Have you ever bent over or moved and felt pain in a joint? If so, you’re not alone and most likely may be experiencing joint pain due to arthritis. A common condition affecting millions, arthritis is often the culprit behind persistent joint pain. Learning more about this disease can help you learn how to live better with it. Read more to understand arthritis, its symptoms, diagnosis, and various management strategies.

Types of arthritis

Arthritis is not a single disease but rather an umbrella term encompassing over 100 different conditions that cause pain, stiffness, inflammation, and swelling in the joints. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 53 million American adults have been diagnosed with arthritis.¹ While there are many types of arthritis and related conditions, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the most prevalent.

Osteoarthritis

This type of arthritis is the most common, especially among older adults. It occurs when the cartilage, which acts as a cushion between bones, wears away. This breakdown causes the bones to rub together, leading to inflammation, pain, and stiffness. Over time, the affected joints can lose strength, and the pain may become chronic.

Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the tissues of the joints. This attack leads to symmetrical pain and inflammation. Unlike osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis can occur at a younger age and is more common in women. It is also characterized by flare-ups and periods of remission. Rheumatoid arthritis can eventually cause joint damage and deformities.

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of arthritis

Being able to recognize arthritis symptoms can help you or a loved one work with your primary care doctor to diagnose early and decide on a plan for managing. Osteoarthritis often affects joints in the hands, spine, knees, and hips. The pain is typically aggravated by activity and relieved by rest. Other warning signs include:

• Stiffness in a joint after getting out of bed or sitting for a while
• Swelling in one or more joints
• A cracking or creaking feeling, or a sound of bone on bone

Diagnosing arthritis

If you’re experiencing persistent joint pain or any of the symptoms mentioned above, it’s a good idea to make an appointment with your primary care doctor to have a conversation about how you feel. According to the Mayo Clinic, several tests can be used to diagnose arthritis, including:

• Physical exam: A healthcare provider will assess the joints for swelling, redness, and warmth. They will also ask questions about daily activities, movement of the joints, and any current symptoms.
• Laboratory tests: A healthcare provider may order blood tests, urine tests, or a test to withdraw and examine joint fluid.
• Imaging: Imaging tests, such as X-rays, CT scans, MRI, or ultrasound, can help a healthcare provider visualize the joint, find any damage, and decide the best treatment options.

Managing joint pain: Treatment options and lifestyle changes

While there is no cure for arthritis, various treatment options and lifestyle changes can help pain management, improve joint function, and enhance overall quality of life. As with any lifestyle change, setting realistic goals is important. It's important to reflect on values, thoughts, and feelings as well as your general mental, physical, and social health.

Medications

Several medications are available to reduce pain and inflammation associated with arthritis. These include:

• Analgesics: Pain relievers that help alleviate pain.
• Corticosteroids: Medications that help block inflammation.
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): These drugs block the production of pain-causing chemicals.
• Counterirritants: Over-the-counter products that irritate nerve endings to distract from the actual pain.
• Other drugs: Antidepressants like duloxetine and anti-seizure drugs like pregabalin may also be prescribed.

Exercise, a natural painkiller

Regular exercise is one of the most effective non-drug treatments for managing pain in people with osteoarthritis. Exercise has many benefits, including decreasing pain and inflammation, improving flexibility and range of motion, lowering body weight, and boosting mood and outlook. It's important to try a variety of activities, including flexibility exercises, aerobic activities, and strength training. Before starting any exercise program, talk to your primary care doctor to find the proper exercises. Low-impact exercises like walking, cycling, or swimming are generally recommended.

Diet and nutrition

Diet can play a significant role in managing inflammation and joint pain. Consuming foods that are commonly part of the Mediterranean diet may help ease arthritis-related inflammation. 

Consider adding the following foods to the diet:

• Fish with omega-3 fatty acids
• Fruits and vegetables
• Olive oil
• Nuts and seeds
• Beans
• Whole grains

Weight management

For seniors who are overweight or obese, losing weight can significantly reduce stress on joints, particularly weight-bearing joints like the hips and knees. Extra weight puts extra pressure on the joints, leading to pain and inflammation. Losing even a small amount of weight, such as 10 to 12 pounds, can make a noticeable difference. The key to controlling body weight is to find a balance between the number of calories consumed and the number of calories burned. Slow and steady weight loss, about one to two pounds per week, is more likely to be sustainable in the long term.

Alternative therapies

Several alternative therapies may help with pain relief. These include:

• Massage
• Acupuncture
• Physical therapy
• Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)
• Yoga, tai chi, and meditation

Joint surgery

In severe cases of joint pain, a doctor may recommend joint surgery. Surgical options include:

• Arthroscopy: Removal of any floating pieces of bone or other debris.
• Osteotomy: A joint preservation technique to reposition the bones to help improve joint alignment and stability.
• Joint resurfacing: Smoothing out the bone to improve movement.
• Joint replacement: Replacing a worn-out joint with a man-made version, called a prosthesis or implant.

Living with joint pain can be challenging, but it doesn't have to define you or a loved one’s life. By understanding the basics of arthritis, recognizing the symptoms, seeking professional evaluation, and making lifestyle changes, seniors can find relief from joint pain and improve their overall well-being.

Disclaimers:

Content contained on this page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new fitness or dietary plans. References are provided for informational purposes only and do not imply endorsement of any website or other sources. For any health-related questions, contact your healthcare provider.

Sources:

• “Self-Care for Arthritis: Five Ways to Manage Your Symptoms,” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, last accessed on May 29, 2025 https://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/basics/management.htm
• Linda Rath, “What is Arthritis,” Arthritis Foundation, last accessed on May 29, 2025
• https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/about-arthritis/understanding-arthritis/what-is-arthritis
• Sandhya Pruthi, M.D., “Arthritis," Mayo Clinic, May 29, 2025
• https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/arthritis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350777
• “Osteoarthritis,” National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, last accessed on May 29, 2025, https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/osteoarthritis
• Linda Antinoro, R.D., L.D.N., J.D., C.D.E., “Can diet improve arthritis symptoms?” Harvard Health, last accessed on May 29, 2025 http://www.health.harvard.edu/nutrition/can-diet-improve-arthritis-symptoms