Treatment of arthritis and arthrosis at home: doctors’ tips

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Treatment of arthritis and arthrosis at home: doctors’ tips

Section 1: understanding of arthritis and arthrosis: key differences and similarities

Arthritis and arthrosis, although often mentioned together, are different diseases that affect the joints. Understanding their key differences and similarities is critical of choosing an effective home treatment strategy.

  • Arthritis: joint inflammation. Arthritis is a general term denoting inflammation of one or more joints. There are more than 100 different types of arthritis, each of which has its own cause and features. General symptoms include joint pain, stiffness, swelling, redness and limitation of mobility.

    • Rheumatoid arthritis (RA): Autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks its own joint tissue, causing chronic inflammation. RA usually affects symmetrical joints (for example, both wrists or both knees).

    • Gout: The type of arthritis caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints, which leads to sudden, intense attacks of pain, edema and redness, most often in the thumb of the leg.

    • Septic arthritis: Joint infection caused by bacteria, viruses or fungi. Requires immediate medical intervention.

    • Ankylosing spondylitis: An inflammatory disease, which mainly affects the spine, causing stiffness and pain.

  • Arthrosis (osteoarthritis): degeneration of the articular cartilage. Arthrosis, also known as osteoarthritis, is the most common type of arthritis. It is characterized by the gradual destruction of the cartilage, which covers the ends of the bones in the joint. The cartilage acts as a shock absorber and provides smooth sliding of the bones relative to each other. When the cartilage is destroyed, the bones begin to rub against each other, causing pain, stiffness and limitation of mobility.

    • Causes of arthrosis: Arthrosis develops over time, often as a result of joint wear. Other risk factors include age, genetic predisposition, overweight, joint injuries and repeating movements.

    • Symptoms of arthrosis: Pain, stiffness, swelling, crunch or creak in the joint, limitation of mobility. Symptoms usually worsen after physical activity or long -term immobility.

  • Similarities between arthritis and arthrosis:

    • Joint pain: General symptom of both diseases.
    • Joints of joints: Especially in the morning or after periods of inaction.
    • Mobility restriction: Difficulty in performing everyday actions.
    • Influence on the quality of life: Both diseases can significantly reduce the quality of life, limiting the ability of a person to work, play sports and perform other important actions.

  • Key differences between arthritis and arthrosis:

    • Cause: Arthritis is caused by inflammation, while arthrosis is caused by the destruction of cartilage.
    • Development mechanism: Arthritis can be caused by autoimmune reactions, infections or other factors, while arthrosis usually develops over time due to wear.
    • Inflammation: Inflammation is the main characteristic of arthritis, while with arthrosis, inflammation is usually a secondary process.
    • Age of the beginning: Arthritis can begin at any age, while arthrosis is more common in older people.
    • The nature of the pain: Arthritis pain is usually constant and can be accompanied by other symptoms such as fatigue and fever. The pain in arthrosis is usually enhanced after physical activity and decreases at rest.

Section 2: Diagnostics of arthritis and arthrosis: when to see a doctor

It is important to consult a doctor to diagnose arthritis or arthrosis in order to receive appropriate treatment and prevent further damage to the joints.

  • When to see a doctor:

    • Severe joint pain: Pain that does not pass after several days of home treatment.
    • Edema and redness of the joint: Signs of inflammation.
    • Joint of the joint: Especially in the morning or after periods of inaction.
    • Restriction of joint mobility: Difficulty in performing everyday actions.
    • Symptoms affecting the quality of life: If pain and other symptoms prevent you from working, sleeping or doing everyday business.
    • Other symptoms: Fever, fatigue, skin rash (can be signs of certain types of arthritis).

  • Diagnostic methods:

    • Physical examination: The doctor will examine the joints, appreciate their mobility and check the presence of edema, redness and soreness.
    • Blood tests: Can be used to identify signs of inflammation, autoantiber (for rheumatoid arthritis) or increased uric acid level (with gout).
    • X-rays: It helps to visualize bones and joints to identify signs of cartilage damage, bone spurs or other changes characteristic of arthrosis.
    • MRI (magnetic resonance imaging): It provides more detailed images of soft tissues, such as cartilage, ligaments and tendons, and can be used to identify early signs of arthritis or arthrosis.
    • Arthrocentesis (joint puncture): The doctor introduces the needle into the joint to take a sample of synovial fluid for analysis. This can help determine the cause of inflammation and exclude the infection.

