Living with arthritis is hard. Finding the treatment plan that’s right for you can make a difference in the quality of your life.
Identify your condition
Knowing it’s arthritis isn’t enough since there are several types. The arthritis treatment you’ll go for will hugely depend on which type you have, as do your chances for a remission. In some cases, if the disease is degenerative, the goal of treatment will focus on pain management as well as on slowing down the progress of the disease, says Drugs.
Find a doctor
You can’t start your treatment unless you find a doctor. Look for someone who’s experienced and has the right credentials and qualifications to help you. In addition to these, look for a doctor who shows compassion and care. When you’re in pain or discomfort, the right approach can make a difference.
Be honest
Tell your doctor about your symptoms. Don’t try to hold back. Your doctor needs to know to be able to match you with the right arthritis treatment plans. Once your doctor has assessed your condition, treatment might involve medication or surgery.
Ask questions
Don’t be afraid to ask questions, raise possible issues or talk about concerns and misgivings you might have about the treatment or procedure. Knowing as much as you can about your options will help you choose the right one. Just be clear on what those options entail. Clarify terms and expectations with your doctor. That way, you’ll be emotionally prepared for the treatment and its possible results.
Explore options
Aside from medication or surgery, you can also opt for therapy. However, make sure to talk this out with your doctor before you proceed with anything. If it’s a good match with your treatment plan, then you’ll be free to do so. If not, talk about more effective solutions and options with your doctor.
