3 Things Everyone Living with Arthritis Should Know

From news-journal.net

Arthritis includes more than 100 rheumatic diseases and conditions that affect joints. If you are living with arthritis, here are a few things you should consider.

1. Arthritis can affect people of all ages.Many people think of arthritis as an affliction that only affects adults as they reach old age or athletes who have suffered an injury (known as osteoarthritis). Although the incidence of arthritis does increase with age, younger people can also be affected by the disease. Autoimmune forms of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis, often strike people by the time they are middle-aged. Overall, it’s estimated that nearly one-fourth of all adults in the United States (22.7 percent, 54.4 million) have doctor-diagnosed arthritis. Seven percent of 18-44 year olds and 29 percent of 45-64 year olds report doctor-diagnosed arthritis, according to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention.

2. You can now track your condition better and get support.

Being diagnosed with a lifelong, chronic disease like arthritis can be overwhelming. Finding support, from friends, family, colleagues and online communities can help. For example, ArthritisPower, accessed online or downloaded as a free mobile app for android and iPhone, allows people with all forms of arthritis to track symptoms and treatments to see how they are doing over time. Users can send their results to doctors in advance of appointments to encourage more personalized and productive discussions. Note that ArthritisPower is a research registry. That means people must sign an informed consent to donate their data to researchers and learn more about other specific research studies announced in the app. The more people who participate in the registry, the more scientists can discover about arthritis. To learn more, visit arthritispower.org.

3. Surgery can help.
In healthy joints, cartilage covers the ends of bones, allowing them to move smoothly and without pain. When arthritis (all forms) wears away or damages the protective cartilage, and other non-surgical treatments have proved unsuccessful, joint replacement (usually of the knee or the hip) is typically recommended, according to the American College of Rheumatology.
When an orthopedic surgeon replaces a joint, it involves removing worn out cartilage from both sides of the joint, followed by resurfacing of the joint with a metal and plastic replacement implant that looks and functions much like a normal joint. Over the past two decades, the safety and effectiveness of surgery, and the variety of hip and knee joint replacement devices has improved, thanks to research driven by surgeons and device makers. What’s missing, say experts, is a better understanding of patient experiences and preferences, particularly regarding what they value when making the decision to undergo surgery, pick a surgeon, and select a device.
“The good news is that this research is underway by patient-led research communities, such as ArthritisPower,” says W. Benjamin Nowell, Ph.D., Director of Patient-Centred Research at CreakyJoints, the online patient support community.
If you need joint surgery, it’s important that your preferences are central to your decision making at every step of the way, from timing of surgery, surgeon, implant device and recovery plan. Make sure to ask questions, get second opinions, and seek support. Surgery and recovery can be hard, but talking about them shouldn’t be.

http://www.news-journal.net/online_features/health_and_wellness/article_b525d588-3dd8-5098-be67-f7b86a77430b.html

5 types of arthritis and how to tell the difference

From foxnews.com

Throughout your life, you’ve probably heard an aging person joke about their stiffening joints. “I’m just getting old,” they'll say. To an extent, there is truth to that remark. Even so, as you age, realize that joint pain is still not a normal part of life.

You should not dismiss it since painful joints may mean the onset of arthritis. In addition, by catching the problem early, you could save yourself a lot of unnecessary pain.

In the United States, over 50 million people suffer from arthritis, according to the CDC. A huge number of these—60 percent—are between the working ages of 18 and 64.

Many sufferers find difficulty in performing essential job tasks, and in some cases, their condition keeps them from working at all. Aside from the economic effects, arthritis can also prevent people from getting adequate exercise and can significantly reduce the quality of life.
Which Type of Arthritis?

