As people age, the wear and tear on their joints can lead to the development of arthritis. Arthritis causes inflammation and pain in the joints, making it difficult for seniors to perform daily activities. With the help of a primary care physician that specializes in senior arthritis, patients can experience reduced pain, and improve their quality of life.
Arthritis is a common health concern among older adults, impacting 47% of individuals over 65. It refers to the inflammation of one or more joints, leading to pain and reduced mobility. For seniors these effects are especially worrisome due to the increased risk of falls.
There are a variety of arthritis causes in seniors including previous injuries, genetic predisposition, obesity, smoking, and infections/diseases. However, the long-term overuse of your joints due to sports or exercise can also contribute to the development of arthritis.
Arthritis encompasses a broad range of conditions, each with its own set of symptoms and treatment approaches. The two most common types of arthritis among older adults are osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
Osteoarthritis is the most prevalent form of arthritis among senior. It occurs when the protective cartilage cushioning the ends of the bones wears down over time. OA commonly affects weight-bearing joints such as the knees, hips, and spine.
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the joint. RA can affect multiple joints simultaneously and may also involve other organs and tissues in the body. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to managing RA effectively and preventing long-term joint damage.
The symptoms of arthritis can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. However, some of the common symptoms experienced by older adults with arthritis include the following.
Joint pain is a hallmark symptom of geriatric arthritis. Seniors may experience discomfort, tenderness, or aching in the affected joints.
Stiffness is most common in the morning and after periods of inactivity. Joints may feel rigid, making movement challenging and requiring time to ease into daily routines.
Joints impacted by arthritis may become swollen due to inflammation. This swelling can result in visible changes in the affected areas.
Arthritis can lead to a reduced range of motion in the affected joints, affecting the ability to bend, flex, or move certain body parts freely.
Chronic pain and inflammation can contribute to persistent fatigue. The constant effort to manage discomfort may lead to increased tiredness and decreased energy levels.
In some cases, arthritis may cause joint deformities over time. This can result in changes to the shape and alignment of the joints.
The management of chronic arthritis pain in the elderly involves a holistic approach that combines medication, lifestyle modifications, and supportive therapies. The goals of treatment are to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and preserve joint function. Primary care physicians who specialize in geriatric arthritis can help support seniors throughout their treatment to improve their quality of life.
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Depending on the type and severity of your arthritis, your Medicare doctor may prescribe NSAIDs, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARD), or corticosteroids. We ensure that your treatment won’t have negative interactions with the rest of your medication regime.
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Living with chronic pain can take a toll on your mental well-being. It is essential to address the emotional impact of arthritis. Your physician may recommend psychiatric medication to combat depression and anxiety, or talk therapy.
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While lifestyle modifications can help alleviate some arthritis symptoms in seniors, your physician may recommend physical or occupational therapy when symptoms are impacting daily functioning. We can assist in the coordination of this care through referrals and follow ups.
Arthritis can be a debilitating condition increasing stress among patients and caregivers. With guidance and knowledge you’ll be able to effectively manage your condition in and outside of your doctor’s office. Get answers to commonly asked questions about arthritis here.
Engaging in regular physical activity, particularly low-impact exercises, can actually help reduce arthritis pain by strengthening muscles and improving joint flexibility. However, seniors should consult with their doctor before starting any exercise regimen.
Some natural remedies, such as turmeric, ginger, and omega-3 fatty acids, may have anti-inflammatory properties and can potentially help manage arthritis pain. However, it is important to discuss these remedies with physician, as they may interact with medications or negatively impact your other conditions.
Geriatric arthritis is typically diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. Your Medicare physician will ask about symptoms, such as joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, as well as any factors that may contribute to the development of arthritis. They may also perform a physical examination to assess joint function and mobility. In some cases, diagnostic tests such as X-rays, blood tests, or joint fluid analysis may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other possible causes of joint pain.
Medicare covers a variety of arthritis-related services under Medicare Plan B. Since arthritis is considered a chronic condition, Medicare B will provide benefits under the chronic care management services program. This covers doctors visits, medications, and physical therapy. Medicare Advantage plans offer additional coverage, particularly for patients who require medications such as DMARDs.
If you or a loved one is experiencing arthritis pain, contact Hopscotch today to get a comprehensive arthritis pain management plan tailored to your unique needs. Remember, there is hope for managing arthritis pain and improving overall well-being in your senior years.