Section 3: Home methods of treating arthritis and arthrosis: relief of pain and inflammation

Home treatment methods can help relieve pain, reduce inflammation and improve joint function for arthritis and arthrosis. It is important to remember that home treatment methods do not replace medical care, but can be a useful addition to it.

  • Non -drug treatment methods:

    • Ice and warmth:

      • Ice: Apply ice to the affected joint for 15-20 minutes several times a day, especially after physical activity or with exacerbation of pain. Ice helps reduce inflammation and swelling. Be sure to wrap the ice with a towel so as not to damage the skin.
      • Warm: Apply heat to the affected joint for 20-30 minutes several times a day, especially in the morning or before physical activity. Heat helps to relax muscles and reduce stiffness. You can use warm compresses, heating pads or warm baths.

    • Exercise: Regular physical exercises can help strengthen the muscles around the joints, improve their mobility and reduce pain. It is important to choose exercises that do not overload the joints.

      • Low load exercises: Walking, swimming, cycling and aquaerobik.
      • Exercises for stretching: Help improve flexibility and reduce stiffness.
      • Power exercises: Help strengthen the muscles around the joints.

    • Physiotherapy: The physiotherapist can develop an individual program of exercises and other treatment methods to help you cope with pain and improve the joint function.

    • Ergotherapy: An ergotherapist can teach you how to perform everyday tasks that do not overload the joints. They can also recommend auxiliary devices, such as canes, orthoses or special devices for the kitchen.

    • Weight loss: Excessive weight has an additional load on the joints, especially on the knees and hips. Weight reduction can help reduce pain and improve the function of the joints.

    • Rest: Let the amazed joint rest when it is necessary. Avoid actions that exacerbate the pain.

    • Using auxiliary devices: A cane, crutches, orthosis or other auxiliary devices can help reduce the load on the joints and relieve pain.

    • Acupuncture: Some studies show that acupuncture can help relieve pain in arthritis and arthrosis.

    • Massage: Massage can help relax muscles, reduce pain and improve blood circulation in the affected area.

    • Transcanated electrical nervous stimulation (Tens): Tens uses small electrical impulses to stimulate nerves and block pain signals.

  • Medication methods of treatment (over -the -counter drugs):

    • Analgesic (analgesics):

      • Paracetamol: It can help relieve pain, but does not have an anti -inflammatory effect.
      • Nonsteroidal anti -inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Ibuprofen, Drings and Diclofenac can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation. However, NSAIDs can cause side effects, such as stomach disorder, heartburn and increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. Consult a doctor before using NSAIDs, especially if you have any other diseases.

    • Local funds:

      • Creams and gels with NSAIDs: They can help relieve pain and inflammation in a particular joint.
      • Creams and gels with capsaicin: Capsaicin is a substance contained in chili pepper. It can help reduce pain by blocking the transmission of pain signals.
      • Creams and gels with menthol: Mentol has a cooling effect and can help relieve pain.

    • Biologically active additives (dietary supplements):

      • Glucosamine and chondroitin: These substances are cartilage components. Some studies show that they can help reduce pain and improve joint function with arthrosis, but the evidence is still limited.
      • Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce pain in arthritis. Contained in fish oil, linen seed and walnuts.
      • Turmeric: Kurkumin, the active ingredient of turmeric, has anti -inflammatory properties and can help reduce pain in arthritis.
      • Vitamin D: Vitamin D is important for the health of bones and joints. The disadvantage of vitamin D can aggravate the symptoms of arthritis.

Section 4: Diet and nutrition for arthritis and arthrosis: what is there and what to avoid

Diet and nutrition play an important role in managing the symptoms of arthritis and arthrosis. Proper nutrition can help reduce inflammation, strengthen bones and joints and maintain healthy weight.

  • Anti -inflammatory diet:

    • Fundamentals: Focus on the use of whole, unprocessed products, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grain products, low -fat protein and healthy fats.

