Arthritis explained – What do you need to know?

When we hear the term “arthritis”, we often imagine an elderly individual, clutching their joints in pain. While it is true that arthritis is more common in older individuals, it is essential to note that it can affect people of all ages.

What is arthritis?

Arthritis is a broad term that refers to over 100 different conditions characterised by joint pain or joint disease.

It is a condition that affects the joints, the tissues which surround the joint, and other connective tissues.

The most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Osteoarthritis arthritis

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease that affects joint cartilage and underlying bone.

It most often affects the hands, knees, hips, or spine, leading to pain, stiffness and limited movement.

OA typically happens with age as the cartilage wears away but it can also result from joint injuries or obesity which puts extra stress on your joints.

Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis, on the other hand, is an autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the joints, causing inflammation that can lead to severe damage.

RA commonly affects the hands and feet and can potentially affect internal organs and systems.

You could have the disease for a short time, or symptoms might come and go.

The severity and duration can vary greatly from person to person.

Symptoms of arthritis

Arthritis symptoms can range from mild to severe and may come and go over time. They include:

• Joint pain, stiffness and swelling
• Decreased range of motion
• Redness around the affected joint
• Warmth around the affected joint

If you notice persistent symptoms, it is crucial to see a healthcare professional for evaluation and diagnosis.

Treatment for arthritis

While there is no cure for arthritis, a variety of treatments can help control symptoms and improve quality of life. Treatment plans often include a combination of medication, physical therapy and lifestyle changes.

• Medication – Over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs are often the first line of treatment for arthritis. For RA, stronger prescription medications can help slow the progression of the disease.
• Physical therapy – Therapists can provide exercises to help keep your joints flexible and improve your range of motion.
• Lifestyle changes – Healthy eating, regular exercise, adequate sleep and stress management techniques have been shown to help manage symptoms and improve overall health.
• Surgery – In severe cases, joint replacement or joint surgeries might be necessary when other treatments have failed to control the symptoms.

Support available for our clients

Managing arthritis is not just about addressing the symptoms, it is about enhancing the quality of life for our clients despite the condition. This is where a personalised care plan comes into play.

At Nexus Care, we provide personalised care plans for our clients, which are tailored to individual needs to help manage the course of their arthritis.

Care plans can include a number of factors, such as:

• Medical history
• Medications
• Expected aims and outcomes of the care provided
• Strategies for managing pain and fatigue
• Lifestyle modifications

Our care plans are dynamic and flexible and adapt to our client’s changing needs and progress.

Arthritis can be a challenging condition to live with, but with the right information and care plan, you can manage the symptoms and lead a fulfilling life.

Each person’s experience with arthritis is unique, and what works for one person might not work for another.

At Nexus Care Services, we provide tailored care plans to support your individual needs. If you or a loved one needs support, contact us today at 0121 308 2906.