposures both play a role in occurrence and symptoms.
A neurotransmitter known as Substance P may hold the key to unlocking the mystery of arthritis pain.
You may think of a bee sting as a painful, and potentially dangerous, nuisance. But studies now show that bee venom may help people with rheumatoid arthritis.
Can a medical procedure used to treat heavy metal poisoning also help ease the pain of arthritis? That's the promise of chelation therapy.
It's long been used to treat swelling of the skin. Find out if emu oil is in fact an effective remedy for joint inflammation.
Cold, damp weather can be tough on joints. To the rescue? Five seasonal don'ts to help you avoid arthritis pain.
What's the best footwear for osteoarthritis of the knee? Sneakers? Clogs? Flip flops? The answer may surprise you.
Curb your sweet tooth, and you just may notice an improvement in your symptoms.
An encounter with Mother Nature can help strengthen your body and invigorate your spirit. Learn more about eco-therapy.
How long in the hospital? How long until recovered? How do they actually replace a knee? Get straightforward answers to these and other questions.
How is a hip replaced? What are symptoms after? What's the recovery time? Get straightforward answers to these and other questions.
Learn how this multi-functional mineral can help support men's health.
The AIR connects those with arthritis-related conditions to clinical researchers. Here's how to become a part of it.
Some pain is to be expected, but some of the best doctor advice on how to handle it will come as a surprise.
It's important to know arthritis can strike at any age because early treatment is key.
You look well. What are the challenges when you feel anything but on the inside?
A little lightness has proved to lessen pain in those with RA.
Vibration therapy may help ease pain related to conditions such as diabetes and arthritis. But it does come with some risks.
How long will you be in the hospital? When will mobility become easier? Here's a road map for recovery.
A plant extract from Asia may help treat eczema, psoriasis, type 1 diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Here's your room-by-room guide to creating a safe and comfortable home environment for your loved one.
Pain is a communication system, but what is it trying to say? Focus on the different types of pain to uncover its secrets.
RA is a chronic disease. Live your best life by avoiding these common mistakes.
Is that burning, tingling, pain and numbness in your hands carpal tunnel syndrome? Your doctor can put it to the test.
The rigors of daily living make the occasional ache commonplace. But when have you crossed the line to chronic pain?
When it comes to arthritis, what are the benefits of eating meat, fish, nuts, and produce, and avoiding anything processed?
When it comes to rheumatoid arthritis, moderate alcohol consumption could reduce symptoms and even lessen one's risk of developing the disease.
This medication can be a blessing and a curse. Here's how to tell if you, or a loved one, have crossed the line into addiction.
This plant can cause swelling and rashes, but it also shows promise in easing arthritis-related pain.
It's easy to think the power to improve is all in the pill, but it's also in the lifestyle changes that help you live well.
Custom-made shoe inserts can help improve balance and reduce pain. Here's what you need to know.
For injury prevention and increased independence, the right type of assistive device is key.
Although arthritis can be debilitating, there are a variety of treatment options to help keep symptoms in check. Here's a look at the disease by the numbers.
How could this therapy help you manage your worst pain symptoms?
Learn how to address pain, fatigue, and other obstacles in a way that works for you and your employer.
Try these special movements that help reduce pain and stiffness, while increasing strength and flexibility.
Recent research offers new information about the best arthritis medications, supplements, and surgeries.
If you have ongoing back pain, OMT offers a holistic approach to pain relief that addresses a variety of physical conditions.
Learn about the most common forms of arthritis, from causes and symptoms to treatment.
Painkillers are powerful medicines, but with them come the real risk of abuse. Understand the myths and determine how to use painkillers safely.
Bringing a pet into your home is a big commitment, but it can come with serious rewards including a potential reduction of your pain.
This rare but serious condition can affect the spleen, the liver, and the entire immune system. Find out who s most at risk.
Children have a strong radar for change, and if they don't know what's going on, they can easily become anxious and disturbed. Difficult as it may be, the best thing you can do is communicate information about your condition, and how it affects them, in a way that helps put their minds at ease.
If you live with chronic pain, you may need painkilling medications to help you make it through the day-to-day grind. However, if you rely too heavily on over-the-counter (OTC) medications, you may run the risk of developing long term and potentially deadly health risks.
When it comes to managing arthritis, knowledge is power, and a lot is known about how to treat various forms of this debilitating condition. Here are some key facts.
Some arthritis patients aren't doing all they can to help themselves. Do any of these utterances sound familiar?