To deal with arthritis properly, you should first work with your doctor to find out which type you or your loved one has. While there are over 100 different types possible, most Americans suffer from only a few.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
According to the Arthritis Foundation, over 1 million Americans suffer from rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This condition is actually an autoimmune response, meaning that the immune system is attacking the joints or parts of the body that affect the joints. As the immune system attacks, the joints get damaged and inflamed, causing an array of problems for the sufferer.
Symptoms include pain and stiffness in major joints like the hands or legs, swelling that lasts for hours, fatigue, appetite and weight loss or joints that feel warm to the touch. The pain is usually severe and can last all day for some people.
If you’re experiencing this type of joint pain, you should see a doctor immediately. Because of the immune response, RA can affect other vital organs in the body. 
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a highly common type of arthritis, so common that most people are referring to OA when they talk about arthritis in general. According to the CDC, nearly 30 million adults are suffering from this condition in the U.S.
How does OA happen? It occurs when a joint in the body begins breaking down because of wear and tear, often due to aging, injuries or obesity. Usually, people get OA in their knees, hips and hands, and the condition happens over time as the cartilage wears down.
Symptoms include stiffness in the morning or after long rests, aching pain, pain when walking, bending or gripping objects, swelling and a joint that is warm to the touch. Because symptoms worsen slowly, you may notice the pain come and go.
Gout
Another common type of arthritis is gout. This type usually affects men and those who are obese and is caused by an increase in uric acid in the body.
Unlike other arthritis types, gout will flare up for a period and then go into remission for months before another flare-up again. If a person gets regular flare-ups, they may eventually find the gout worsening into gouty arthritis.
Symptoms include intense pain, redness, swelling and heat around the joint. Also, it usually affects one joint at a time and occurs in weight-bearing areas like the big toe, ankle or knee.
Juvenile Arthritis
Juvenile arthritis (JA) is actually an umbrella term that refers to arthritis in children under 16. JA is usually caused by an autoimmune response, although experts cannot find a clear cause. Different types of JA can affect a child’s entire body or specific areas like the tendons.
Typical symptoms that parents should watch for are stiffness, swelling and tenderness, rash, limping, eye redness and vision problems, irritability and a persistent fever.
Psoriatic Arthritis
Finally, many patients are suffering from psoriatic arthritis. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, 30 percent of all those affected by the skin condition will also suffer from psoriatic arthritis. Those affected usually get psoriasis first, a skin condition that causes scaly, raised, red and white patches of inflamed skin around the body.
This condition can then lead to inflammation in the joints, causing arthritis. Symptoms include swollen joints, especially the fingers and toes, discoloured fingernails, swelling and sometimes back pain.
In any of these cases, those suffering with arthritis should follow a few lifestyle steps outlined by the CDC. These steps will help manage the arthritis and keep up healthy motivation.

1. Find support programs.
2. Maintain moderate exercise at least 5 days per week.
3. Manage a healthy weight.
4. Check in with your doctor about symptoms and treatment.

Arthritis affects millions of Americans, hampering movement and quality of life as the condition worsens. By understanding your type of arthritis fully and getting support, you can succeed in managing this often crippling condition. If you are experiencing regular joint pain, talk to your doctor right away.

http://www.foxnews.com/health/2017/09/26/5-types-arthritis-and-how-to-tell-difference.html

Stay a Step Ahead of Foot and Ankle Pain

From statesmanjournal.com

Our feet support us-and we should support our feet. Since about 75% of people in the United States will experience foot pain of some type in their lives, it makes sense to be aware of some common problems and what you can do to live your life as pain free as possible. Drs. Kelly McCormick and Monica Zilkoski of Hope Orthopedics give some insight into two of the more common foot problems that can be corrected and/or managed through orthopedic treatment-Bunions and Foot and Ankle Arthritis.

Bunions:

Bunions typically happen overtime, and are more than just a bump on the side of the foot-a bunion is actually reflecting a change in foot anatomy. Bunions form when the toe is forced in toward the rest of the toes, causing a rubbing of the bone against the side of the shoe. This creates inflammation in the underlying tissue and forms the bump that grows into a bunion.

Treatment for a bunion:

If non-surgical treatments (like wearing proper fitting shoes or using custom orthotics) do not provide relief, surgical treatment can be used to correct the position of the toe and remove the bunion.

Good candidates for bunion surgery commonly have:

Significant foot pain that limits normal activity including standing for a period of time and walking

Inflammation and swelling that does not go away with rest or over the counter medications-such as ibuprofen

Toe deformity-the big toe moving in and “crowding” the other toes or appearing as if it may “cross over” the other toes

Inability to straighten or bend the big toe

Pain that doesn’t go away even after changing to proper fitting footwear

After bunion surgery, most patients have less foot pain and are better able to participate in everyday activities.

Another very common condition in the foot and ankle, is arthritis. “Arthritis” means "joint inflammation, and is a general term for a group of more than 100 diseases. If you’re feeling pain and stiffness in your feet and ankles, it is likely caused by arthritis. There is no cure for arthritis, but there are many treatment options to control or slow the progression of the condition. Early detection and treatment are important, so if you think you may have arthritis, it’s best to get treatment as soon as possible.

