Ask the Docs
Dr. Roger Wang on Arthritis
Last modified on 2010-03-24 22:28:00 GMT. 0 comments Top
Why do people get arthritis?
The cause of arthritis remains unknown and in many cases it varies on the type of rheumatic disease. Genetics and family history play a big role, as does lifestyle (being overweight), trauma and excessive overuse or wear and tear of the joints. Infection, metabolic disturbances and hormones can also play a role in the development of arthritis.
What is the most common type of arthritis?
Osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease is the most common type of arthritis.
What is the difference between rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic disease or inflammatory disease. The inflammation of the lining or synovium of the joints results in long term joint damage. Osteoarthritis is a chronic condition involving the break down of joint cartilage causing bones to rub against one another. This causes stiffness, pain and loss of movement.
Will cortisone injections relieve the pain associated with arthritis and how long do these shots last?
Cortisone injections will work well in patients with osteoarthritis. Usually the injections will relieve pain for up to three months, depending on the individual.
Roger Wang, MD
Saint Francis Memorial Hospital
Board-certified in Allergy/Immunology and Rheumatology
DIETARY SUPPLMENTS, NSAIDs and OSTEOARTHRITIS
Last modified on 2010-03-03 23:52:39 GMT. 0 comments Top
Can dietary supplements and over-the-counter medications provide any relief for osteoarthritis sufferers?
Supplements and medication can help control the inflammation and swelling associated with arthritis, thereby decreasing pain. Popular options include glucosamine, chondroitan, MSM, and fish oil. Recent research indicates that glucosamine is the most effective for reducing pain and slowing the progress of arthritis.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories reduce the inflammation and swelling associated with arthritis and can diminish pain and stiffness. Please consult your physician as to which type of NSAID is best suited to your current condition and health history.
Judith Bolker, RN
Total Joint Center
Saint Francis Memorial Hospital
DIET, EXERCISE and OSTEOARTHRITIS
Last modified on 2010-03-03 23:52:09 GMT. 0 comments Top
My mother suffers from osteoarthritis and is overweight. Are there special exercise programs for osteoarthritis sufferers?
One of the best things you can do for a painful weight bearing joint is to lose weight. It’s an undeniable fact that excess pounds put more pressure on joints. The easiest way to lose weight is by eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise. Of course, when your joints ache, exercise is probably the farthest thing from your mind. Also, there is a danger in choosing the wrong exercise, which may do more harm than good.
So, if you have osteoarthritis, please consult with a physical therapist or personal trainer to help develop a program best suited for your situation. Because arthritis creates muscle imbalance and lack of flexibility in the affected joint, it is imperative to know which muscles surrounding the joint are weak and which are strong and where range of motion in the joint is normal and where it is lacking.
The following are recommended exercise programs for osteoarthritis sufferers:
1. Land-based therapy: a home exercise program performed once or twice a day, developed by a physical therapist. It works best on a regular exercise schedule.
2. Aquatherapy exercise: programs performed in water where buoyancy takes pressure off the joints.
3. Pilates: a specially formulated exercise program that improves core strength. Many health clubs offer Pilates; please make sure the instructor is certified.
Judith Bolker, RN
Total Joint Center
Saint Francis Memorial Hospital
IS A FLU SHOT ENOUGH?
Last modified on 2010-03-03 23:56:20 GMT. 0 comments Top
How reliable are flu shots in preventing sickness?
While we believe flu shots are effective for many patients, it is very hard to rely solely on vaccination because each year the flu is a different form with possible non-protected strains. It is not necessary for everyone to run out and get a flu shot. However, high-risk people and those who care for anyone in those groups should be vaccinated.
The best way for a low-risk person to avoid the flu is to maintain proper hygiene and be clean. Wash your hands often, and when you do, use hot water. In a public restroom, make sure you limit your exposure by having a paper towel ready before washing your hands and using the paper towel to turn off the faucet. Use the paper towel to open the door, too. Always consider washing your hands before eating, after being around someone who is sick, and before touching your eyes. This can help prevent catching the flu, common cold, and strep throat. You also can help prevent illness by avoiding standing close to someone who is infected, since diseases can spread when someone sneezes or coughs. Many illnesses spread through saliva, so don’t share drinks, food or toothbrushes with anyone else, even if they don’t look or feel sick.
Stress also can play a part in causing sickness and can additionally cause canker sores or painful mouth irritations. Stress can lower the immune system, making it easier to become sick and more difficult to recover. There are many quick and easy ways to ease stress, such as talking to a friend about your problems, watching a funny movie, exercising, playing with a pet, or finding a hobby.
The best way to stay healthy is to do what we have been told all our lives: eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and get plenty of rest.
So while the flu shot can be an effective preventative measure for some, it is more important to look at your overall health picture. A balanced, low-stress approach to the season will more likely keep you out of the sick-bed than any other measure.
Guido Gores, MD
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