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National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion
Arthritis
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Contact Information:

National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion

Division of Adult and Community Health
Health Care and Aging Studies Branch

Arthritis Program
Mailstop K-51
4770 Buford Highway NE
Atlanta, GA 30341-3724
Phone: 770.488.5464
Fax: 770.488.5964
Email Us



 


Arthritis Basics


Arthritis Topics

bullet Arthritis Types — Overview
bullet Management
bullet Risk Factors
bullet Key Public Health Messages
bullet Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

See Also:
bullet Quick Stats
bullet Arthritis: At A Glance


Management

The focus of treatment for arthritis is to control pain, minimize joint damage, and improve or maintain function and quality of life. According to the American College of Rheumatology, the treatment of arthritis might involve the following:

  • Medication
  • Nonpharmacologic therapies
    • Physical or occupational therapy
    • Splints or joint assistive aids
    • Patient education and support
    • Weight loss
  • Surgery

In conjunction with medical treatment, self-management of arthritis symptoms is very important as well.

The Arthritis Foundation Self Help Program and the Chronic Disease Self-Management Program, both developed by Dr. Kate Lorig of Stanford University, are effective self-management education programs. These program help people develop the skills needed to manage their arthritis on a day to day basis and gain the confidence to carry it out.

For management of specific types of arthritis, refer to the types section.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Page last reviewed: June 8, 2008
Page last modified: May 24, 2007
Content Source: Division of Adult and Community Health, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion





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