It can be difficult to see someone you care about suffering from pain. You want to help, but you're not sure how. So you cast about for something to say...and you end up making your loved one more upset than before. How did your comment get taken so wrongly? And what should you have said instead?
Typically when you have muscle pain it's equated to soreness from working out or maybe an injury. But what most don't consider is how muscle pain is often associated with chronic health conditions.
Patients who experience joint, bone, and muscle pain really know what it means to be "under the weather." Many patients experience increased pain and stiffness during cold weather. But is there anything you can do about it? Read on to find out.
Physicians and fitness experts are teaming up to help patients exercise their way to wellness.
Researchers have found that arthritis sufferers who have confidence in their ability to set and meet fitness goals tend to do just that, which in turn boosts quality of life and helps keep unpleasant side effects of the condition under control.
An alarming number of older patients fail to continue taking their regular medications after they return home, particularly if they spent time in intensive care.
If the sound of your alarm clock brings dread because your body won't cooperate with you, try these tips for getting yourself up and moving in the morning.
It's perfectly normal to be skeptical of lifting weights, especially if you never have or if you've always been told that you couldn't. Here, we outline how strength training can benefit those suffering from arthritis, fibromyalgia, and common injuries.
Losing that excess weight and becoming active can reduce and even eliminate your pain. But how can you safely get started? Our plan will get you exercising at almost any weight and with nearly any condition.
If you want to live the best life you can with arthritis, you need to stand up for yourself and your condition. Whether you're the one with arthritis or are a caregiver for a spouse or child who has it, it's up to you to ask for the things you need.
Foods from the nightshade plant family contain compounds called alkaloids which some health professionals believe can contribute to joint pain, stiffness, and inflammation.
If arthritis pain bothers you, you may have all but given up on cooking and baking. But there are ways to get back in the kitchen and rediscover your inner chef.
There seems to be an overlap between allergies and a variety of chronic illnesses and researchers are trying to explore why. See what connections have been identified so far.
When you need something fixed, you need the right person for the job. That's never more important than when it's your body that needs fixing. When the problem is related to movement, muscles, joints, pain in the musculoskeletal system, the right person might be a physical therapist.
Visit any gym and you'll no doubt notice at least a few classes that combine two different disciplines. Aside from being trendy and allowing participants to engage different muscles, do these hybrid workouts offer anything for the arthritis patient?
New studies find that the power of positive thinking applies to how well pain medication works.
A physician who performs an arthrogram will be able to see how badly damaged or deteriorated a joint is and can recommend surgery or other treatment options based upon the results.
What does it mean when your joints get puffy and sore? If you've had an injury or accident, you know what caused it. But what if it comes out of nowhere? Here, our list for what causes unexplained joint inflammation.
Because rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic illness, it can affect other parts of the body. And the lungs are one area where problems often surface.
Bone spurs are smooth overgrowths of normal bone that can occur anywhere on your body, although they're commonly found on the spine, hips, knees, shoulders, and neck.
When it hurts to be active, it's hard to stay connected. Read on to break free from pain's captivity.
Smokers who receive treatment for early rheumatoid arthritis respond less vigorously than people who have never picked up a cigarette.
Patients with chronic pain have many choices and decisions to make when it comes to pain management. One of them includes Fentanyl Transdermic Patches. While they can provide strong, effective relief, they're not right for all conditions.
Rheumatoid arthritis can wreak havoc on many parts of the body, including the skin. This can take the form of rheumatoid nodules, bumpy growths under the skin that usually occur near an arthritic joint.
Arthritis of the foot and ankle can be particularly frustrating because it may hinder your ability to get around.
While a blood clot can happen to anybody, people with autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus have a higher than average risk of experiencing this potentially dangerous condition.
Homeopathic medicine is gaining recognition as a natural, safe and effective treatment for pain, but what exactly is it and how does it work? Could homeopathic pain treatments be right for you?
This condition is the result of damage to the intestinal lining, which allows larger-than-normal particles such as undigested food, microbes, wastes, and toxins to get into the lymphatic system or bloodstream, triggering an immune response that causes inflammation.
The healing power of music has been well known for as long as men and women have played and enjoyed it. But does it really possess healing power for pain patients? Find out here.
There are several ways to stay active without risking your joint health.
Ankylosing spondylitis is an arthritic condition affecting the joints that connect the spinal bones and those that hold the pelvis and spine together.
