Tips to manage and prevent arthritis.

1. One in every 5
Americans will feel
the pain of arthritis
in their life.
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2. There are 4 types
of arthritis:
 Osteoarthritis – this is
the most common type
 Rheumatoid arthritis
 Post-traumatic arthritis
 Avascular necrosis or
osteonecrosis
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3. Giving up activity
due to arthritis pain
can actually make
the problem worse.
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4. Movement and
regular physical
activity keeps joints
lubricated and
lessens the pain.
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5. Medications
also can help.
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6. Acetaminophen –
this is good for mild
arthritis, it does not
require a
prescription, and has
few side effects.
However, it won’t
reduce swelling.
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7. Anti-inflammatories
(NSAIDs) relieve
both pain and
swelling of the
joints. Some are
available without a
prescription, such
as aspirin and
ibuprofen.
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8. Methotrexate and
TNF Blockers are
prescription
medications used
for patients with
severe rheumatoid
arthritis who do not
respond to NSAIDs.
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9. TNF Blockers are
given by injection
or IV.
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10. Corticosteriods
(such as Cortisone)
can be given
topically in a cream
or ointment, orally
or by injection.
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11. Joint fluid
supplements, such
as glucosamine
and
chondroitin, are
found naturally in
healthy joints.
Some people report
that taking these
supplements can
help relieve pain and
stiffness, but there
are no studies
proving their
effectiveness.
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12. You can help
prevent arthritis by:
 Eating a well-balanced
diet
 Maintaining a healthy
weight
 Taking vitamin and
mineral supplements
 Exercising regularly –
movement of the
joints helps reduce
wear and tear
 Avoiding smoking
 Limiting alcohol
consumption
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