arthritis wellington

Top Arthritis Symptoms Treated in Wellington

Arthritis is a common condition, yet it is frequently underestimated and misunderstood. Many people tend to shrug it off as “just a bit of wear and tear” or chalk it up to aging. In reality, arthritis is far from the usual aches and pains, and it is not an inevitable part of getting old—it has no cure and, without proper medical care, it can lead to permanent disability.

Contrary to popular belief, arthritis is not just one disease: it is an umbrella term for 100 different joint conditions, each with its own set of challenges. Despite their differences, many types of arthritis share common warning signs. It is important to pay attention when your body starts dropping clues and take action right away. The sooner you get treatment, the better your chances of avoiding irreversible joint damage and preserving your mobility and overall quality of life.

Below, you will learn about the common symptoms of arthritis and where to find treatment for it in Wellington, FL.

Joint Pain

Joint pain, also known as arthralgia, is the most common symptom of arthritis. Depending on the type you have, you may experience either a dull ache that is gradual and persistent, or sharp, severe pain out of nowhere. You might feel it in your hands, shoulders, knees, hips, or even your feet, and it can manifest after periods of rest and exercise.

If you are finding yourself constantly reaching for painkillers or skipping activities because of sudden or recurrent attacks of joint pain, it is definitely worth getting checked.

Swelling

Swelling is another hallmark sign of arthritis, and its cause depends on the type of arthritis you are dealing with.

With wear-and-tear arthritis (osteoarthritis), swelling occurs due to friction, which happens when the cushion (cartilage) lining your joints wears down and your bones grind against each other.

With inflammatory types of arthritis like gout and rheumatoid arthritis, your immune system goes into overdrive, mistakenly attacking the tissues in your joints. This triggers an inflammatory response, which is essentially part of your body’s healing mechanism. Inflammation causes the lining of your joints to swell up and produce excess fluid. This buildup of fluid leads to visible swelling around the joint.

Unlike swelling caused by minor injuries, arthritis-related swelling tends to linger or ebb and flow. If the area around a joint looks visibly enlarged or feels puffy for more than three days, and rest and ice do not bring relief, see your healthcare provider to find out its underlying cause.

Stiffness

Stiffness, particularly in the morning or after a long period of inactivity, is another common sign of arthritis.

Like swelling, stiffness related to osteoarthritis (OA) is a result of cartilage damage, while stiffness in inflammatory types of arthritis is due to swelling of the joint lining and excess fluid buildup.

If you find yourself struggling to move a joint, or needing time to loosen it up before you can function normally, it could be a sign that arthritis is at play.

Fatigue

Fatigue is another common symptom of arthritis, albeit lesser-known. Arthritis-related fatigue has a number of potential causes, namely:

  • Sleep deprivation: The nagging pain related to the condition can make restful sleep elusive, leaving you feeling spent the next day.

 

  • Stress: Unrelenting arthritis symptoms can lead to stress, which triggers the release of cortisol and adrenaline. While helpful in short bursts, constant elevation of these hormones can disrupt your natural energy cycle. This results in physical burnout.

 

  • Inflammation: The inflammatory response is an energy-intensive process in itself. Your body requires energy to ward off what it perceives as a potential threat.

 

  • Inactivity: The pain and stiffness associated with arthritis can make movement seem like a tall order. However, without it, your energy levels can take a hit. When you are sedentary, your blood flow slows down. Reduced blood flow deprives your cells of oxygen, which drives your metabolism, a process in which your body turns food into energy.

 

Treatment for Arthritis in Wellington, FL

Arthritis is one of those conditions that you are never meant to tackle alone. You need an expert by your side to help you rein in your symptoms, slow its progression, and maintain your independence.

For top-tier treatment for arthritis in Wellington, FL, partner with us here at Advanced Medical Clinic. Our providers specialize in chronic disease management and have helped countless men and women feel, move, and live better despite their conditions—they can help you, too.

To request an appointment with Dr. Ishan Gunawardene, our board-certified internist, or Shariffa Gunawardene, our board-certified family nurse practitioner, call us at (561) 434-1935. You may also fill out this secure online form.

 

External links:

Living Well With Arthritis in Wellington: A Top Guide

Arthritis impacts many residents in Wellington, FL, in ways that are both visible and hidden. For some, sore joints can make a family walk around Lake Wellington a real challenge. For others, swelling or stiffness may slowly chip away at the activities that make life full. Even the simplest tasks, such as opening a jar or typing on a phone, become tough on certain days. Yet, Wellington is full of resources and opportunities to manage arthritis.

