Arthritis: How is it Diagnosed & Treated?

Your doctor will review your medical history and examine you. You may have blood tests and X-rays of the joints that are bothering you.

There are many ways to treat arthritis. The goal of treatment is to keep the joints working properly by relieving pain and stiffness, reducing swelling, and stopping or slowing down damage to the joints.

Medicine can control pain and reduce inflammation. Most of the time, acetaminophen (Tylenol) is the best medicine to use to relieve pain because it has fewer side effects than other pain relievers. A group of medicines called NSAIDs, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen can help relieve pain and inflammation. Adults age 65 and older should not take NSAIDs for more than 7 days without their doctor's approval. NSAIDs help reduce pain and swelling but can cause kidney and stomach problems.

Three types of exercise are best for people with arthritis:

• Range-of-motion. These are gentle stretching exercises that help you move each joint as far as possible. Examples include tai chi and yoga. This type of exercise helps maintain or increase flexibility and relieve stiffness.
• Strengthening. Exercises such as weight training help increase muscle strength. Strong muscles help to support joints and help you to move more easily and with less pain.
• Aerobic or endurance. Exercises such as walking or bicycle riding improve overall health and help control weight. Extra weight puts extra strain on many joints. A healthy diet is also important to help you control body weight and stay healthy.

Talk with your doctor before you start an exercise program. Too much too soon or even at the wrong time of day may make arthritis worse. Your doctor may refer you to a physical therapist to design a program that is right for you.

Your doctor may suggest using heat or cold therapy, depending on the type of arthritis you have. Sometimes a splint or brace is used to let the joint rest and protect it from injury.