Millions of Americans think they have arthritis but haven’t gone to a doctor yet. When they do go, it will be the pain that gets them there.

The pain of arthritis serves a purpose when it results in medical attention. Although arthritis is a chronic disease without a cure, early diagnosis makes a big difference. According to Tony Bohannon, Clinical Manager at Baptist Rehab Center, with early diagnosis, certain tests can be taken to indicate what kind of arthritis is present, and treatment can then be tailored to fit. “Early treatment is crucial to arthritis sufferers, because it may stop or slow the joint damage that eventually leads to disability,” says Bohannon. “Learning self-management early also can help ease arthritis pain.”

What Is Arthritis Self-Management?
The goal of self-management is to help the sufferer get control of the symptoms of arthritis that affect daily life. The arthritis self-manager can become educated about arthritis, set realistic goals, and then take steps to make change happen.

According to Bohannon, some common problems of arthritis respond well to self-management. “Creative ways to cope with pain, fatigue, and stiffness can be learned. One of the most successful is joining an exercise program, such as yoga, tai chi, or aquatics, to relieve pain. Inactivity caused by pain feeds into a vicious cycle of more pain, inactivity, and depression,” says Bohannon. Another method is relaxation therapy. “This approach can ease the muscle tension and improve joint movement,” he explains.

Don’t Let Arthritis Get You Down
When pain comes in the window, self-esteem may go out the door. Psychological well-being in people with arthritis is strongly related to the support of others who can be relied on for aid and love. This support network may include physicians, other health care staff, family, or friends. But perhaps the most helpful support comes from being with a group of other people with arthritis, sharing experiences and solutions.

Baptist Rehab Center
Baptist Rehab Center provides a full range of rehabilitation services. Therapists focus on techniques that allow your rehabilitation to proceed at the pace you and your physician desire. Baptist Rehab Center is located at 115 Kiana Court in Paducah. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 270-534-1200.