Arthritis Patients: Do You Need Surgery?
If you have recently been diagnosed with arthritis or if you suspect you have it, thoughts of surgery may automatically pop into your head. Yes, some patients must undergo surgery, but it is actually very rare. Despite the common belief, it is possible to treat and manage the symptoms of arthritis, such as joint pain, swelling, and difficulty moving, without surgery.
When is surgery considered an option?
Unbearable Pain. When the pain is so severe that over-the-counter pain relievers and prescription pain relievers do not work, surgery may be the last resort. Over time, our bodies get used to the pain relievers we ingest. Over time the Tylenol that once provided with you with relief may no longer do so. If and when that point arrives, speak to your doctor about prescribed medications. He or she will likely want to try those first before opting for surgery.
Joint damage. The elderly and those who let their arthritis go untreated are susceptible to joint damage. This includes deformities. For example, a patient with severe rheumatoid arthritis may have bent out of shape fingers. This not only looks different, but it is excruciating in terms of pain. Surgery can be used to correct these deformities and other severe joint damage.
What type of procedures may be performed?
Arthroscopy. This is a minimally invasive surgery and a great alternative to open surgery. A small incision is made in the skin. Then, a thin viewing instrument, known as an arthroscope is inserted. It’s the destination? The painful joint. Many surgeons use this procedure to diagnose a problem and decide on a course of treatment. It can also be used to perform small surgeries. It has many benefits, including less pain, lower costs, and less hospitalization. So, if you need surgery, offer an arthroscopy as a suggestion.
Arthrodesis. This surgery is very rare, as there is a high risk of complications. And, it results in a permanent disability. So, why is it even offered? It is the only hope of pain relief for some individuals. These individuals have a diseased joint that cannot be fixed in any other way. Pain and swelling are common and unmanageable. Arthrodesis involves fusing two bones into a joint. This prevents joint movement. For many, this is a last and only resort.
Joint replacement. Joint replacement surgeries are common with the shoulders, knees, and hips. With joint replacement surgeries, the ends of nearby bones are replaced. This results in new joint surfaces. It will take time and physical therapy, but most patients experience a reduction and pain and an increase in mobility. For the fingers and toes, joint replacement is less common. Typically, surgeons opt for the fusion of smaller joints, as opposed to total replacement.
What are the alternatives to arthritis-related surgery?
It depends. For starters, how severe is your arthritis? When were you diagnosed? The earlier osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are diagnosed, the easier it is to treat without surgery. Exercise is vital. Yes, it is difficult to move your joints, so exercise may seem like it is out of the question, but it is not. Start with low impact exercises or opt for water exercises or physical therapy. The more a joint is moved, the less stiffness you experience. This can later reduce the chance of deformities.
As for the pain, remember that surgery is only used as a last resort. First, try over-the-counter pain pills and cream or ask for stronger prescription medications. Heat also helps many. Soak in a warm bath daily or use a heating pad. Although there is little scientific proof to back these claims, many arthritis patients report long-term relief with continued use of natural remedies and supplements, including cayenne pepper, pineapples, ASU, and ginger.
Common Types of Arthritis and Treatment Options
Do you or someone you know suffer from arthritis? It is a common disease, you likely do. What type? Only a doctor can tell, but there are over 100 different types of arthritis. Despite this large number, they typically fall into two categories.
1 – Osteoarthritis
This disease is most commonly found in men and women over the age of 65. It is also known as degenerative arthritis. This name comes from the progression of the disease. It beings with cartilage breakdown. The cartilage covering the bones degenerates and wears away. Essentially, sufferers have exposed bones. These bones then rub against each other, causing severe pain and discomfort. Many also experience difficulty moving.
The most noticeable symptom of osteoarthritis is joint pain. Stiffness is common in the morning and after movement. All joints can be impacted by osteoarthritis, but the most common are the hips, feet, back, knees, and fingers. Those with arthritis problems in the hands and feet may find it difficult to walk without a limp and grasp otherwise easy objects.
As with most types of arthritis, there is not just one cause for osteoarthritis. There are many contributing factors. These include body weight, previous injuries, and genes. Although osteoarthritis typically affects the elderly, athletes who repeatedly use the same joints and suffer injury are at an increased risk. As for body weight, the joints and muscle surrounding them carry most of the body’s weight; more weight applies more pressure. Although rare, there are defects that can lead to osteoarthritis. These include a lack of protein that makes up cartilage and the poor fitting of bones and joints.
2 – Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis affects over one million people in the United States. It does not discriminate, as individuals of all ages are susceptible to the disease. In fact, there are three types of rheumatoid arthritis for juveniles alone. The cause? The immune system is supposed to protect our body, but in some cases, it does the exact opposite. With rheumatoid arthritis, it attacks the joint lining membrane.
