Experiencing Joint Pain or Swelling? Understanding and Living with Arthritis

Arthritis is inflammation of one or more joints. A joint is the area where two bones meet. Arthritis involves the breakdown of cartilage. Cartilage normally protects a joint, allowing it to move smoothly. Cartilage also absorbs shock when pressure is placed on the joint, such as when you walk. Without the normal amount of cartilage, the bones rub together, causing pain, swelling and stiffness.

There are over 100 different types of arthritis. The three most common types of arthritis are:

• Osteoarthritis: Often a normal result of aging, osteoarthritis is caused by wear and tear on a joint.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune disease, which means the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue, rheumatoid arthritis is more likely to occur in women than men.
• Gout: Caused by buildup of uric acid in the blood, gout is a painful condition that typically affects one joint. It is more likely to occur in men than women.

Regardless of the type of arthritis, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep and exercising regularly (even if you experience some stiffness or pain following exercise) will typically be recommended, both to ease current symptoms and keep your condition from getting worse.

While you should always check with your doctor to determine whether a certain exercise or exercise program is safe for your specific medical situation, most people with arthritis are encouraged to try exercises that emphasize stretching, strengthening, posture and range of motion—such as low-impact aerobics, swimming, tai chi and low-stress yoga.

The following sections of this newsletter provide more detailed information about osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout. If you're experiencing symptoms not described here or are not sure whether you need to see a doctor, Nurseline can help!

Concerned About Arthritis? Contact Nurseline

Arthritis symptoms can cause acute pain—don't suffer in silence. If you or someone in your family is experiencing symptoms of arthritis or have questions about your treatment options, please call Nurseline at 866.220.3138 any time of the day or night. We can help you evaluate symptoms and suggest ways to ease the pain associated with the different types of arthritis.

More About Arthritis: The Nurseline Audio Library

The Nurseline Audio Library has information on a wide variety of health and safety topics. To hear detailed information about each type of arthritis, call 866.220.3138 and push 3. When prompted, punch in:

• Code 1030 for the audio file on Arthritis
• Code 1031 for Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Code 1034 for the audio file on Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Code 1039 for the audio file on Gout
• Code 1037 for the audio file on National Support Services for Arthritis

Pathways to Well Being Call VITAL WorkLife at 800.383.1908 or access resources through your VITAL WorkLife App