ARTHRITIS
Pain, Stiffness, Swelling? What Could it Be?
Pain, Stiffness, Swelling?
What Could it Be?
Who Gets
osteoarthritis?
More info
What Is
osteoarthritis
More info
When to See
Your Doctor or
Rheumatologist
More info
Right-Track
Treatment
More info
Top
Lifestyle Tips
More info
Main Menu
×
What Is Osteoarthritis?
Repeated movements of everyday life wear down the cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones.
Hips, knees, lower back, neck and spine as well as smaller joints in fingers and big toes are affected.
×
Who Gets Osteoarthritis?
You’re more likely to get osteoarthritis in your middle and later years
You’re more likely to get osteoarthritis if you:
Are overweight
Often do repetitive movements
Had an injury early in life that affected one or more joints
×
When to See Your
Doctor or Rheumatologist
See your doctor early. Arthritis can’t be reversed, but there are treatments to ease pain and increase or maintain mobility.
Your doctor may also suggest lifestyle changes that could make everyday living easier for you.
Tests like X-rays can show any damage and help guide your care plan.
×
Right-Track Treatment
Keep moving, but choose low-impact activities like walking, yoga and tai chi.
Aspirin and ibuprofen can reduce pain and swelling. Talk to your doctor about dosage and whether you need stronger therapies like corticosteroids.
If stiffness or pain is severe, a brace or cane may help.
×
Top Lifestyle Tips
Keep mobile with low-impact exercise.
Ease stress on weight-bearing joints by losing weight.
Supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin may ease the pain, but check with your doctor before taking them.
Work with a physical therapist on exercises to improve range of motion, flexibility and muscle strength.
Try ice and/or heat to soothe achy joints.
