UNDERSTANDING AND TREATING ARTHRITIS 

By Kip Deweese, Geriatric Nurse Practitioner | Salt Lake Senior Clinic, Salt Lake City LIVING WELL Magazine

Have you found yourself complaining of increasing aches and pains as you get older? You’re not alone. One in five adults in the U.S. have physician-diagnosed arthritis (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention study). In Utah, one in four residents have arthritis.

WHAT IS ARTHRITIS?

Arthritis is caused by inflammation in the joints and results in pain, heat and stiffness in or around the joints. Often considered a chronic condition, the most common kinds of arthritis are osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia and rheumatoid arthritis.

COMMON ARTHRITIS SYMPTOMS

• Ongoing inflammation, heat or stiffness in or around your joint/s.

• Persistent joint pain.

• Loss of range of motion or flexibility in a joint.

• Extreme fatigue and/or weakness.

• Unexplained weight loss.

• Experiencing crepitus (a cracking, popping or grinding sensation) in one or more of your joints.

WHO GETS ARTHRITIS?

Genetics, lifestyle and environment all affect who does or doesn’t get arthritis. Arthritis is highest among women and individuals who are clinically obese (particularly those with a BMI above 40). Smokers and those that are physically inactive also have a much higher incidence of arthritis.

Damage to the joints through sports-related activities or injuries will also affect the incidence of future osteoarthritis. Occupations involving repetitive actions like squatting or bending the knees can also lead to arthritis.

Arthritis is often hereditary and is most likely to occur at age of 45 or older but can affect people of any age, even children.

WHEN TO SEE YOUR DOCTOR

Since arthritis is the #1 listed cause of disability, it’s important to see your doctor to get an early and correct diagnosis when you experience ongoing pain, stiffness and swelling in or around your joints. There are more than 100 kinds of arthritis, so knowing what kind you have and understanding how to best treat it are important.

Proper management of arthritis symptoms along with needed lifestyle changes and medication can help keep this condition in check.

HOW TO EASE ARTHRITIS SYMPTOMS

• See your doctor for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

• Lose weight. Excessive weight puts more pressure on your joints, breaking down cartilage. Losing even 10 pounds could cut your risk of knee osteoarthritis.

• Get moving. Physical activity decreases pain and improves function.

• Educate yourself and learn how to manage your arthritis symptoms.

TWO CONVENIENT LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU 

Salt Lake Senior Clinic

SALT LAKE 

82 South 1100 East, Suite 204

Salt Lake City, UT 84102

801-350-4602

SANDY 

9350 South 150 East, Suite 150

Salt Lake City, UT 84070

801-903-5666

SaltLakeSeniorClinic.com