Nevada County Picayune and Gurdon Times Newspaper Archive

Arthritis Treatments Can Make A Difference In How A Person Feels

Arthritis treatment can make a difference in how a person with the disease feels and what one can accomplish. Unfortunately, any treatment is only as good as a person's ability to follow the treatment plan, and how many people with arthritis find it difficult to do so, according to the Arthritis Foundation.

Arthritis Today, the Arthritis Foundation's national consumer magazine, reports that although most people want to comply with their doctor's orders, a number of factors get in the way to minimize the benefits of prescribed treatment.

Among the roadblocks noted are not liking the side effects of medication, forgetting to take medication because of various circumstances, and failing to refill prescriptions when needed. Compliance with instructions also drops significantly when exercise is advised. Although exercise has been proven to reduce pain and increase range of motion for people with arthritis, an obstacle still exists for people to start a regular program.

"Arthritis may be a long-term condition, and it's important for patients to accept responsibility for understanding and participating in the management of their disease," said Christopher Adams, M.D., Chairman of the Medical and Scientific Committee, Arthritis Foundation, Arkansas Chapter. "Physicians also must recognize the importance of involving patients in treatment decisions in order to get the most cooperation and follow through on the various treatment recommendations."

To increase your odds of following a treatment plan, the Arthritis Foundation recommends that you:

• take responsibility for your care by learning about the disease, treatment options and what motivates or discourages you;

• gain confidence in the greatment plan by asking questions about why certain options are being recommended;

• learn what to expect from a treatment in terms of benefits and side effects;

• know how long it will take before a treatment's results can be fairly evaluated;

• talk to your doctor about any fears or negative results you attribute to the treatment.