Living with Arthritis: Managing Pain and Staying Active
May 5, 2025Categories: Healthy Living
Tags: Arthritis
Arthritis is one of the most common chronic conditions affecting adults, and yet, it can feel incredibly isolating. At St. Mary’s Health Care System, we understand that arthritis isn’t just about joint pain. It’s about maintaining your independence, your hobbies, and the life you love. Whether you’ve just been diagnosed or have been living with arthritis for years, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
What Is Arthritis?
Arthritis is not a single disease but a term covering more than 100 types of joint conditions. It affects people of all ages, though it’s more common as we age. The most common types include:
Osteoarthritis (OA)
Often called “wear-and-tear” arthritis, osteoarthritis happens when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones wears down over time. It usually affects weight-bearing joints like the knees, hips, and spine, as well as the hands.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the joints. This causes inflammation, swelling, and pain, and can eventually lead to joint damage if left untreated. RA often affects joints symmetrically (like both hands or both knees) and may also cause fatigue and other systemic symptoms.
Common Symptoms of Arthritis
While symptoms can vary by type, some of the most common signs of arthritis include:
- Joint pain, stiffness, or tenderness
- Swelling around the joints
- Decreased range of motion
- A feeling of warmth or redness over the affected joint
- Fatigue (especially with RA)
If joint pain is persistent or interfering with your daily life, it’s worth talking with a provider. The earlier arthritis is diagnosed, the better it can be managed.
Managing Arthritis: Treatment and Pain Relief
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution to arthritis, but many people find relief through a combination of treatments and lifestyle changes. Some options include:
- Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers (like acetaminophen or ibuprofen), prescription anti-inflammatories, or medications that modify the disease process in RA.
- Physical therapy: Working with a physical therapist can help strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and protect joints.
- Injections: Corticosteroid injections may reduce inflammation and pain in specific joints.
- Surgery: In severe cases, joint replacement may be considered, especially for hips or knees.
Staying Active with Arthritis
It may seem counterintuitive, but movement is one of the best things you can do for arthritis. Regular, gentle exercise helps reduce stiffness, maintain muscle strength, and support joint health. Here are a few tips:
- Low-impact exercises: Try walking, swimming, or cycling.
- Stretching and flexibility: Gentle yoga or stretching can improve your range of motion.
- Strength training: Building the muscles around your joints can help stabilize and protect them.
- Rest when needed: Listen to your body, and don’t push through pain.
Before starting any new exercise routine, it’s a good idea to consult with your provider or a physical therapist, especially if you’re managing moderate to severe arthritis. Our Wellness Centers in both Athens and Lavonia may also help you develop an exercise routine that is right for you.
Lifestyle Tips for Living Well
Small, daily adjustments can make a big difference in your comfort and mobility:
- Use assistive tools: Canes, jar openers, or ergonomic utensils can make tasks easier.
- Apply heat or cold: Heat can soothe stiff joints; cold can reduce swelling.
- Eat anti-inflammatory foods: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, omega-3s, and whole grains may help reduce inflammation.
- Stay connected: Support groups—both in-person and online—can provide encouragement and community.
We’re Here for You
Living with arthritis isn’t easy, but you don’t have to do it alone. At St. Mary’s, our compassionate care teams can help you find the right blend of treatments, therapies, and lifestyle changes to keep you moving forward.
If you’re struggling with arthritis pain, reach out to your primary care provider (PCP). Several PCPs in St. Mary’s Medical Group are accepting new patients, often with same-day appointments. Together, we can create a care plan that helps you feel stronger, more comfortable, and more in control of your life.