The most noticeable symptom of rheumatoid arthritis is a pain. If untreated, other complications can arise. The most common is a disability. To prevent this from happening, all patients are urged to exercise their joints and muscles, even though it may be painful at first. Another common symptom of rheumatoid arthritis is inflammation. The swelling can be mild to severe. In most instances, this is what separates rheumatoid arthritis from other forms. Swelling and inflammation are likely, but it is much more prominent and debilitating.
Luckily, rheumatoid arthritis suffers rarely experience constant pain. The disease flares up from time to time. These flare-ups are triggered by joint overuse and certain foods. As for the cause, it is currently unknown. There are however many theories. One being genes.
3 – Fibromyalgia
Although not always classified as a form of arthritis, fibromyalgia is an arthritis-related condition. This disease affects over three million people in the United States. That number is actually higher, but some patients are misdiagnosed.
The most noticeable symptom of fibromyalgia is muscle pain. There are also tender spots in the muscle and body that are more susceptible to pain and pressure. Additional symptoms include headaches, bladder problems, difficulty thinking, fatigue, and sleep difficulty.
While researchers have yet to determine a connection, a good percentage of those who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis later develop fibromyalgia. It wasn’t bad enough that your joints hurt, but now the muscles in your body too? Additional causes may be related to prior injuries. Some studies have shown that those with previous injuries are more likely to develop the disease. Many experts believe the change in muscles, due to injury, can later lead to chronic pain and fibromyalgia.
Now that you are familiar with some of the most common types of arthritis, what comes next? If you or someone who you know suffers from arthritis, medical care is important. A proper diagnosis is important in developing the best treatment option. Low impact exercise can loosen the joints and strengthen the surrounding muscles. This not only eliminates joint stiffness, but it can later prevent disability and deformities.
Finally, some pain can be treated, but it will reoccur. Those suffering from arthritis need to learn how to manage their pain. This involves not focusing too much on it, eliminating stress, asking for help, getting a good night sleep, and learning how to calmly relax.
Are tomatoes bad for arthritis?
Best Vegetables for Arthritis | Arthritis Diet | Living With Arthritis…https://www.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/…diet/…/best-vegetables-for-arthritis.php
…https://www.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/arthritis-diet/best-foods-for-arthritis/best-vegetables-for-arthritis.phpEggplants, peppers, tomatoes and potatoes are all members of the nightshade family. These vegetables contain the chemical solanine, which some people claim aggravates arthritis pain and inflammation. … But if you find they trigger arthritis pain, don’t eat them, Larson suggests.Best Vegetables for Arthritis | Arthritis Diet | Living With Arthritis….https://www.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/…diet/…/best-vegetables-for-arthritis.phpSearch for: Are tomatoes bad for arthritis?
ARTHRITIS: Is Your Diet Causing It? [Or Making It Worse?]Is Chicken bad for arthritis?
Diet for Rheumatoid Arthritis | Anti Inflammatory Diet | Arthritis Diet…https://www.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/arthritis…/rheumatoid-arthritis-diet.php
…https://www.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/arthritis-diet/anti-inflammatory/rheumatoid-arthritis-diet.phpEating hamburgers, chicken or other meats that have been grilled or fried at high temperature can raise the amount of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) in the blood. Although no direct link between AGEs and arthritis has been identified, high levels of AGEs have been detected in people with inflammation.Diet for Rheumatoid Arthritis | Anti Inflammatory Diet | Arthritis Diet…https://www.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/arthritis…/rheumatoid-arthritis-diet.phpSearch for: Is Chicken bad for arthritis?
Is coffee bad for arthritis?
No Bones About It: Drinking Coffee May Increase Arthritis Risk…https://www.webmd.com/…/no-bones-about-drinking-coffee-may-increase-arthritis-risk
…https://www.webmd.com/arthritis/news/20000725/no-bones-about-drinking-coffee-may-increase-arthritis-riskNo Bones About It: Drinking Coffee May Increase Arthritis Risk. … Rheumatoid arthritis is inflammation of the lining of the joints in the body and can lead to deformity and disability. It occurs when the body’s immune system attacks the joints, although it is not known why. There is also no cure. Jul 25, 2000 No Bones About It: Drinking Coffee May Increase Arthritis Risk…https://www.webmd.com/…/no-bones-about-drinking-coffee-may-increase-arthritis-riskSearch for: Is coffee bad for arthritis?
Is lemon good for arthritis?
