Arthritis is a common disorder that refers to joint pain or joint disease, causing pain, stiffness, or inflammation due to swelling or breakdown of a person’s joints within the body. This makes it harder for the person to move their body due to the joints becoming stiff, often targeting hands, feet, hips, knees, and the lower back area. This results in a decreased range of motion along with other symptoms such as redness, swelling, and pain.
There are many different types of arthritis, some of which are either a result of cartilage breaking down due to wear and tear, or sometimes due to the immune system directly attacking the joints themselves. The most common risk factors for developing arthritis can include family history, age, genetics, sex, lifestyle choices such as smoking and obesity, and joint injury.
Developing the condition can make it harder to walk or sit up straight, and in some cases, it can make joints lose their alignment and shape. Surgery might even be required in extreme situations, such as cases where bones are permanently fused together or a joint replacement might be needed.
Preventing and treating arthritis is manageable with a combination of lifestyle changes and receiving medical treatment.
Some ways ways to prevent and treat arthritis include:
- Moderate exercise and physical activity
- Maintaining a healthy diet
- Avoiding tobacco products
- Managing body weight and low-impact activities
- Controlling blood sugar to prevent cartilage stifling
- Reduce the risk of joint injuries and other illnesses
Most importantly, it’s always beneficial to consult a medical professional to find treatment options that work best for you. Bright Care Medical Group is dedicated to bringing highly specialized medical care provided by a qualified, compassionate, and unique medical team. We are ready to assist you in improving your well-being and creating the ideal lifestyle best for your health.
If you have any questions or want to learn more, you can visit our website or you can reach us by calling (352) 708-3021 to schedule an appointment with our medical team.