Patients with arthritis are usually desperate to find relief. And while some people are fine with sort-term solutions, others want to change the course of their disease. Can arthritis be reversed, or do patients need to find ways to cope with their symptoms for life? Learn more in the article below.
You cannot reverse arthritis. However, there are plenty of therapies that can reduce your symptoms. There are also therapies that can improve joint function, giving the impression that your condition is revering. Read on to learn more about these treatments.
Drug therapies are the most common arthritis treatment. Of course, pain relievers can be a big help for arthritis patients. Prescription pain relievers are very common. Over-the-counter pain medicine is also helpful. These are not only useful for pain, but also for reducing swelling and inflammation. Some patients also use drugs called DMARDs (disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs). These can be helpful in slowing disease progression.
In addition to medication, other treatments can help you manage your arthritis. Physical therapy and occupational therapy can both help you deal with mobility and/or movement problems. If your arthritis is severe, then surgery might also be used. Your doctor will most likely combine drugs with other treatments in order to give you the best results.
Keeping a healthy lifestyle can also help you manage your arthritis. Exercise is very helpful for arthritis patients. Regular exercise can help you keep your muscle strength and joint function. This will reduce swelling and stiffness while also helping you mentally strong. In addition to exercise, a healthy lifestyle can also help you cope with your arthritis symptoms. Try to eat well, sleep well, and limit stress as much as you can.
So can arthritis be reversed? No, but it can be managed. Working with a good doctor will help you find the best ways to manage your arthritis symptoms long-term. Houston Rheumatology works with all different types of arthritis patients. To learn how we can help you, give us a call or schedule an appointment online.