The school of thought for treating arthritis is that is should be treated as early as possible (like most diseases and conditions, actually!). There are so many different types of arthritis, as well as treatment options. Did you have a specific type of arthritis that you are concerned about, and are wondering how to treat it early or how to prevent its progression?
John Hopkins Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment Center says it best: "the goal of treatment [for specifically rheumatoid arthritis] now aims toward achieving the lowest possible level of arthritis disease activity and remission if possible, the minimization of joint damage, and enhancing physical function and quality of life."
"The optimal treatment of RA requires a comprehensive program that combines medical, social, and emotional support for the patient."
"Strategies are all aimed at reducing pain and discomfort, preventing deformities and loss of joint function, and maintaining a productive and active life. Inflammation must be suppressed and mechanical and structural abnormalities corrected or compensated by assistive devices."
"Treatment options include medications, reduction of joint stress, physical and occupational therapy, and surgical intervention."
This last sentence probably gets at the heart of your question. There are many treatment options, and equally as many different goals for each treatment option. For instance, one treatment goal may be to help alleviate disease progression, another to reduce inflammation, while another is to increase social support and provide resources to the patient. How "early" each of these treatments are applied depends on the presenting symptoms, the disease progression, and numerous other factors discussed between the patient and doctor.
We can help you find information on different types of treatment options, if you'd like! What symptoms are you having? Have you been diagnosed with arthritis?
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The school of thought for treating arthritis is that is should be treated as early as possible (like most diseases and conditions, actually!). There are so many different types of arthritis, as well as treatment options. Did you have a specific type of arthritis that you are concerned about, and are wondering how to treat it early or how to prevent its progression?
John Hopkins Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment Center says it best: "the goal of treatment [for specifically rheumatoid arthritis] now aims toward achieving the lowest possible level of arthritis disease activity and remission if possible, the minimization of joint damage, and enhancing physical function and quality of life."
"The optimal treatment of RA requires a comprehensive program that combines medical, social, and emotional support for the patient."
"Strategies are all aimed at reducing pain and discomfort, preventing deformities and loss of joint function, and maintaining a productive and active life. Inflammation must be suppressed and mechanical and structural abnormalities corrected or compensated by assistive devices."
"Treatment options include medications, reduction of joint stress, physical and occupational therapy, and surgical intervention."
This last sentence probably gets at the heart of your question. There are many treatment options, and equally as many different goals for each treatment option. For instance, one treatment goal may be to help alleviate disease progression, another to reduce inflammation, while another is to increase social support and provide resources to the patient. How "early" each of these treatments are applied depends on the presenting symptoms, the disease progression, and numerous other factors discussed between the patient and doctor.
We can help you find information on different types of treatment options, if you'd like! What symptoms are you having? Have you been diagnosed with arthritis?
February 15, 2009 - 8:44amThis Comment
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