Porter Regional Hospital: Think You Might Have Arthritis? Here’s How to Find Out (and Find Relief)

Porter-Regional-Hospital-you-might-have-arthritis-2017The term “arthritis” refers to more than 100 different conditions and diseases, according to the Arthritis Foundation, and they all have different symptoms and causes. So how do you know what is causing your joint pain?

The truth is, only your doctor can diagnose arthritis, because the symptoms range so broadly. He or she may need to take a family history and conduct a physical exam and testing before making a diagnosis.

However, if you have any joint swelling, pain, stiffness and/or decreased range of motion, you could have one of these common forms, according to the Arthritis Foundation:

  • Osteoarthritis (OA): The most common form, OA is considered a degenerative arthritis, meaning cartilage between joints wears down over time.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis (RA): RA is a type of inflammatory arthritis that often affects small joints, such as those in your hands, and usually impacts the same joints on both sides of the body.
  • Gout: Though you may not think of this as a form of arthritis, gout is considered a type of metabolic arthritis. It occurs when too much uric acid in the body causes inflammation in the joints.

Spice It Up to Get Relief Spices — particularly cayenne, cinnamon, garlic, ginger and turmeric — have potent anti-inflammatory effects, according to the Arthritis Foundation.

Sprinkle ½ to 1 teaspoon of your favorite spice onto four cups of popcorn. Research from the University of Scranton has shown that popcorn is rich in polyphenols, antioxidants that combat inflammation.

Need to discuss joint pain with a primary care doctor? Online scheduling for select providers is now available at PorterHealth.com, or by calling 844-PPG-DOCS (774-3627).