Arthritis is a common term we hear, but it’s actually not just one disease. There are more than 100 different types of arthritis and related conditions.
October 12th, 2017 is World Arthritis Day. A day to raise awareness and talk about the importance of early diagnosis.
The most common type of arthritis is osteoarthritis, where the cartilage can wear down particularly if someone puts a lot of miles on the joints or had injuries over time.
GBMC Orthopedic Surgeon, Dr. JamieJohnston, says some of the early symptoms include pain and swelling of the joints, pain when walking up and down the stairs, or walking a long distance.
But there are treatments available to help ease the pain.
“The best treatments for osteoarthritis are weight-loss, anti-inflammatory, which would include things like Ibuprofen or Aleve or Tylenol. Physical therapy which can work on strengthening the muscles around the joint and decrease the swelling."
GBMC will be holding a free ‘Arthritis of the Knee and Hip’ discussion on October 24th at GBMC.
Its part of GBMC’s “Time for Me!” lecture series.
For more information click here.