8 Foods That Fight Inflammation | Everyday Health…https://www.everydayhealth.com/hs/rheumatoid-arthritis…/foods-that-fight-inflammation…
…https://www.everydayhealth.com/hs/rheumatoid-arthritis-pictures/foods-that-fight-inflammation/Citrus foods, such as oranges, grapefruit, lemon, and limes, are rich in vitamin C. … Citrus fruits are also good sources of inflammation-fighting antioxidants, which are helpful for those with rheumatoid arthritis.8 Foods That Fight Inflammation | Everyday Health…https://www.everydayhealth.com/hs/rheumatoid-arthritis…/foods-that-fight-inflammation…Search for: Is lemon good for arthritis?
How can you slow down arthritis from progressing?
How to Prevent Progression of Arthritis – Verywell…https://www.verywellhealth.com/how-to-prevent-arthritis-progression-2549259
…https://www.verywellhealth.com/how-to-prevent-arthritis-progression-2549259Here are four simple fixes that may help.Lose Weight. Obesity is one of the most significant contributing factors to arthritis progression. … Modify Your Activities. The rule is simple: if you feel pain when doing an activity, it is not good. … Use Anti-Inflammatory Medications. … Use a Supportive Device.How to Prevent Progression of Arthritis – Verywell…https://www.verywellhealth.com/how-to-prevent-arthritis-progression-2549259Search for: How can you slow down arthritis from progressing?
How can I stop my arthritis getting worse?
5 Ways to Prevent Arthritis From Getting Worse | Newsmax.com…https://www.newsmax.com/t/#!health/article/653714/186
…https://www.newsmax.com/t/#!health/article/653714/1865 Ways to Prevent Arthritis From Getting WorseEarly Diagnosis Equals Better Prognosis. Patients are going to have a better chance of getting a good treatment program if they begin treatment early in the progression of the problem. … Keep Your Weight Down. … No Smoking. … Eat Right. … Avoid Injury. … 7 Foods that Will Make Arthritis Pain Worse.10 Best Supplements for Your Joints.Jul 6, 2015 5 Ways to Prevent Arthritis From Getting Worse | Newsmax.com…https://www.newsmax.com/t/#!health/article/653714/186Search for: How can I stop my arthritis getting worse?
How can I reduce arthritis inflammation?
Arthritis Inflammation Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments – WebMD…https://www.webmd.com/arthritis/arthritis-inflammation
….https://www.webmd.com/arthritis/arthritis-inflammationThe goals of treatment are to:Treat the underlying inflammatory disease and decrease inflammation. Relieve pain by medication, activity modification.Maintain joint movement, muscle strength and overall function through physical therapy and exercise. More items…•Nov 4, 2018 Arthritis Inflammation Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments – WebMD….https://www.webmd.com/arthritis/arthritis-inflammationSearch for: How can I reduce arthritis inflammation?
Is peanut butter good for arthritis?
Beyond Peanut Butter: Add These Tasty Spreads to Your Arthritis Dietblog.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/peanut-butter-spreads-arthritis-diet/
…http://blog.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/peanut-butter-spreads-arthritis-diet/Add these tasty spreads to your arthritis diet. Like peanut butter, other seed and nut spreads are high in protein and dietary fiber. … Creamy, rich cashew butter provides good-for you unsaturated fats and copper, which helps build connective tissue. And toasty walnut butter has lots of heart-healthy omega-3 fat. Apr 27, 2018 Beyond Peanut Butter: Add These Tasty Spreads to Your Arthritis Dietblog.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/peanut-butter-spreads-arthritis-diet/Search for: Is peanut butter good for arthritis?
Is orange juice good for arthritis?
Best Beverages for Arthritis | Arthritis Diet | Arthritis Foundation…https://www.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/…diet/…/best-beverages-for-arthritis.php
…https://www.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/arthritis-diet/best-foods-for-arthritis/best-beverages-for-arthritis.phpJuices. Orange, tomato, pineapple and carrot juices are all high in vitamin C, which means they have antioxidant properties, which can neutralize free radicals that lead to inflammation. Tart cherry juice has been shown to protect against gout flares and reduce osteoarthritis symptoms.Best Beverages for Arthritis | Arthritis Diet | Arthritis Foundation…https://www.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/…diet/…/best-beverages-for-arthritis.phpSearch for: Is orange juice good for arthritis?
What fruit is good for arthritis?
6 Food Choices to Help Ease Arthritis Pain – Living With Arthritisblog. arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/diet-foods-arthritis-pain/
…http://blog.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/diet-foods-arthritis-pain/But veggies are always a healthy choice. Try adding broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, kale or cauliflower to your salad or stir-fry. Fatty fish. Fatty fish like salmon, tuna, trout and mackerel are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help fight inflammation. Feb 18, 20166 Food Choices to Help Ease Arthritis Pain – Living With Arthritisblog.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/diet-foods-arthritis-pain/Search for: What fruit is good for arthritis?
