Joints

Yes, and because there’s no cure, arthritis disease prevention is the best option. The three big things you can do are to work out regularly and stay active; to maintain a healthy weight, and to prevent injuries to your joints. Slimming down can also help if you already suffer from arthritis. When you walk, your […] Read More

People are often surprised to learn that “arthritis” isn’t a diagnosis. It’s a general term that covers more than 100 diseases and related conditions. Knowing which type of arthritis you have is the first step in getting the right treatment and management plan for your situation. Some types of arthritis require prompt action. If you […] Read More

There are many things that help reduce pain, relieve stiffness and keep you moving. Your care may involve more than one kind of treatment. Your doctor may recommend medications, but there are many things you can do on your own to help manage pain and fatigue to move easier. Finding the right treatment takes time. […] Read More

Bone spurs are of two basic types. One is the kind that arises near a joint with osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease. In this situation, the cartilage has been worn through and the bone responds by growing extra bone at the margins of the joint surface. These “spurs” carry the formal name “osteophytes.” They are […] Read More

Bursitis and tendinitis result from irritation caused by injuring or overusing a joint. Bursitis affects a small sac that helps muscles move easily; tendinitis affects the tendons that attach muscle to bone. Treatments include anti-inflammatory drugs, heat or cold, and exercise. There are many more types of arthritis and related diseases including ankylosing spondylitis, juvenile […] Read More

Low back pain results from a back injury or certain types of arthritis. Back pain is one of the most common health problems in the United States. It can occur at any age in both men and women. Treatments include pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs, exercise, heat or cold joint protection, pacing your activities, and […] Read More

Gout results when the body is unable to get rid of a natural substance called uric acid. The uric acid forms needle-like crystals in the joint that cause severe pain and swelling. Gout usually affects big toes, knees, and wrists. More men than women have gout. Treatments include anti-inflammatory and special gout drugs, and sometimes […] Read More

Fibromyalgia affects muscles and their attachments to bone. It results in widespread pain and tender points, which are certain places on the body that are more sensitive to pain. It also may result in fatigue, disturbed sleep, stiffness, and sometimes psychological distress. Fibromyalgia affects mostly women. It is common and often misdiagnosed. Treatments include exercise, […] Read More

The most common type of arthritis is osteoarthritis. It affects many of us as we grow older. It is sometimes called degenerative arthritis because it involves the breakdown of cartilage and bones. This causes pain and stiffness. Osteoarthritis usually affects fingers and weight-bearing joints including knees, feet, hips, and back. It affects both men and […] Read More

Arthritis most often affects areas in or around joints. Joints are parts of the body where bones meet, such as your knee. The ends of the bones are covered by cartilage, a spongy material that acts as a shock absorber to keep bones from rubbing together. The joint is enclosed in a capsule called the […] Read More