This condition occurs when a person's white blood cells damage the glands that produce moisture throughout the body. Dry eyes and mouth are typical symptoms, but the disease can trigger serious malfunctions in major organs.
Chronic pain can take a toll on a relationship, but it's important to remember that your spouse isn't a mind reader and neither are you. Good communication is important in any marriage, but it's crucial in a partnership in which one person has a medical condition.
There's a good chance you've come across information stating that magnetic jewelry can help with arthritis-related pain. But can donning a bracelet or ring made from magnetic material really quell your symptoms?
Ever feel like cursing when your arthritis pain makes getting up from a chair difficult? Or when you wake up stiff and sore? Instead of gritting your teeth and bearing it, consider letting those dirty words fly.
Poor sleep and chronic pain often go hand-in-hand. While there are a variety of treatments to help you through the night, could Cognitive Behavioral Therapy be the best bet? Find out here.
How do you know if you have degenerative disc disease? If you have low back pain, are in your thirties or forties, and are otherwise healthy, you're a typical sufferer.
Here's a list of five do's and don'ts to follow so that you can take control of your health and start loving life again.
Which workouts to try--and which ones to avoid--if you have RA.
If you don't have the luxury of flying south for the season, here are some ways to get through the chill without undue stress on your joints.
While rheumatoid arthritis itself isn't a fatal disease, it can cause complications that may very well affect lifespan as well as quality of life. Here are five possible medical issues that rheumatoid arthritis patients may experience.
While arthritis may be unavoidable for some, many of us could be doing more to keep our joints safe. Whether you've been diagnosed with arthritis or are looking for ways to prevent it, here are some simple ways to be good to your joints.
If you experience deep, painful aches, you may wonder if it could stem from allergies in some way, although it's possible for them to co-occur, experts say that joint pain and allergies are usually not related.
Is anything more soothing for sore muscles and tender joints than heat and massage? That s the attraction for most topical pain relief creams, but do any of them really work? With so many on the market, what s the best one to buy?
Studies have identified a link between rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and other autoimmune diseases. So if you have RA, are you destined for a diagnosis of another autoimmune condition down the road? Quite possibly.
Why do some people get arthritis of the thumb and how can you manage this condition?
DISH occurs when the ligaments that attach to the spine harden, often causing pain and discomfort in the affected areas.
If you're among those who can feel the weather in your bones via stiff, achy joints, here's what you need to know about what may (or may not) be causing it and what you can do to loosen up.
In a University of Miami study, 261 patients with knee osteoarthritis received either a twice-daily dose of ginger extract or a placebo. After six weeks, the subjects were asked whether they experienced less knee pain upon standing than before. The results were significant.
Enteropathic arthritis, a chronic illness that is one of a family of diseases known as spondylarthritides, is associated with Inflammatory Bowel Disease.
If you have pain in your joints, hear popping or creaking sounds when you move, or feel stiff after sitting for a while, your joints may be under too much stress.
Why does growing older go hand in hand with osteoarthritis? Where does the disease usually manifest itself? Here, get honest answers to four questions surrounding the disease.
A new study demonstrates that people may one day be able to grow their own new, natural joints.
How do you know if it's time to visit an orthopedic surgeon? Well, you may want to consider scheduling an appointment if you have pain that won't let up, diminished function, or any deformity of your musculoskeletal system.
Can this horrible smelling toxic gas secreted by the body and produced by factories actually reduce arthritis inflammation? Some studies are saying so.
If pain is part of your daily life, you're not alone and you're not helpless. Millions of people who suffer from arthritis, migraines, fibromyalgia, back pain and other chronic pain conditions live with some level of pain every day.
More than half of all Americans who have diabetes also have arthritis, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
You might not think that a disease such as rheumatoid arthritis, which causes inflamed joints, would have anything to do with the heart. Research indicates, however, that patients with rheumatoid arthritis are in fact at an increased risk of cardiac problems.
Fibromyalgia affects about one out of 50 people, with women much more susceptible than men. The main symptom of fibromyalgia is a widespread dull ache affecting multiple spots on the body, typically muscular in nature. Here, learn more about this condition.
If you've been suffering from arthritis in your basal joint, the joint located at the base of the thumb, your doctor may have recommended surgery. But what exactly is involved in basal-joint surgery? And is it something you should even consider?
Buying a new mattress can be a big undertaking for anyone. But for people with arthritis, the right mattress can mean the difference between a pain-filled night and a comfortable one. So, how do you know which kind to choose?