What foods cure arthritis?
6 Food Choices to Help Ease Arthritis Pain – Living With Arthritisblog.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/diet-foods-arthritis-pain/
…http://blog.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/diet-foods-arthritis-pain/But growing evidence suggests that following a healthy diet and adding in specific foods and spices could help fight inflammation and joint pain.Broccoli, Brussels sprouts and cabbage. … Fatty fish. … Garlic. … Tart cherries. … Turmeric. … Vitamin C. Antioxidants in vitamin C may slow the progression of OA, research finds.Feb 18, 20166 Food Choices to Help Ease Arthritis Pain – Living With Arthritisblog.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/diet-foods-arthritis-pain/Search for: What foods cure arthritis?
Is rheumatoid arthritis deadly?
How Long Can a Person Live with Rheumatoid Arthritis?…https://www.emedicinehealth.com/ask_rheumatoid_arthritis_life…/article_em.htm
…https://www.emedicinehealth.com/ask_rheumatoid_arthritis_life_expectancy/article_em.htmRheumatoid arthritis is not fatal, but complications of the disease shorten life span by a few years in some individuals. … The most common causes of premature death in people with rheumatoid arthritis are infection, vasculitis, and poor nutrition. Apr 25, 2018 How Long Can a Person Live with Rheumatoid Arthritis?…https://www.emedicinehealth.com/ask_rheumatoid_arthritis_life…/article_em.htmSearch for: Is rheumatoid arthritis deadly?
Is rheumatoid arthritis serious?
10 Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore – WebMD…https://www.webmd.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/ra-dont-ignore-symptoms
…https://www.webmd.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/ra-dont-ignore-symptomsRheumatoid arthritis can have many different symptoms. … But this disease causes inflammation in many body parts, so you may have symptoms that you don’t realize are related to RA. Some are signs of serious complications that put your organs, or even your life, at risk. Oct 3, 2018 10 Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore – WebMD…https://www.webmd.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/ra-dont-ignore-symptomsSearch for: Is rheumatoid arthritis serious?
How quickly does rheumatoid arthritis develop?
Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms : Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center…https://www.hopkinsarthritis.org/arthritis-info/rheumatoid-arthritis/ra-symptoms/
…https://www.hopkinsarthritis.org/arthritis-info/rheumatoid-arthritis/ra-symptoms/The typical case of rheumatoid arthritis begins insidiously, with the slow development of signs and symptoms over weeks to months. Often the patient first notices stiffness in one or more joints, usually accompanied by pain on movement and by tenderness in the joint.Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms : Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center…https://www.hopkinsarthritis.org/arthritis-info/rheumatoid-arthritis/ra-symptoms/Search for: How quickly does rheumatoid arthritis develop?
Is banana not good for arthritis?
Has eating bananas helped with my arthritis pain? | Arthritis …https://www.arthritisresearchuk.org/…/has-eating-bananas-helped-with-my-arthritis-pain….
…https://www.arthritisresearchuk.org/arthritis-information/q-and-a/diet/has-eating-bananas-helped-with-my-arthritis-pain.aspxA) Bananas are recommended as part of a healthy diet and for the vitamin B6 they contain (as well as lots of potassium). However, bananas are also discouraged by some websites as aggravating arthritis.Has eating bananas helped with my arthritis pain? | Arthritis …https://www.arthritisresearchuk.org/…/has-eating-bananas-helped-with-my-arthritis-pain….Search for: Is banana not good for arthritis?
🥑🥩🥚Keto Grocery List for Beginners 🥑🥩🥚Are eggs good for arthritis?
Peel An Egg Tricks For People With Rheumatoid Arthritis | Everyday …https://www.everydayhealth.com/…arthritis/…/hard-boiled-egg-hacks-people-with-arthrit…
…https://www.everydayhealth.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/diet/hard-boiled-egg-hacks-people-with-arthritis/Morning stiffness can be a struggle for people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), but that doesn’t have to interfere with having a healthy breakfast. One of the simplest ways to consistently eat a nutritious and hassle-free morning meal is to keep a batch of hard-boiled eggs at the ready. Jul 31, 2017 Peel An Egg Tricks For People With Rheumatoid Arthritis | Everyday …https://www.everydayhealth.com/…arthritis/…/hard-boiled-egg-hacks-people-with-arthrit…Search for: Are eggs good for arthritis?
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