Did you know that the term “arthritis” is not a disease but is used to refer to joint pain and joint disease? According to the Arthritis Foundation, there are more than 100 different types of arthritis and related conditions. Statistics also reveal that more than 50 million American adults and 300,000 children have some type of arthritis.

Arthritis is the leading cause of disability in America, but it is most common among women and older adults. The two most recognizable types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis causes cartilage — the firm, flexible connective tissue that covers the ends of bones where they form a joint — to degenerate, causing pain, stiffness and swelling. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that mistakenly attacks the joints and causes inflammation in the lining of the joints (synovium), pain and swelling around the joints.

People who have arthritis or a related condition have difficulty getting enough physical activity to improve their condition. According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), arthritis affects many working-age people’s ability to work, the type of work they can do and whether they can work part-time or full-time. Although there is no cure for more types of arthritis, it can be managed by:

• Assistive devices
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Regular physical activity and exercise
• Physical and occupational therapy
• Over-the-counter and prescribed nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines
• Over-the-counter and prescribed pain relievers
• Joint surgery or replacement

If you or a loved experiences any symptoms of arthritis, schedule an appointment with a primary care physician. Arthritis diagnosis begins with a physical exam, possible blood tests and imaging scans to help determine the type of arthritis. An arthritis specialist, or rheumatologist will normally oversee ongoing treatment. If treatment includes pain management medication, Carmichael’s Pharmacists can work with the patient and the prescribing doctor to ensure the exact prescription is prepared at our Compounding Pharmacy in Crowley.