    • Products that should be included in the diet:

      • Fat fish: Salmon, tuna, sardines, mackerels are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
      • Fruits and vegetables: Berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries), cherry, spinach, broccoli, bell pepper are rich in antioxidants that help protect the cells from damage and reduce inflammation.
      • Olive oil: Contains olekantal, a substance with anti -inflammatory properties similar to ibuprofen.
      • Nuts and seeds: Almonds, walnuts, flax seeds, chia seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber and other nutrients.
      • Whole grain products: Oatmeal, brown rice, cinema – rich in fiber, which helps to maintain healthy weight and reduce inflammation.
      • Legumes: Beans, lentils, peas – rich in protein, fiber and other nutrients.
      • Herbs and spices: Turmeric, ginger, garlic – have anti -inflammatory properties.

    • Products that should be avoided or limited:

      • Processed products: Chips, cookies, sweets, fast food-contain a lot of sugar, trans fats and other harmful ingredients that can aggravate inflammation.
      • Red meat: Contains arachidonic acid that can contribute to inflammation.
      • Dairy products: Some people with arthritis may experience a deterioration in symptoms after drinking dairy products.
      • Alcohol: It can aggravate inflammation and interact with some drugs.
      • Sahar: High sugar consumption can aggravate inflammation and contribute to weight gain.
      • Gluten: Some people with arthritis may improve symptoms after the exclusion of gluten from their diet.

  • Maintaining a healthy weight:

    • Excessive weight has an additional load on the joints, especially on the knees and hips. Maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce pain and improve joint function.
    • Focus on the use of a balanced diet and regular physical exercises.

  • The use of enough water:

    • Water is necessary for joint health. It helps to lubricate the joints and maintain their elasticity.
    • Try to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day.

Section 5: Stress management for arthritis and arthrosis: influence on pain and inflammation

Stress can aggravate the symptoms of arthritis and arthrosis. When we experience stress, our body releases stress hormones, such as cortisol, which can contribute to inflammation and pain.

  • Stress management methods:

    • Meditation: Meditation can help calm the mind and reduce stress.
    • Yoga: Yoga combines physical exercises, breathing techniques and meditation, which can help reduce stress and improve flexibility.
    • Respiratory exercises: Deep breathing exercises can help relax the body and mind.
    • Natural walks: Conducting time in nature can help reduce stress and improve mood.
    • Classes of your favorite hobby: Classes of your favorite hobby can help to distract from stress and cheer up.
    • Communication with friends and family: Support for friends and family can help cope with stress.
    • Psychotherapy: The psychotherapist can help you develop stress management skills and cope with emotional problems associated with arthritis and arthrosis.

Section 6: Sleep and arthritis: how to improve sleep quality

Pain and stiffness in the joints may make it difficult to fall asleep and maintaining sleep. The lack of sleep can aggravate pain and inflammation, creating a vicious circle.

  • Tips for improving sleep quality:

    • Support the regular sleep mode: Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on the weekend.
    • Create a relaxing atmosphere in the bedroom: Make sure your bedroom is dark, quiet and cool.
    • Avoid caffeine and alcohol before bedtime: Caffeine and alcohol can disrupt sleep.
    • Do relaxing things before going to bed: Take a warm bath, read a book or listen to music.
    • Use a convenient mattress and pillow: Make sure your mattress and pillow provide sufficient support for your joints.
    • Consult a doctor if you have sleep problems: If you have problems with sleep, consult a doctor to exclude other reasons such as apnea in a dream.

Section 7: Alternative methods for the treatment of arthritis and arthrosis: what the research says

Some people with arthritis and arthrosis turn to alternative treatment methods to relieve pain and improve joint function. It is important to remember that the effectiveness of some alternative treatment methods has not been proven by scientific research.

  • Alternative treatment methods:

    • Acupuncture: Some studies show that acupuncture can help relieve pain in arthritis and arthrosis.
    • Massage: Massage can help relax muscles, reduce pain and improve blood circulation in the affected area.
    • Tai-you: Tai-chi is a type of exercise that combines slow, smooth movements, breathing and meditation. Some studies show that Tai-Chi can help improve the joint function and reduce arthritis pain.
    • Yoga: Yoga combines physical exercises, breathing techniques and meditation, which can help reduce stress and improve flexibility.
    • Plant remedies: Some plant remedies, such as ginger, turmeric and boswellia, have anti -inflammatory properties and can help reduce pain in arthritis. However, before using herbal products, it is necessary to consult a doctor, as they can interact with other drugs.

Section 8: Prevention of arthritis and arthrosis: what can be done to protect the joints

Although it is not always possible to prevent arthritis and arthrosis, there are steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of developing these diseases and protect your joints.