Symptoms of Arthritis:

• Pain with motion and pain that flares up with activity
• Tenderness when pressure is applied to the joint
• Joint swelling, warmth, and redness, particularly after sitting or resting

You may need surgery if your pain isn’t relieved by non-surgical treatment such as a regimen of ibuprofen, injections (steroids), physical therapy, weight loss, or custom orthotics-like shoe inserts or braces.

Surgical Treatment:

• Arthroscopic surgery (inserting a small instrument through a small opening) can help in early stages of arthritis by removing loose cartilage, inflamed tissue, and bone spurs from around the joint.
• Fusion surgery fuses bones together using rods, pins, screws, or plates to hold the joint in a permanent position-fusing the bone over time and eliminating the joint.
• Total Ankle Replacement surgery involves replacing the ankle joint with artificial implants after your doctor has removed the damaged cartilage and bone.

Total ankle replacement is not as common as total hip or total knee replacement but advances in implant design have made it a great option for many people. Hope Orthopedics doctor Kelly McCormick was the first surgeon to perform a total ankle replacement in the state of Oregon.

“People don’t even know that it exists, but it’s really common,” McCormick said. “The surgery itself takes a few hours to do. In some cases, it can be done on outpatient basis, but typically people spend a night in the hospital afterward.”

Total Ankle Replacement is most often recommended for patients who have:

• Advanced arthritis of the ankle
• Arthritis that has destroyed the ankle joint surfaces
• Ankle pain that interferes with daily activities

Ankle replacement relieves the pain of arthritis and offers patients more mobility and movement than fusion.

Determining the cause of your foot problem, whether it be bunions, or a type of arthritis is critical for finding out what treatment will work for you. Because they are Board Certified and Fellowship Trained Orthopedic Surgeons (meaning they’ve had extensive medical training plus specialty orthopedic training in foot and ankle from an accredited fellowship program) Orthopedic Foot and Ankle specialists Dr. McCormick and Dr. Zilkoski can quickly determine the cause of your pain and formulate the best treatment plan for your needs.

Support your feet, and they’ll support you.

http://www.statesmanjournal.com/story/promo/2017/09/25/stay-step-ahead-foot-and-ankle-pain/105995510/

Green thumb feeling blue? How to garden with hand arthritis

From aahs.org

If you love to garden, you’re not alone. Almost 75 percent of all U.S. households work on their lawn and garden, according to a 2016 National Gardening Survey.
While it may seem like a chore to some, working in your garden can actually be good for both your mind and body. Benefits include exposure to Vitamin D and stress relief, to name just a few.
But what if you’re one of the 50 million Americans who have arthritis? According to the Arthritis Foundation, there are more than 100 different types of arthritis and related conditions that cause joint pain. Two of the most common are degenerative and inflammatory arthritis.
Degenerative arthritis (osteoarthritis) involves degeneration of joint cartilage, causing joint pain, stiffness and loss of mobility in hands and wrists. Inflammatory arthritis is an autoimmune disease that occurs when uncontrolled inflammation leads to joint erosion.
The type of arthritis you have determines how you manage it. But arthritis doesn’t have to keep you from enjoying a day in your garden. Getting your hands dirty without extra pain can be as simple as working smarter, not harder.
Here are some tips for a more enjoyable gardening season:

• Listen to your doctor or therapist’s advice to manage pain.
• Make your garden easier to access. For example, raise your garden beds so they’re easier to reach. Choose low-maintenance plants, such as perennials instead of annuals.
• Choose tools and equipment that encourage good body mechanics and minimize strain. Examples include lightweight tools, tools with ergonomic handles and gloves to protect and cushion joints.
• Modify your activity in the garden as necessary. Switch tasks every half hour, take breaks and ask for help if you need it.
• When possible, use larger, stronger joints and muscles. For instance, use your forearms and shoulders to carry objects instead of your fingers or hands.
• Listen to your body, and stop if you feel pain. Minimize repetitive pinching and gripping, as well as sustained gripping.
• Weed when the soil is moist.

If you have arthritis that is causing wrist or hand pain, talk to a medical professional.  A doctor, physical therapist or occupational therapist can give you a personalized treatment and pain management plan.
Having arthritis doesn’t mean you have to give up growing flowers, fruits and vegetables. Protect your joints, and avoid overuse and fatigue to help keep you in the gardening game.

http://www.aahs.org/living/?p=70071

Rheumatoid Arthritis: Home Remedies for Hip Pain Relief

From everydayhealth.com

Ease RA hip pain with these easy, feel-good moves.

