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ARTHRITIS TREATMENTArthritis treatment has come a long way. With new and better technology arthritis treatment is very effective. Arthritis treatment includes the following:- Medication Medication for arthritis treatment comes under the following categories- - COX-2 specific inhibitors - Traditional non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs (NSAID) - Over the counter pain medications - Steroids - Disease modifying anti rheumatic drugs (DMARD) - Biological response modifiers Dietary changes The diet which you eat has an important role in arthritis treatment. Some of the recommendations are- - Eat a variety of foods - Include fruits, grains and vegetables in your diet - Control fat and cholesterol intake - Eat only moderate amounts of sugar - Maintain a healthy weight - Use salt in moderation and limit your sodium intake - Drink alcohol in moderation. - Take the recommended daily requirements of vitamins & minerals including calcium Exercise Exercise is an important part of arthritis treatment. You must consult with your doctor or physical therapist for an exercise program that fits your needs. The three major types of exercises that should be included in your program are, range of motion exercises, endurance exercises and strengthening exercises. At all times you must ensure to get recommendations from your doctor, to do these exercises under the supervision of qualified physical therapists. Begin the exercises slowly and progress gradually, try applying heat before you begin and cold packs after you are done, stop if the exercises hurt and get your doctors advice. Surgery In certain cases your doctor may recommend surgery. It has many benefits (improved movement, pain relief and improved alignment of joints), but it maybe risky also (if there are already existing health problems and if you are over weight, also blood clots may develop). The different types of surgery in arthritis treatment are- • Arhtrodesis (.The surgical fixation of a joint, ultimately resulting in bone fusion. Basically, the procedure is artificially induced ankylosis performed to relieve pain or provide support in a diseased or injured joint). • Arthroplasty (The creation of an artificial joint. The surgical restoration of the integrity and functional power of a joint). • Arthroscopy Examination of the interior of a joint, such as the knee, using a type of endoscope that is inserted into the joint through a small incision.) • Osteotomy ( Surgical division or sectioning of bone) • Synovectomy (Excision of part or all of the synovial membrane of a joint.) Physical therapy Your doctor may recommend physical therapy to help reduce pain, restore mobility, increase functioning, improve strength and flexibility, and prevent any unnecessary disability. It is essential that you consult a qualified physical therapist only. Occupational therapy Sometimes arthritis symptoms are severe enough to make even everyday activities difficult. Occupational therapists teach ways to conserve energy and prevent stress on joints when performing activities of daily living (ADLs) such as eating, bathing, dressing, and using the bathroom. Occupational therapy helps people of all ages make the most of their abilities and function as independently as possible in spite of physical limitations. Alternative arthritis treatment Some complementary therapies seem to offer significant relief from chronic pain with very few side effects, and therefore may be useful for arthritis treatment. How ever you must consult with your doctor before you go ahead with any alternative arthritis treatment. Arthritis treatment can include all of the above either singly or in different combinations. For the most effective treatment consult your doctor and follow his guidance. |
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