  • Prevention tips:

    • Maintain healthy weight: Excessive weight has an additional load on the joints, especially on the knees and hips.
    • Regularly engage in physical exercises: Physical exercises help strengthen the muscles around the joints and improve their mobility.
    • Avoid joint injuries: Use the right technique when playing sports and working to avoid joint injuries.
    • Support for the correct posture: Proper posture helps reduce the load on the joints.
    • Avoid repeating movements: Repeating movements can overload the joints. If you work by performing repeated movements, take breaks and change your body position.
    • Eat a healthy diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains can help protect the joints.
    • Quit smoking: Smoking can aggravate inflammation and accelerate the destruction of cartilage.

Section 9: Arthritis and arthrosis in the elderly: Features of treatment and care

Arthritis and arthrosis are often found in older people. Treatment and care for elderly people with arthritis and arthrosis have their own characteristics.

  • Features of treatment:

    • Medication: In older people, side effects of drugs are more common. Therefore, it is important to carefully select medicines and dosage.
    • Physiotherapy: Physiotherapy can help older people maintain mobility and joint strength.
    • Ergotherapy: Ergotherapy can help older people adapt their environment and perform everyday tasks.
    • Auxiliary devices: Auxiliary devices, such as canes, crutches and walkers, can help older people remain independent.

  • Features of care:

    • Comfort ensuring: It is important to provide an elderly person with a comfortable atmosphere in order to reduce pain and stress.
    • Help in the implementation of everyday tasks: Older people with arthritis and arthrosis may need help in performing everyday tasks, such as dressing, bathing and cooking.
    • Support and communication: It is important to provide an elderly person with support and communication in order to reduce the feeling of isolation and depression.
    • Regular visits to the doctor: Older people with arthritis and arthrosis need to regularly visit a doctor in order to control their condition and adjust the treatment.

Section 10: Life with arthritis and arthrosis: how to adapt and maintain activity

Living with arthritis and arthrosis can be difficult, but you can adapt and maintain activity.

  • Adaptation tips:

    • Take your diagnosis: Take your diagnosis and admit that you may need to change your lifestyle.
    • Learn more about your disease: The more you know about your disease, the better you can manage it.
    • Develop a treatment plan: Work with your doctor to develop a treatment plan that is right for you.
    • Join the support group: Communication with other people living with arthritis and arthrosis can be useful.
    • Be patient: Management of arthritis and arthrosis requires time and patience.
    • Keep a positive attitude: Keep a positive attitude and focus on what you can do.

  • Activity conservation tips:

    • Continue to do your favorite business: Find the ways to continue to engage in your favorite business, even if you have to change them a little.
    • Be active physically: Regular physical exercises can help maintain the strength and mobility of the joints.
    • Do not be afraid to ask for help: Do not be afraid to ask for help from friends, family or colleagues when you need it.
    • Listen to your body: Do not overdo it and let yourself relax when necessary.
    • Find the ways to cope with stress: Stress can aggravate the symptoms of arthritis and arthrosis.
    • Celebrate your success: Celebrate your successes, no matter how small they may be.

Section 11: Questions and answers about arthritis and arthrosis: answers to common questions

  • Question: Can I cure arthritis or arthrosis?

    • Answer: Currently, there is no medicine for arthritis or arthrosis, but there are treatment methods that can help relieve pain, reduce inflammation and improve joint function.

  • Question: What types of exercises are best suited for people with arthritis and arthrosis?

    • Answer: Low load exercises, such as walking, swimming, cycling and aquaerobic, are usually well suited for people with arthritis and arthrosis. It is important to choose exercises that do not overload the joints.

  • Question: What products should be avoided with arthritis and arthrosis?

    • Answer: Avoid or limit the use of processed products, red meat, dairy products, alcohol, sugar and gluten (for some people).

  • Question: Can additives help with arthritis and arthrosis?

    • Answer: Some additives, such as glucosamine, chondroitin, omega-3 fatty acids and turmeric, can help reduce pain and improve joint function with arthrosis, but the evidence is still limited. Before using additives, you need to consult a doctor.

  • Question: How to cope with pain with arthritis and arthrosis?

    • Answer: There are many ways to cope with pain with arthritis and arthrosis, including drug treatment, physiotherapy, ergotherapy, alternative methods of treatment and a change in lifestyle.

