Arthritis: Causes, Treatments & Management
When dealing with arthritis, a condition where joints become inflamed, painful and stiff. Also known as joint inflammation, it affects millions worldwide. Effective care often starts with NSAIDs, non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs that reduce swelling and pain, while DMARDs, disease‑modifying antirheumatic drugs that slow joint damage. For flare‑ups, doctors may prescribe corticosteroids, potent steroids that quickly curb severe inflammation. Alongside medication, physical therapy, targeted exercises and manual techniques that maintain mobility and strength. Together these strategies address the core challenges of arthritis.
arthritis isn’t a single disease; it’s an umbrella for several disorders that share joint damage as a common thread. The most common form, osteoarthritis, results from wear‑and‑tear and shows up as cartilage loss in weight‑bearing joints like knees and hips. Rheumatoid arthritis, by contrast, is an autoimmune attack that inflames the lining of the joint, often affecting smaller joints in the hands and feet first. Psoriatic arthritis adds skin symptoms to the mix, while gout brings sudden, sharp attacks triggered by uric‑acid crystals. Each type influences which medication works best—NSAIDs are great for pain relief across the board, but DMARDs such as methotrexate are essential for controlling rheumatoid disease activity. Corticosteroid injections can provide localized relief when oral meds aren’t enough, and a well‑designed physical‑therapy program can improve range of motion regardless of the specific diagnosis. Lifestyle tweaks—weight management, joint‑friendly diets rich in omega‑3s, and regular low‑impact exercise—also play a huge role in slowing progression.
What You’ll Find Below
The articles in this collection dive deeper into the medicines and strategies mentioned here. You’ll see detailed comparisons of steroids like Aristocort, guides on buying affordable generics such as gabapentin and Synthroid, and explorations of over‑the‑counter alternatives to prescription anti‑inflammatories. There are also pieces on how mental health can affect fluid retention, which can worsen joint swelling, plus reviews of supplements that may support joint health. Whether you’re looking for prescribing tips, price‑saving advice, or insight into the side‑effect profiles of common arthritis drugs, the resources below give a practical roadmap to help you manage pain, protect joints, and stay active.