While arthritis typically causes pain and stiffness, some sufferers experience numbness in affected areas as well. What causes this numbness, and how can it be alleviated?
While the jaw may not seem like a likely place to experience arthritis pain, it can and does happen. Here, 5 ways to quell the pain.
Swelling can come after a long day of activity, after certain meals, or even just because of the weather. How can you deal with this difficult symptom so that it doesn't stop you from living a fulfilling life?
When it comes to managing your arthritis, walking and swimming are both ideal exercise options. They allow you to get your heart rate up while going easy on your joints and keeping pain at bay. But did you know you can actually combine both pursuits for a different kind of workout?
Evening primrose oil contains an omega-6 fatty acid that the body uses to make prostaglandins, hormones that supposedly help regulate the immune system. In theory, this would help patients manage rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease. But does it?
Sure, brushing your teeth can lead to a healthy mouth and even a healthy heart...but healthy joints. Quite possibly, according to a recent study.
Osteoarthritis can affect any joint in the body. But it tends to be somewhat predictable, typically occurring in just a handful of major weight-bearing joints. Learn how the disease manifests itself in each of these areas.
A team at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago examined 31 people who suffer from osteoarthritis of the knee and came up with interesting results.
By taking the right preemptive steps, you don t have to endure severe pain after surgery.
If you suffer from arthritis, you're probably all too familiar with the pain. But did you know that a remedy for your discomfort may lie in something you already do multiple times a minute?
For years, many people have believed that arthritis sufferers do best in dry, warm climates and worse in areas that are typically cold and wet. How much truth is behind this belief?
Scientists in Canada believe they may have found the key to preventing this extremely painful condition.
Find out how this ancient practice works and how it could actually help you ease your arthritis pain.
Many of the foods that you eat may be making your pain worse. Knowing what foods to avoid and what other dietary changes you can make to eliminate your pain could be the key to changing the quality of your life.
The life of an arthritis sufferer can often feel like a never ending search for pain relief, but chiropractic and massage could offer new hope.
Arthritis pain relief just may be as simple as applying athletic tape.
If you suffer from arthritis, you already know that sleeping in certain positions can make your symptoms even worse upon awakening.
Osteoarthritis is a prevalent disease that affects about 27 million Americans. Get the necessary information about this common condition.
While wearing well-fitting footwear is a good idea for anyone, it's particularly important for people with arthritis.
Although they may seem similar, polymyalgia rheumatica and rheumatoid arthritis are actually two separate diseases. But how do you know what you re dealing with?
Certain conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, can make eating and nutrient absorption difficult. People with this disease need to pay particular attention to their diets to avoid becoming malnourished.
Have you ever wondered whether your morning cup (or two or three) of coffee has any impact on your Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Can popping a pill made of chicken-breast cartilage help rheumatoid arthritis sufferers get relief? A group of researchers at Anhui Medical University in China thinks so.
Shoveling snow is extremely taxing on anyone, but when you suffer from arthritis, this chore is especially stressful. Our tips help make it easier.
You're familiar with the most common symptoms of RA, but there are other less frequent ones. Find out how to cope.
It's nearly impossible to effectively manage Rheumatoid Arthritis without the use of medication, but being aware of how to properly reduce dosage without withdrawal is critical.
Although intimacy may be more of a challenge when you—or your partner—has arthritis, sex and arthritis don't have to be incompatible.
Here are some important things to consider when evaluating whether your physical therapist is a good fit for you.
Have you noticed that your arthritis pain becomes worse in certain weather conditions? If so, you re not alone and it s not all in your head. There is an association between temperature, humidity and barometric pressure and joint pain.
This year, make a commitment to yourself to successfully manage your arthritis and enjoy the holidays.
Have you or a loved one survived a life-threatening disease? Are you currently struggling with depression, chronic pain, heart disease, or other health-related condition? Have you gone to extraordinary lengths to help someone in a health crisis? If so, we want to hear from you!
As anyone who s tossed and turned all night can attest, sleep is important to our overall health and quality of life. Occasional sleepless nights are bothersome, but not harmful. Prolonged insomnia, however, is another story.
Rid yourself of stiff joints today.
Over 40 but feel twice your age? How to increase the fight against arthritis.
Basil plants show promise as natural remedies for arthritis.
Trouble sleeping decreases overall quality of life in patients with chronic pain and diseases and can even aggravate disease symptoms.
