Waking up in the morning is met with the usual stretch, yawn and snooze button. But if you wake up with aches and pains, experience stiffness with each stretch and snoozing only prolongs the moments between getting your ibuprofen and feeling relief . . . then you might suffer from arthritis pain.
Not all arthritis is the same, just like all arthritis treatment is not the same. A proper diagnosis stems from logging symptoms, x-rays and evaluation from an experienced chiropractor.
Arthritis comes in two forms: osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis is the most common form and is caused by wear and tear on the joints. This type of pain sets presents in the 40’s and older and develops slowly over time. Symptoms often begin on one part of the body and spread to the other; joints affected are typically limited to one set (i.e. knuckles, knees, etc.) Morning stiffness is an easy indicator of osteoarthritis; pain usually lasts less than an hour and returns after activities later in the day.
Conversely, rheumatoid arthritis is classified as an autoimmune disease that can occur quickly at any stage of life. The symptoms occur on both sides of the body in symmetrical places. Morning stiffness lasts longer than an hour and is often associated with fatigue.
The effects of arthritis can limit a patient’s daily activity level and inhibit their ability to engage in work or exercise. This can leave patients feeling helpless and in pain. Blood tests, physical examination, x-rays and symptoms are used to determine the type of arthritis experienced.
It’s hard to get help when you’re having trouble simply getting out of the car, but Dr. Rob Fast. can help. The Back Pain Clinic Belleville is a modern facility with x-rays and ultrasounds to help diagnose and treat neck and back pain. Dr. Fast can create an exercise regime that strengthens your core and stretches the spine to release added pressure on the nerves. Don’t try a new regime on your own; you may exacerbate the pain. The goal of any type of arthritis treatment is pain management and reduction of inflammation.
Make an appointment at the Back Pain Clinic Belleville if any of these symptoms sound familiar. Dr. Fast will help put an end to your pain.