Arthritis is an extremely common condition. More than one in five American adults has some form of arthritis. If not managed carefully, arthritis can cause significant disability that can negatively impact daily functioning and your ability to participate in activities you enjoy.
When you have arthritis, whether it’s in your back, hips, knees, or hands, it may be painful to move. You may stop being as active to avoid the pain. However, research has shown that staying active can actually help reduce your arthritis pain and stiffness.
At The Painless Center, we’re here to help you manage your arthritis pain. Dr. Jason Chiu is an experienced and compassionate doctor who takes the time to listen to you and understand your symptoms. He develops a personalized arthritis treatment plan that addresses your symptoms and your overall wellness.
In arthritis, one or more of your joints become swollen and tender, and you may experience joint stiffness and pain. Although there are several different types of arthritis, the most common ones are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
In osteoarthritis, the cartilage that covers the ends of your bones at your joints breaks down, causing the bones to impact each other. Rheumatoid arthritis causes the immune system to attack the joints and break down the joint linings. Both types of arthritis have similar symptoms.
The symptoms of arthritis can vary depending on the location of your arthritis and its severity. Arthritis symptoms generally include:
Arthritis symptoms can worsen if not properly treated. Staying active is an important component of managing your arthritis.
Research suggests that physical activity can help reduce the pain and other symptoms of arthritis in the long term. If your joints hurt, it can be hard to get moving, but it will help you cope with your condition. Exercise can:
It’s important to come up with an exercise plan that works for you, allowing you to stay active without causing damage to your joints. Low-impact exercises, such as swimming and bicycling, are typically the best options.
The pain and stiffness of arthritis can be hard to live with, but with proper treatment, you can continue to do the things you need to do and participate in activities you enjoy. Dr. Jason Chiu works closely with you to develop a treatment plan for your arthritis that fits your needs and lifestyle. Staying active is an important component of arthritis management.
If you have arthritis or other conditions that need pain management, call The Painless Center to set up an appointment today!