  • Question: How to find out when I need to see a doctor about arthritis and arthrosis?

    • Answer: Consult a doctor if you have severe joint pain, edema, redness, stiffness or limitation of mobility. Also consult a doctor if the symptoms of arthritis or arthrosis affect your quality of life.

Section 12: Resources for people with arthritis and arthrosis: where to find information and support

  • Medical organizations:

    • Association of Rheumatologists of Russia: Provides information on the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of rheumatic diseases.
    • World Health Organization (WHO): Provides information about arthritis and arthrosis as a global healthcare problem.

  • Online resources:

    • MedlinePlus: Provides health information from the US National Medical Library.
    • Mayo Clinic: Provides health information from Mayo Clinic.
    • WebMD: Provides health information from WebMD.

  • Support groups:

    • Local support groups: Many hospitals and medical centers offer support groups for people with arthritis and arthrosis.
    • Online support groups: There are online support groups where people with arthritis and arthrosis can communicate and share experience.

  • Social media:

    • Facebook: There are Facebook groups for people with arthritis and arthrosis, where they can communicate and share information.

  • Books and Articles:

    • There are many books and articles about arthritis and arthrosis. Contact your doctor or librarian for recommendations.

Section 13: Legal and financial aspects of arthritis and arthrosis: rights and opportunities

  • Disability: In some cases, arthritis and arthrosis can lead to disability. If you cannot work due to arthritis or arthrosis, you can have the right to receive disability benefits.

  • Medical insurance: Make sure that you have medical insurance that covers the treatment of arthritis and arthrosis.

  • Care help: If you need care help, you can have the right to receive state assistance.

  • Legal assistance: If you have questions about your rights, you can apply for legal assistance.

Section 14: Prospects for research of arthritis and arthrosis: new methods of treatment and hopes for the future

Studies of arthritis and arthrosis continue, and scientists are developing new methods of treatment and hopes for the future.

  • Promising areas of research:

    • Biological drugs: Biological drugs are drugs that affect the immune system to reduce inflammation for arthritis.
    • Gene therapy: Gene therapy is a treatment method that uses genes to change cells to reduce inflammation and restore damaged cartilage.
    • Regenerative medicine: Regenerative medicine is a treatment method that uses cells and tissues to restore damaged cartilage.
    • New medications: Scientists are developing new drugs for the treatment of arthritis and arthrosis, which are more effective and have less side effects.

Section 15: Dictionary of terms associated with arthritis and arthrosis

  • Arthritis: Inflammation of one or more joints.
  • Arthrosis (osteoarthritis): Degenerative joint disease, characterized by the destruction of cartilage.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis (RA): Autoimmune disease causing chronic joint inflammation.
  • Gout: The type of arthritis caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints.
  • Ankylosing spondylitis: An inflammatory disease, which mainly affects the spine.
  • Cartilage: The fabric that covers the ends of the bones in the joint and provides smooth sliding.
  • Synovial fluid: Fluid that lubricates the joints.
  • Inflammation: The body reaction to damage or infection.
  • Pain: An unpleasant sensation caused by damage or irritation of nerves.
  • STATION: Restriction of joint mobility.
  • Edema: The swelling of the joint caused by the accumulation of fluid.
  • Diagnosis: The process of determining the cause of the disease.
  • Treatment: The process of alleviating symptoms and improving joint function.
  • Prevention: Measures aimed at preventing the development of the disease.
  • Physiotherapy: Treatment using physical exercises and other methods such as heat, cold and ultrasound.
  • Ergotherapy: Treatment aimed at helping people with disabilities to carry out everyday tasks.
  • Alternative treatment methods: Methods of treatment that are not part of standard medical practice.
  • Medication: Treatment with drugs.
  • Surgical treatment: Treatment using surgical operations.
  • Disability: Limiting the ability to perform everyday tasks.

This detailed article provides comprehensive information on managing arthritis and arthrosis at home. It covers the differences between the conditions, diagnosis, home treatments, diet, stress management, sleep, alternative therapies, prevention, considerations for elderly individuals, coping strategies, common questions, resources, legal and financial aspects, research perspectives, and a glossary of terms. The information is presented in a structured and accessible manner, offering practical advice and insights for readers seeking to manage their condition effectively. It’s also optimized for search engines with the inclusion of relevant keywords and phrases. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized medical advice and treatment plans.

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