Arthritis is one of the most common conditions in America – one in five of us have been diagnosed by a physician. But when is it a stiff joint or something more?

There are more than 100 different types of arthritis, yet they all have something in common. “All types of arthritis cause pain from inflammation that can lead to damage in the joints,” says Mary Biskup, MD, a family practice physician with Adventist GlenOaks Hospital. “The differences are the causes and locations of the pain.”

The warning signs
Different types of arthritis require different treatments, which is why a proper and timely diagnosis is so important. See your doctor if the following symptoms have lasted for more than two weeks:

• Ongoing joint pain
• Joint swelling or stiffness
• Warmth and redness in a joint
• Problems moving a joint

Based on your symptoms and medical history, your doctor will perform blood tests and imaging studies to determine which type of arthritis you have. Some of the most common types include:

• Osteoarthritis, which is caused by loss of cartilage between the joints – such as those in the hands, feet, hips, knees and spine.

  Normal wear and tear, age, trauma, obesity and diabetes can increase your risk. “When cartilage wears down, cysts and bone spurs can develop, which are very painful,” Dr. Biskup says. “The pain often feels dull or achy with joint use and is relieved by rest.”

• Rheumatoid arthritis, which occurs when your immune system attacks your body’s own tissues (called an autoimmune disease). This causes swelling, pain and stiffness in the hands, wrists, shoulders, knees, ankles and feet.

  Most people develop rheumatoid arthritis between the ages of 25 and 55. Although studies are still determining what causes this condition, your genes, the environment and hormones may play a role.

• Gout, which occurs when uric acid builds up in the blood. Eating foods rich in purines, such as liver, dried beans or anchovies, can lead to a gout attack – where joints become red, swollen, hot and stiff. Being overweight and drinking too much alcohol also increases your risk. Although you may first notice symptoms in your big toe, the hands, knees and feet may also be affected.

At-home management tips
Although arthritis is a painful condition, there is a lot you can do at home to give your joints much needed relief. Below, Dr. Biskup offers some helpful tips:

1. Manage any underlying chronic conditions, such as diabetes
2. Maintain a healthy weight
3. Start practicing pilates or yoga to gain flexibility
4. Exercise in a warm pool to avoid pressure on the joints
5. Eat a diet high in fiber, vegetables, fish, nuts and whole grains
6. Reduce your intake of red meat, dairy and eggs
7. Avoid tobacco and alcohol
8. During a flare-up, take oral or topical anti-inflammatory medications

For more serious arthritic conditions, patients can find more options for pain relief at Adventist Midwest Health. “We have a variety of physicians who specialize in caring for injured joints,” Dr. Biskup says. Patients can also find individualized physical therapy programs, non-surgical treatment options and state-of-the-art joint replacement procedures.

Living in pain? Let us help you find a physician. No matter if it's your knees, back or hands, we can help you find an experienced physician committed to keeping you healthy. Call 866-533-7968 today.