Arthritis affects millions worldwide, causing pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. While many treatments claim to offer relief, not all are backed by science. This article explores the truth about arthritis, highlighting effective treatments and debunking common myths. From medications and lifestyle changes to emerging therapies, discover what truly works—and what’s just a waste of time.
Understanding Arthritis
Arthritis is characterized by joint inflammation, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. While OA results from wear and tear of cartilage, RA is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks joint tissues.
Osteoarthritis (OA)
OA involves the degeneration of joint cartilage and underlying bone, causing pain and stiffness, particularly in the hips, knees, and hands. Factors such as aging, obesity, and joint injuries contribute to its development.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
RA is an autoimmune condition marked by the immune system erroneously targeting the synovium—the lining of membranes that surround joints. This leads to inflammation, pain, and potential joint deformity.
Evidence-Based Treatments
Effective arthritis management combines pharmacological interventions, lifestyle modifications, and, in some cases, surgical procedures.
Pharmacological Interventions
Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (DMARDs)
DMARDs are pivotal in managing RA by slowing disease progression and preventing joint damage. Methotrexate, a conventional synthetic DMARD, has demonstrated efficacy in reducing RA symptoms and halting radiographic damage. Studies indicate that patients on methotrexate exhibit sustained clinical responses over time.
Biologic DMARDs
Biologic agents target specific components of the immune system. For instance, upadacitinib, a Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor, has shown superiority over adalimumab in improving RA symptoms and physical function. Clinical trials reveal that upadacitinib leads to significant improvements in disease activity and inhibits radiographic progression.
Non-Pharmacological Intervention
Brainfood pyramid
Non-pharmacological interventions (NPI) are any non-chemical intervention (theoretically supported) performed on and benefitting the patient.
NPI have been employed as medical interventions (predating modern pharmacology), and are intended to improve quality of life, slow down deterioration or relieve pain. NPI also reduce health costs reduced and have minimal environmental impact..
Following a healthy lifestyle is possibly the best NPI, contributing to improved health and quality of life. Lifestyle Medicine for Health and Disease Management
Physiotherapy: A Non-Pharmacological Intervention
A wide range of NPI modalities are used by physiotherapists, including manual therapies, electrophysical agents, thermotherapy, hydrotherapy, therapeutic exercise, meditation, and acupuncture. The physiotherapists’ goal is to reduce pain and restore (or maintain) optimal physical functioning via these NPI. Take a look at some of the NPI’s used
Debunking Common Myths
Misconceptions about arthritis can hinder effective management. Addressing these myths is essential for informed decision-making.
Myth: Exercise Worsens Arthritis
Fact: Regular, moderate exercise strengthens muscles around joints, reduces stiffness, and improves mobility. Avoiding physical activity can lead to increased stiffness and muscle weakness.
Myth: Arthritis Is an Inevitable Part of Aging
Fact: While the risk of arthritis increases with age, it is not an inevitable consequence. Factors such as genetics, lifestyle, and joint injuries play significant roles.
Myth: There Is a Miracle Cure for Arthritis
Fact: Currently, there is no cure for arthritis. Treatments focus on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. Some believe in alternative remedies like copper or magnetic bracelets; however, studies show no evidence supporting their efficacy.
Emerging Therapies
Advancements in research continue to explore new avenues for arthritis treatment.
Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)
GAE is a minimally invasive procedure showing promise in alleviating knee OA pain. By reducing blood flow to specific areas of the knee, GAE disrupts inflammation and nerve growth, leading to pain relief. Studies report significant improvements in pain and quality of life post-procedure.
Semaglutide for Weight Management
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What is this medication?
SEMAGLUTIDE (SEM a GLOO tide) promotes weight loss. It may also be used to maintain weight loss. It works by decreasing appetite. Changes to diet and exercise are often combined with this medication.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Wegovy
What should I tell my care team before I take this medication
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
Endocrine tumors (MEN 2) or if someone in your family had these tumors
Eye disease, vision problems
Gallbladder disease
History of depression or mental health disease
History of pancreatitis
Kidney disease
Stomach or intestine problems
Suicidal thoughts, plans, or attempt; a previous suicide attempt by you or a family member
Thyroid cancer or if someone in your family had thyroid cancer
An unusual or allergic reaction to semaglutide, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
Breast-feeding
How should I use this medication?
This medication is injected under the skin. You will be taught how to prepare and give it. Take it as directed on the prescription label. It is given once every week (every 7 days). Keep taking it unless your care team tells you to stop.
It is important that you put your used needles and pens in a special sharps container. Do not put them in a trash can. If you do not have a sharps container, call your pharmacist or care team to get one.
A special Med Guide will be given to you by the pharmacist with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.
This medication comes with INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE. Ask your pharmacist for directions on how to use this medication. Read the information carefully. Talk to your pharmacist or care team if you have questions.
Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.
Over dosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose and the next scheduled dose is more than 2 days away, take the missed dose as soon as possible. If you miss a dose and the next scheduled dose is less than 2 days away, do not take the missed dose. Take the next dose at your regular time. Do not take double or extra doses. If you miss your dose for 2 weeks or more, take the next dose at your regular time or call your care team to talk about how to restart this medication.
What may interact with this medication?
Insulin and other medications for diabetes
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medication?
Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. It may be some time before you see the benefit from this medication.
Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication. Check with your care team if you have severe diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting, or if you sweat a lot. The loss of too much body fluid may make it dangerous for you to take this medication.
This medication may affect blood sugar levels. Ask your care team if changes in diet or medications are needed if you have diabetes.
If you or your family notice any changes in your behavior, such as new or worsening depression, thoughts of harming yourself, anxiety, other unusual or disturbing thoughts, or memory loss, call your care team right away.
Women should inform their care team if they wish to become pregnant or think they might be pregnant. Losing weight while pregnant is not advised and may cause harm to the unborn child. Talk to your care team for more information.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
Change in vision
Dehydration—increased thirst, dry mouth, feeling faint or lightheaded, headache, dark yellow or brown urine
Gallbladder problems—severe stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, fever
Heart palpitations—rapid, pounding, or irregular heartbeat
Kidney injury—decrease in the amount of urine, swelling of the ankles, hands, or feet
Pancreatitis—severe stomach pain that spreads to your back or gets worse after eating or when touched, fever, nausea, vomiting
Thoughts of suicide or self-harm, worsening mood, feelings of depression
Thyroid cancer—new mass or lump in the neck, pain or trouble swallowing, trouble breathing, hoarseness
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome)
Diarrhea
Loss of appetite
Nausea
Stomach pain
Vomiting
Healing is a matter of time, but it is sometimes also a matter of opportunity.
Hippocrates
Conclusion
Effective arthritis management requires a multifaceted approach, combining evidence-based medical treatments with lifestyle modifications. Dispelling myths and embracing scientifically supported interventions empower patients to lead active, fulfilling lives despite their diagnosis. Ongoing research continues to enhance our understanding and treatment of this complex condition.
