Acting on Arthritis: How to Manage Inflammation and More
Arthritis in the feet and ankles can be a real pain, especially during the colder months. In the following, Edmond Norman Foot & Ankle will separate myth from fact, exploring how to manage arthritis effectively at any time of year. Let’s get to it!
Myth vs. Fact: Arthritis in Winter
- Myth: Arthritis pain is just “in your head” during winter.
- Fact: Cold weather can actually worsen arthritis symptoms. While the exact mechanisms are still being studied, changes in barometric pressure, decreased activity levels, and increased joint stiffness in the cold may all contribute.
Myth vs. Fact: Understanding the Causes
- Myth: Arthritis only affects older people and is just caused by “wear and tear.”
- Fact: Arthritis can affect people of all ages and has various causes.
- Osteoarthritis: This is the “wear and tear” type, where the cartilage in joints breaks down over time.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: This is an autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system attacks the joints.
- Gout: Caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, often triggered by diet, obesity, certain medications, or genetics.
Myth vs. Fact: Managing Arthritis
- Myth: There’s nothing you can do about arthritis pain; you just have to live with it.
- Fact: While there’s no cure for most types of arthritis, there are many ways to manage the pain and inflammation, improving your quality of life:
- Medications:
- Prescription medications, such as corticosteroids or disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), may be necessary for certain types of arthritis. Always consult a doctor first!
- Keep it Moving: Low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or cycling can help maintain joint flexibility and reduce stiffness.
- Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can teach you exercises to strengthen the muscles supporting your joints and improve your range of motion.
- Weight Management: Excess weight puts extra stress on your joints, especially in the feet and ankles. Smart dieting also helps to limit the buildup of uric acid.
- Assistive Devices: Braces or orthotics can help reduce stress on affected joints.
- Medications:
If you’re experiencing foot or ankle pain, get in touch with us today. We’ll help you determine the underlying cause and develop a personalized treatment plan.
Bill Buksh, DPM, works alongside his expert medical staff at Edmond Norman Foot & Ankle to offer superior podiatric care to anyone in need. Pairing thorough, comprehensive remedies for common podiatric conditions with unique specialty treatments for nerve pain, he and his team would be delighted to treat your feet. Contact us to schedule your appointment today!