What You Need to Know About Living with Arthritis

Do you have Arthritis?

Arthritis is a general term for conditions that affect the joints, tissues around joints, and other connective tissues. This is an inflammation that usually comes with the feeling of pain, stiffness and swelling.

There are many types of arthritis. Osteoarthritis, for example, is the most common form among older adults, according to the National Institute on Aging.

Do you have Arthritis?

Symptoms vary by arthritis type but usually include joint pain and stiffness. Pain is the way your body tells you that something is wrong. You might have trouble moving around. You need to see your medical provider to find out if you're experiencing arthritis pain or something else.

What can you do to manage Arthritis?

See your medical provider regularly.

Although there are many Over-The-Counter (OTC) medications that people use to relieve pain they think is caused by Arthritis, it is important to consult a medical professional to ensure proper diagnosis. Only a medical provider can tell if you have Arthritis or a related condition and how to treat it.

Manage your weight.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), keeping a healthy weight can help slow arthritis symptoms from getting worse so you can keep doing the activities you enjoy. Your dietitian can help develop a meal plan that's right for you.

Be physically active.

Exercising, going for a walk, and moving all of your joints can help you manage your arthritis. The CDC states that according to research, physical activity reduces pain, improves physical function, and delays physical limitations. Speak with your physical or occupational therapist to discuss an exercise plan that will work for you.

Take your medicines when and how you are supposed to.

Your medical provider will let you know if medications can help you. Before you leave the doctor’s office, make sure you ask about the best way to take the medicine they prescribed. For example, you may need to take some medicines with milk, or you may need to eat something just before or after taking them, to make sure they don’t upset your stomach.

Tell your medical provider if you are taking OTC medications, using pain relieving creams, or any herbal or homeopathic treatments. They will review them to make sure that there are no interactions with your other medications.

CenterLight Healthcare PACE is committed to providing accurate health-related information to help individuals live well, stay healthy and make well-informed healthcare decisions. Information in this material is strictly educational. We recommend that users consult with their medical provider regarding their care.

This blog post is written by Heather Ogando, MD, Vice President of Clinical Operations at CenterLight Healthcare PACE.

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Updated April 29, 2025