Arthritis 101: Causes, Symptoms, and How to Support Yourself or a Loved One
September 4, 2025Understanding the Pain, Finding Relief, and Living Well
If you or someone you love has joint pain that just won’t go away, you’re not alone. Arthritis is one of the most common chronic conditions in the U.S., affecting people of all ages, not just seniors.
But arthritis isn’t just “getting older” or “feeling stiff.” It’s a real condition that can impact daily life, mobility, and emotional well-being. The good news? With the right care, support, and management plan, it’s possible to live well with arthritis.
What Is Arthritis?
“Arthritis” isn’t just one condition; it’s a broad term for more than 100 different joint disorders that cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in the body’s joints.
Some of the most common types include:
- Osteoarthritis – The most common form, caused by wear-and-tear on joints over time.
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) – An autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the joints.
- Psoriatic arthritis – Often linked with psoriasis, an inflammatory skin condition.
- Gout – A type of arthritis caused by uric acid buildup, often affecting the big toe.
- Juvenile arthritis – Affects children and teens under 16, causing inflammation and stiffness.
Each type has unique causes, symptoms, and treatments, but they all involve joint pain that affects daily life.
What Causes Arthritis?
Causes vary based on the type of arthritis, but general risk factors include:
- Aging and joint overuse
- Family history of arthritis
- Previous joint injuries
- Autoimmune disease (for RA or psoriatic arthritis)
- Obesity (which puts extra stress on joints)
- Infections or metabolic issues (such as in gout)
It’s important to talk to your provider if you’re experiencing ongoing joint pain. Early diagnosis can prevent further joint damage.
Common Symptoms to Watch For
Arthritis often begins gradually and worsens over time. You might notice:
- Joint pain, swelling, or stiffness (especially after rest)
- Reduced range of motion in one or more joints
- Warmth or redness around affected joints
- Fatigue or general malaise, especially in autoimmune types
- Symptoms that flare up and calm down unpredictably
If joint pain persists for more than a few weeks, it’s time to check in with your provider.
How to Support a Loved One with Arthritis
If someone you care about is living with arthritis, your support can make a big difference. Here's how:
- Be patient and listen. Some days will be harder than others.
- Encourage gentle activity. Movement helps reduce stiffness.
- Offer practical help. Tasks like opening jars or carrying groceries can be challenging during flare-ups.
- Learn about their condition. Understanding what they’re facing builds empathy.
- Go to appointments together. It shows support and helps keep track of care plans.
Managing Arthritis: Pain Relief and Long-Term Care
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, but with the right support, arthritis symptoms can often be effectively managed through a combination of medical and lifestyle strategies.
Medical Treatment Options:
- Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs like ibuprofen)
- DMARDs or biologics for autoimmune forms like RA
- Joint injections (corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid)
- Physical therapy to improve strength and flexibility
- Surgery or joint replacement (in advanced cases)
- At-Home and Lifestyle Support:
- Regular, gentle exercise (like walking, swimming, or yoga)
- Healthy weight management to reduce joint stress
- Warm baths or hot/cold therapy
- Joint-friendly assistive tools (like jar openers or braces)
- Rest and stress management, especially during flare-ups
Every person’s arthritis journey is different. The key is a care plan that fits your body and your lifestyle.
When to See a Provider
If you’re experiencing persistent joint pain, swelling, or stiffness, don’t wait. Early diagnosis and treatment can help slow disease progression and protect joint function.
Talk to your provider about:
- New or worsening symptoms
- How arthritis affects your daily life
- What medications or therapies may be right for you
You can start the conversation at any of our trusted St. Mary’s locations:
- Athens Internal Medicine Associates – Athens
- Community Internal Medicine of Athens – Athens
- Georgia Family Medicine – Watkinsville
- Good Samaritan Primary Care – Greater Greene County area
- Sacred Heart Primary Care – Greater Franklin County area
- St. Mary's Family Medicine – Bogart
- St. Mary’s Internal Medicine Associates – Watkinsville/Oconee
- St. Mary’s Internal Medicine Associates on Chase – North Athens/Jackson/Madison