Understanding Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a major cause of disability affecting about 1% of the population. Although much effort has been expended on research into the causes and cures of RA, little progress has been made. The focus of treatment in RA is on reducing the disabling consequences of the disease and controlling the symptoms. Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis examines the nature of RA and its symptoms of pain and stiffness. The role of health care professionals and the individual's encounters with the doctor are important to understand as these experiences influence the individual's behaviour and understanding of their RA. This book will be an invaluable aid to the considerable number of people who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, their families, carers and all health professionals involved in its treatment.

"Arthritis may slow you down but it doesn't have to stop you." Manage and live effectively with arthritis using "Understanding Arthritis: A Guide to Managing and Living with Joint Pain and Inflammation." This comprehensive guide demystifies arthritis, equipping you with the knowledge and strategies you need to lead a fulfilling life, despite the condition. Starting with a clear overview of arthritis, this book lays a strong foundation, covering the various symptoms, diagnosis processes, and the impacts of arthritis on daily life. It then dives deeper into different types of arthritis such as Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid arthritis, Psoriatic arthritis, and Gout, including their causes and risk factors. In its subsequent sections, the guide explores the wide range of treatments available for arthritis, including medications, their working mechanisms, common side effects, and risks. It also discusses non-medication approaches, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and natural remedies. The book pays particular attention to the management of arthritis pain and inflammation, offering practical strategies, diet recommendations, exercise routines, and stress reduction techniques tailored specifically for arthritis patients. It focuses on the importance of maintaining mobility and introduces various assistive devices and adaptations that can make your home more arthritis-friendly. Furthermore, it explores the impact of arthritis on mental health and provides effective strategies for managing the same. It also guides on managing arthritis symptoms in the workplace and offers advice for success at work, suggesting suitable career choices for individuals with arthritis. The concluding chapters provide coping strategies, ideas for building a support system, and encourage readers to embrace their strengths and talents. The book ends with a recap of key takeaways and encouragement to seek treatment and support for arthritis. "Understanding Arthritis: A Guide to Managing and Living with Joint Pain and Inflammation" is an empowering resource for those living with arthritis and their loved ones. Arm yourself with this wealth of knowledge and turn your arthritis journey into a path of resilience and adaptability.Table of contents: Introduction What is arthritis? Overview of symptoms and diagnosis The impact of arthritis on daily life Understanding Arthritis Types Osteoarthritis Rheumatoid arthritis Psoriatic arthritis Gout Arthritis Causes and Risk Factors Age and genetics Lifestyle factors Co-existing conditions Diagnosing Arthritis The diagnostic process for arthritis Common assessment tools and tests Consulting with healthcare providers Medication and Arthritis Overview of arthritis medications How medications work to treat arthritis Common side effects and risks Non-Medication Approaches to Arthritis Treatment Physical therapy for arthritis Occupational therapy for arthritis Natural remedies and alternative therapies Managing Arthritis Pain Strategies for managing arthritis pain Exercise and physical activity for arthritis Heat and cold therapy for arthritis Managing Arthritis Inflammation Strategies for managing arthritis inflammation Anti-inflammatory diet and supplements Stress reduction techniques for arthritis Arthritis and Exercise Benefits of exercise for arthritis Types of exercise for arthritis Building an exercise routine with arthritis Arthritis and Diet The impact of diet on arthritis symptoms Foods to eat and avoid for arthritis Building a healthy eating plan with arthritis Arthritis and Sleep The impact of arthritis on sleep Strategies for improving sleep with arthritis Sleep aids and supports for arthritis Arthritis and Mobility Strategies for maintaining mobility with arthritis Assistive devices and adaptations for arthritis Building a safe and accessible home with arthritis Arthritis and Mental Health The impact of arthritis on mental health Strategies for managing mental health with arthritis Seeking support and treatment Arthritis and Work Managing arthritis symptoms in the workplace Accommodations and strategies for success at work Career choices for individuals with arthritis Living with Arthritis Coping strategies for living with arthritis Building a support system Embracing strengths and talents Conclusion Recap of key takeaways Encouragement to seek treatment and support for arthritis ISBN: 9781776848119

A guide to living well with this common—and complex—condition from“one of the most reliable, respected health resources that Americans have” (Publishers Weekly). From the doctors at Mayo Clinic—the top-ranked hospital in the country according to US News & World Report—this book is a complete guide to understanding and living with arthritis. Find the latest expertise on various forms of arthritis, medications and other treatment options, and self-care to successfully manage joint pain and stay active and independent. If you have joint pain, you know it can lead to frustrating limitations in daily life. In fact, this complex group of joint diseases—osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and many other forms—is the most common cause of disability in the United States. But living with it doesn’t have to mean sitting on the sidelines. This book offers the same expert knowledge that Mayo Clinic doctors, nurses and therapists use in caring for patients. Mayo Clinic Guide to Arthritis: • Breaks down different forms of arthritis and joint pain to help you understand their causes, their signs and symptoms, and what each may mean for your health • Explores the latest in arthritis treatments, including new medications to slow or stop the disease, improved options for joint surgery, joint injections, and evidence-based guidance on pain control and integrative medicine • Provides practical tips for living with arthritis while exercising, traveling, or working • Offers useful advice on diet, mental health, and protecting your joints

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a major cause of disability affecting about 1% of the population. Although much effort has been expended on research into the causes and cures of RA, little progress has been made. The focus of treatment in RA is on reducing the disabling consequences of the disease and controlling the symptoms. Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis examines the nature of RA and its symptoms of pain and stiffness. The role of health care professionals and the individual's encounters with the doctor are important to understand as these experiences influence the individual's behaviour and understanding of their RA. This book will be an invaluable aid to the considerable number of people who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, their families, carers and all health professionals involved in its treatment.

In Understanding Arthritis, Dr. Oyoo makes a spirited effort to demystify a disease many of his clients-and most Africans-are only now coming to terms with its destructive impact if left unattended. In simple language, he talks about arthritis in children, Rheumatoid arthritis, Reactive arthritis, Osteoarthritis, Gout, and Lupus. What you find in this book is a case of how each type of arthritis presents, its diagnosis, its treatment, the foods required for its management and education. Life can be lived better by understanding how this disease behaves!

A guide for the layman to insure a complete understanding of arthritis. Written by top specialists in the field. Full of essential info on where to go and who to see to survive this condition.