Do your hips hurt? In the early stages of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), most of the pain and joint destruction happen in the hands and feet. Over time, however, and especially if you also have osteoarthritis, pain can strike your hips as well.
While there’s no magic bullet to stop all hip pain, experts say there are some home remedies you can add to your medication regimen to lessen the agony. Of course, if the pain is severe or comes out of the blue, call your physician. And always get a doctor’s clearance for workouts if you haven’t been exercising regularly.

1. Warm or Ice Hip Joints

People living with rheumatoid arthritis frequently use temperature, or hot and cold therapy, to soothe achy joints. Indeed, this is one of the most widespread coping methods, according to a study published online in the Scandinavian Journal of Occupational Therapy in January 2017. Whether people use heat (via baths, saunas, heating pads) or cold (ice, going outside in winter) is largely a personal preference, the study found, although in general, heat was selected for everyday aches while cold was favoured for acute flares. One study participant marvelled at how he “never walked so many stairs” as he did while visiting a warm, southern location.

2. Stretch and Loosen Hips With Pliés

Stretching and strengthening the quadriceps and gluteus muscles in the legs and buttocks frees up the surrounding joints that may otherwise be constrained, says Miranda Esmonde-White, the author of the book Forever Painless and the longstanding host of the PBS exercise show Classical Stretch.

To do her “Tai Chi plié with hip swing,” (shown above) follow these steps:

1. Stand beside the back of a chair. Spread your legs in a comfortably wide stance, and hold the chair with one hand. (If this challenges your balance too much, stand facing the back of the chair and grasp it with both hands.)
2. Turn out your toes like a ballet dancer. Keeping your spine straight, slowly bend your knees and plié either a small amount or all the way to the level of your knees. Be sure your knees are in line with your feet; if not, adjust the width of your stance.
3. While you are in this position, slowly swing your hips from left to right and back again, as far as you comfortably can. (See photos above.) Swing a total of 8 times before you centre your hips and slowly straighten your knees.
4. Repeat this sequence 2 to 4 times.

3. Lie on Your Stomach to Relax Tight Hip Flexors

People with hip pain typically try not to stand much, since it can be an uncomfortable position. But sitting shortens the hip flexor muscles, which can actually increase pain, says Genie Lieberman, the director of the physical rehabilitation institute at the Boca Raton Regional Hospital in Boca Raton, Florida.
To promote the full extension of the hips, Lieberman recommends lying facedown for up to 30 minutes, with small pillows placed under your shoulders for comfort. You can do this on your bed; turn your head to either side and rest it on your forearms for comfort. (You should not do this if you have lower-back problems.) In the beginning, it may be too painful to stay this way for more than a few seconds, but as you stretch the muscles it will get easier.

https://www.everydayhealth.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/treatment/hip-pain-home-remedies/

Understanding arthritis: The benefits of weight management

From msu.edu

Being overweight or obese can negatively affect your health, including putting extra stress and pressure on your joints. Learning to manage your weight can reduce the symptoms associated with arthritis.

Arthritis is a medical condition that most commonly affects tissue lining the joints. Symptoms include pain, aching, swelling and stiffness. Arthritis affects people of all ages and gender. It is estimated that 26 percent of all adults, over 78 million people, will have arthritis by the year 2040.
There are a number of ways to manage this disease including eating a healthy diet and making physical activity a priority. Weight management is another tool that can help treat and reduce the symptoms associated with arthritis.
Nearly 68 percent of Americans are overweight or obese. In 2015, the Behavioural Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRSS) reported that over 30 percent of Michigan adults are considered obese. According to the Arthritis Foundation losing weight, whether it’s 20, 50 or 100 pounds, can significantly improve your health and provide the following benefits:

• Reduce pressure on your joints. Studies have shown that by losing just one pound of weight, you can reduce up to four pounds of pressure on your knees.
• Ease pain and inflammation.
• Lower the risk of other diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke and certain types of cancers.
  • Helps make breathing easier and improve sleep. 

If you think your weight may be contributing to your arthritis symptoms, Michigan State University Extension recommends consulting with your healthcare provider. Your physician can assess and confirm your risk factors (age, activity level, health, body mass index and family history of weight-related health problems) and provide you with the help and resources to begin the process of losing weight through diet and exercise.

http://msue.anr.msu.edu/news/understanding_arthritis_the_benefits_of_weight_management