Arthritis: Symptoms and Natural Treatments | Colbert Institute

Did you know that arthritis affects over 50 million adults in the U.S. alone? This common condition causes joint pain, stiffness, and inflammation, often limiting mobility and impacting daily life. In this post, we’ll explore the two most common forms—osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis—along with their symptoms and causes. You'll also learn practical, natural strategies to help reduce pain, improve joint function, and support a more active, comfortable lifestyle.

Arthritis is a term that encompasses various types of joint inflammation, but two of the most prevalent forms are osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). 

What is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is often referred to as 'wear and tear' arthritis and usually develops with age. In OA, the protective cartilage at the ends of the bones gradually deteriorates, causing bones to rub against each other. This can lead to pain, stiffness, and swelling.

Common Symptoms:
- Joint pain and stiffness, particularly after physical activity or when resting.
- Reduced flexibility and limited range of motion.
- Bone spurs may form around the affected joint, leading to additional discomfort.

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the joint tissues, leading to inflammation and potential joint deformity. RA can affect individuals at any age, and its severity may vary from mild to severe.

Common Symptoms:
- Tender, swollen, and warm joints, particularly in the hands, wrists, and knees.
- Morning stiffness lasting longer than 30 minutes.
- Fatigue, fever, and weight loss can also occur due to systemic inflammation.

Understanding these symptoms is crucial for early diagnosis and effective management. If you experience persistent joint pain or stiffness, it’s advisable to seek medical guidance early—Dr. Don Colbert at The Colbert Institute of Anti-Aging, can help you address these issues and improve your joint health.

Common Treatment Options

Managing arthritis typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes and treatments. Here are some effective strategies:

1. Medication
   Pain relievers like NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen) can help manage discomfort. For RA, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are often prescribed to slow the disease's progression.

2. Physical Therapy
   Encouraging movement through physical therapy can enhance joint function and reduce pain. A therapist can tailor exercises to your specific needs, guiding you on safe ways to strengthen affected muscles.

3. Healthy Lifestyle Choices

   • Diet: Incorporate anti-inflammatory foods like fatty fish rich in omega-3s, fruits, and vegetables. These can help reduce overall inflammation in the body.

   • Hydration: Staying well-hydrated supports joint lubrication, making movement easier and reducing friction in joints.

   • Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight can alleviate stress on weight-bearing joints, which is especially beneficial for those with OA.

   • Regular Exercise: Low-impact activities like walking and swimming can enhance flexibility and muscle strength without placing excessive strain on your joints.

4. Alternative Therapies
   Some people find relief through alternative approaches, such as acupuncture or chiropractic care. These therapies can help reduce pain and improve joint function.

5. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy
   PRP therapy involves injecting a concentration of your own platelets into the affected joint to promote healing and reduce inflammation. This minimally invasive, regenerative approach is gaining popularity as a natural way to manage arthritis symptoms and support long-term joint health.

A Road to Living Well with Arthritis