What You Need to Know About Common Types of Arthritis

Get Expert Care at a Skilled Nursing Facility in Rhode Island

A female doctor showing medical results to an old ladyAre you or an elderly loved one suffering from arthritis? Our skilled nursing facility in Rhode Island is well-equipped to provide the treatment and care you need. A state-of-the-art rehabilitation gym and experienced team will ease your pain and help you feel stronger. You can count on us to nurse you back to good health.

Arthritis is a general term that is used to describe around 100 different types of joint conditions which affect approximately 50 million adults in the US. Although it is fairly common, few people understand what it really means. Individuals of all ages can have arthritis, including children. However, it occurs more frequently as you age.

Here are the 3 most common types of arthritis we see among patients at our nursing home in Rhode Island:

  1. Osteoarthritis: This is the most common form and generally impacts people over the age of 40, with the majority being 65 years or older. It occurs when the cartilage inside the joints disintegrates or wears away causing bones to rub against each other. Osteoarthritis affects the neck, hands, lower back, knees and hips, and can be very painful.
  2. Rheumatoid arthritis: Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disorder that typically affects the small joints in your hands and feet. This auto immune disease affects the lining of your joints, causing a painful swelling that can eventually result in bone erosion and joint deformity. Although rheumatoid arthritis can occur at any age, it usually begins after the age of 40.
  3. Psoriatic arthritis: Psoriatic arthritis can develop at any time, but it most commonly appears between the ages of 30 and 50. Genes, the immune system and environmental factors are all believed to play a role in the onset of the disease. Psoriatic arthritis usually affects the distal joints (those closest to the nail) in fingers or toes. You may also experience symptoms in your lower back, wrists, knees or ankle. In 85 percent of patients, psoriasis occurs before joint disease.

Treatment for Arthritis

Arthritis treatment typically focuses on relieving your symptoms and improving joint function. You or a loved one may need to try different treatments or combinations of methods to find what works best for you.

  • Medications: The medications used to treat arthritis vary depending on the type of arthritis you are suffering from. They include analgesics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and corticosteroids (also available in injection form).
  • Physical Therapy: This can be helpful for some types of arthritis. Certain exercises have proven to improve range of motion and strengthen the muscles surrounding joints.
  • Surgery: If other treatments don’t help, your doctor may suggest surgery such as joint repair, joint replacement and joint fusion.

In our experience, making time for appropriate physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight are an essential part of any arthritis treatment.

An old lady smiling while sitting on a wheel-chairAt The Holiday Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Manville, Rhode Island, we have an experienced team to care of our residents who suffer from arthritis. Whether you are here to stay for the long term or seeking rehabilitation after surgery, our professionals will look after you or your loved ones like family. Customized care plans cater to your specific needs.

As a premiere facility for skilled nursing, rehabilitation and respite care, we have all the amenities and services you may require. This includes well-planned dining menus and activities to keep you well nourished, active and happy.

Are you or a senior family member suffering from arthritis or planning surgery for an arthritic ailment? Come to our skilled nursing facility in Manville, Rhode Island for a smooth recovery.

Give us a call at 401-765-1440 for more information or fill out our online form to book a tour.