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Need to Know

Understanding Arthritis – A Helpful Guide for Seniors in the NYC, Westchester, Long Island and New Jersey Areas

Arthritis is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide, particularly as they age. While many associate arthritis with joint pain, it’s a complex group of over 100 conditions that cause inflammation, pain, and stiffness in the joints. Understanding the types and symptoms of arthritis can help individuals manage the condition more effectively and improve their quality of life.

Types of Arthritis

1. Osteoarthritis (OA): This is the most common form of arthritis, often referred to as “wear-and-tear” arthritis. It occurs when the cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones wears down over time, leading to pain and stiffness. OA typically affects the knees, hips, and hands.

2. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): RA is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints. This can cause inflammation, pain, and even joint deformity over time. RA often affects smaller joints, like those in the hands and feet, and can occur at any age.

3. Psoriatic Arthritis: This form of arthritis affects some people with psoriasis, an inflammatory skin condition. It can lead to joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, particularly in the fingers and toes.

4. Gout: Gout is caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to sudden, severe pain, often in the big toe. It’s usually triggered by certain foods, alcohol, or dehydration.

Common Symptoms

· Joint pain and stiffness: A primary symptom that worsens with activity or prolonged use.

· Swelling and tenderness: Affected joints may become swollen and tender to the touch.

· Reduced range of motion: Arthritis can make it difficult to move joints fully.

Managing Arthritis

While there is no cure for arthritis, several treatments and lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms:

·Medications: Pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) can help control symptoms and prevent joint damage.

· Physical Therapy: Exercise and stretching can improve mobility, strengthen muscles around joints, and reduce pain.

· Lifestyle Changes: Maintaining a healthy weight, eating an anti-inflammatory diet, and practicing low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling can alleviate arthritis symptoms.

· Assistive Devices: Braces, canes, or special tools can help reduce stress on joints and make daily tasks easier.

Understanding arthritis is the first step toward managing it effectively. By recognizing symptoms and working with healthcare providers, individuals with arthritis can take control of their condition and improve their quality of life. Early intervention, the right treatment plan, and healthy lifestyle changes can make a significant difference in coping with arthritis over the long term.

About Alvita Care

Alvita Care is a licensed home care services agency serving New York City, Long Island, Westchester and New Jersey. We have earned The Gold Seal of Approval from the Joint Commission and serve as a trusted provider of home care and private duty nursing services, dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for seniors and individuals who require additional assistance. Alvita Care is the preferred provider of bedside care at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Mount Sinai Hospital in NYC. At Alvita Care, we understand that each person has unique needs and our compassionate team tailors personalized care plans for each individual client.

Alvita Care offers a wide array of services, including Home Care, Private Duty Nursing, Bedside Care and Care Management. We also offer specialty care in the areas of Cancer, Alzheimer’s and Dementia, Parkinson’s and post-hospital care, to name a few. Our team of professional caregivers and nurses work hard to ensure that clients receive reliable and compassionate care, whether bedside in a facility or in the comfort of their own homes. We strive to promote a strong sense of well-being for seniors with the goal of helping them to retain their independence and dignity. Contact Alvita Care today if you’re interested in learning more about how we may be able to help you or a loved one in need of some additional support: alvitacare.com, 1-800-414-7611.

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