Arthritis is one of the most common health conditions in the United States, affecting more than 50 million adults. While it’s often associated with older age, arthritis can impact people of all ages, including children. The good news is that with the right care and lifestyle choices, arthritis is a condition that can be managed—allowing you to stay active and improve your quality of life.
What Is Arthritis?
Arthritis is not just one disease but a group of conditions that cause inflammation and stiffness in the joints. The two most common types are:
- Osteoarthritis (OA): Caused by wear and tear on the joints over time.
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA): An autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the joints.
Both can lead to pain, swelling, and reduced mobility if left untreated.
Common Symptoms
If you’re experiencing arthritis, you may notice:
- Joint pain, swelling, or stiffness
- Decreased range of motion
- Morning stiffness that lasts longer than 30 minutes
- Fatigue (especially with rheumatoid arthritis)
Recognizing these symptoms early and seeking medical care can help prevent long-term damage.
Managing Arthritis
Although there is no cure for arthritis, there are many effective strategies to manage symptoms:
- Stay Active: Regular, low-impact exercise such as walking, swimming, or biking helps keep joints flexible and muscles strong.
- Healthy Eating: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and omega-3 fatty acids can reduce inflammation.
- Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight decreases stress on weight-bearing joints like hips and knees.
- Medication & Treatments: Over-the-counter pain relievers, prescription medications, and sometimes injections can reduce pain and inflammation.
- Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises and stretches can restore mobility and reduce discomfort.
Whole-Person Care at Aslan Health
At Aslan Health, we believe in caring for the whole person—body, mind, and spirit. For patients living with arthritis, that means not only providing medical treatment but also offering support for lifestyle changes that can make a difference. Whether it’s discussing nutrition, creating an exercise plan, or simply being there to listen, our team is committed to walking alongside you in your journey toward better health.
If you’re living with arthritis or suspect you may have symptoms, don’t wait until the pain becomes overwhelming. Visit Aslan Health for affordable, quality care. Together, we can develop a plan to help you stay active, reduce pain, and improve your daily life.
📞 Call us today at 320-297-6800 or stop by our clinic in St. Cloud. Walk-ins are welcome, and appointments can be scheduled at aslanclinic.com.