If you have arthritis, you may be apprehensive about exercising your upper body for fear of hurting yourself or causing pain. Relax. Exercising is actually beneficial.
Glucosamine, a popular herbal supplement to relieve joint pain in conditions such as arthritis, may affect your blood pressure.
When you have arthritis, ensuring that your bones remain healthy is a top priority. Here are some common foods that will help keep your skeleton strong.
Medications used to treat arthritis are very effective, but can cause adverse reactions. Find out how to fight common side effects of arthritis drugs.
Smoking contributes to the onset of rheumatoid arthritis and worsens some symptoms of this autoimmune disease.
Learn how omega 3 fatty acids relieve rheumatoid arthritis symptoms such as inflammation and lowers risks of health complications associated with this autoimmune condition.
Is night pain ruining your after-work activities and sleep? Here, ten ways to relieve it.
Information and tips about rheumatoid arthritis and pregnancy.
An overview of the link between rheumatoid arthritis and osteoporosis. Plus, how to build healthy bones and reduce your risk of this bone-thinning disease that increases your risk of fractures.
Turmeric's ingredient, curcumin, blocks inflammation and protects bones from arthritis.
The news could be hard to swallow. Here, what to expect after a diagnosis of RA.
Learn how rheumatoid arthritis can affect your eyes.
Studies increasingly show the benefits of fish oil for rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.
Conjugated linoleic acid found in milk may relieve some symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
Natural eggshell membrane shows impressive results as a new osteoarthritis treatment in research studies.
Summer camp can still be fun for your child with JRA. Try these tips.
Make life easier despite your arthritis.
Study finds that ultrasound testing may not be efficient at predicting the progress of rheumatoid arthritis.
There s no consensus on how humidity and hot weather affects rheumatoid arthritis, but there are ways to cope with your rheumatoid arthritis flares during the summer months.
As several drug studies show, arthritis remission seems even more achievable.
The low-down on how obesity and overweight affect rheumatoid arthritis.
Contrary to what you may believe, it s possible for juvenile arthritis and sports to be compatible. Find out how to help your child with juvenile arthritis participate and stay active.
Simple adjustments can increase bathroom safety when you have arthritis and reduce your risk of falls and injury.
Wondering if this popular exercise can help your condition? Here are 7 things you need to know about practicing yoga for arthritis in your hip.
Many people with arthritis find that heat treatments can relieve their arthritis symptoms.
Discover the key reasons why you may not be able to get your rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis under control.
From an early age you re urged to get your vitamins. These nutrients are essential to many functions in the body, including protection against diseases such as arthritis. Several studies have downplayed the role of vitamins A, C, and E in treating arthritis. However, we ve uncovered vital vitamin info that can help alleviate symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.
Read on to find out the truth behind six common myths.
Here are 10 disabilities arthritis causes that you should be aware of.
Study shows that working with an occupational therapist can relieve hand arthritis.
Range-of-motion exercises help to keep your joints and muscles loose and limber when you have arthritis. Here s how to squeeze them into your busy day.
Bone damage is common in arthritics. Find out how to increase your bone strength.
Exercises that strengthen, stabilize and improve flexibility can improve your balance when you have arthritis. Even better, some of them can be fun.
Tips to make getting ready easier when you re living with arthritis
Information and coping tips for parents and caregivers
Learn how those cocktails can make your arthritis worse and safer ways to drink
Find out why acupuncture is growing in popularity with arthritis sufferers.
If you re one of the 1.3 million Americans living with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), you know that flares are a part of the disease.
Whether you suffer from osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, your muscles, tendons and ligaments can become stiff and start to shorten. Without proper care, you ll lose motor function and become more prone to injury.
If your child is one of the many who suffers from juvenile arthritis today, did you know that helping him stay active can be an important part of managing his condition?
It may sound more like a fantasy than a reality, but some believe that this water can help ease arthritic pain.
When rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis targets your knees even routine activities such as walking, bending, or sitting can be challenging. These conditions make joints stiff and painful, and limit your mobility. They also weaken and tighten your muscles.
The healing power of water is no secret. From the hot springs in ancient Greece to the cleansing power of the Ganges in India, water is widely recognized for its therapeutic properties. Many people with arthritis are discovering it s true.
Can eliminating or adding certain foods relieve arthritis symptoms?
Don't let arthritis stop your active lifestyle.
Find out how the treatment for your arthritis can be all natural.
Be in the know when it comes to arthritis medication.