The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that more than 54 million Americans have arthritis. If you are one of them, you are far from alone! However, you shouldn’t have to live with joint pain on a daily basis.

During Arthritis Awareness Month, our team at AFC Urgent Care TN wants to share some tips about how you can manage your arthritis so that you can regain your quality of life.

Am I at Risk for Arthritis?

Anyone can experience arthritis, which is an inflammation of the joints. However, your risk for arthritis increases with age. In addition, women are more likely to be diagnosed with arthritis, especially when it comes to osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

The main cause of osteoarthritis is the normal wear and tear of joints as you age. Infection and/or injury can also increase your risk of osteoarthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis, on the other hands, is caused when your body’s immune system attacks the lining of your joints.

Early Signs of Arthritis

• Joint pain
• Joint swelling
• Stiffness of joints
• Deformity of joints
• Grinding sensations
• Lumps and/or bumps around the joints
• Joint tenderness
• Warm joints

Can Arthritis Go Away?

Unfortunately, there is no current cure for arthritis. However, that doesn’t mean you have to live in pain. While certain non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen and naproxen can help with pain and inflammation, exercise can also help you to find relief from arthritis symptoms.

Exercises like stretching, walking, water exercises, tai chi and yoga are great for helping with joint stiffness. Certain foods can also help with inflammation and joint pain.

Foods to Reduce Inflammation

• Fatty fish
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Broccoli
• Walnuts
• Berries
• Spinach
• Grapes

We care about your health, which is why we are now offering telemedicine services. Schedule an AFC TeleCare appointment online with one of our AFC Urgent Care TN locations today for a medical evaluation and treatment plan.