 

With the right approach, you can still enjoy a vibrant and active lifestyle. This guide offers practical tips that work specifically for those living in Wellington with arthritis. You will find insights on daily care, local resources, and ways to feel your best.

Understanding Arthritis in Wellington

Arthritis is not a single disease. It refers to more than 100 joint disorders that cause pain, swelling, and limited motion. The most common kinds are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

 

Each type affects people in different ways, but all can interrupt daily living. Living in Wellington brings unique factors into the equation. The subtropical climate is often mild, but it can be humid in the summer. Some people with arthritis find that changes in humidity and barometric pressure increase their symptoms.

 

Physical activity is easier to maintain with Florida’s sunshine. However, protecting yourself from heat and dehydration is important. Local access to healthcare specialists allows for timely help and tailored treatment plans.

1. Seek Expert Medical Care

Choose a trusted provider with experience in arthritis care. Advanced Medical’s Dr. Ishan Gunawardene and nurse practitioner Shariffa Gunawardene are here to help. Their personalized approach ensures treatment matches your specific symptoms and lifestyle needs.

2. Create a Joint-Friendly Daily Routine

Caring for your joints is something that requires consistent action, and your daily routine has a big effect on your joint pain. Here are some things you can do every day to reduce discomfort:

  • Try to wake up and go to sleep daily at the same times.
  • Gentle stretching each morning reduces stiffness.
  • Take breaks if you do chores that require repetitive motions.

3. Stay Physically Active

Exercise may seem hard when joints are sore, but it is one of the best ways to manage arthritis. Moderate physical activity limits pain, boosts mood, and keeps muscles strong. Aim for at least 150 minutes a week of moderate activity. If you are new to exercise, start with five to ten minutes per day and increase slowly. Many people benefit from low-impact ways to stay active. Some of the best forms of exercise include:

  • Walking
  • Cycling
  • Swimming
  • Yoga
  • Water aerobics

 

Wellington offers indoor pools and community fitness classes to help people with arthritis. You can also ask your healthcare provider or a physical therapist for specific exercises.

4. Focus on Healthy Eating

What you eat can affect inflammation and joint pain. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can support health from the inside out. Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds, have anti-inflammatory effects. Choosing extra virgin olive oil over butter or margarine can also help decrease aches and pains.

 

Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and red meats. These can increase inflammation in some people.

5. Manage Stress Effectively

Chronic pain often increases stress, and stress can worsen arthritis. Mindfulness practices, deep breathing, and meditation help lower stress hormones that may trigger flare-ups. Wellington parks and gardens offer peaceful spaces to relax, stretch, or read a book.

 

Support groups can also reduce anxiety around living with arthritis. Look for arthritis or chronic pain support networks in your area. Talking with others facing similar challenges can make a big difference.

6. Plan for Flare-Ups

Symptoms can get worse with changes in the weather, overexertion, or illness. Make a plan to manage these tough days. Have a list of trusted medications or tools, such as heating pads, wraps, or topical creams, approved by your doctor. On days when movement feels extra hard, focus on gentle stretching rather than avoiding physical activity altogether.

 

Consider simple household modifications. Grab bars, raised toilet seats, and ergonomic kitchen tools reduce the strain on joints and make everyday tasks easier.

7. Use Wellington’s Health Resources

Wellington is home to many resources that can make living with arthritis manageable. Within Wellington, you can find:

  • Physical therapy clinics specializing in arthritis care.
  • Swimming pools with warm water and easy access.
  • Senior centers with classes tailored for people with joint pain.
  • Local pharmacists who can answer questions about medications and supplements.
  • Health and wellness workshops covering nutrition, exercise, and coping strategies.

 

If anything goes wrong, be prepared to go to your trusted primary care physician in Wellington.

8. Engage with Your Community

Staying social is important for mental and physical health. Attend community events to connect with others and prevent isolation. Volunteering, art classes, or joining a book club offer ways to stay engaged without putting excess strain on your joints.

Living Well With Arthritis in Wellington, FL

Arthritis does not have to stop you from living a rewarding life in Wellington. The community is full of resources and support for anyone dealing with joint pain. Focus on medical care, regular movement, healthy eating, stress management, and community engagement. This way, you can manage your symptoms and live well with arthritis in Wellington.

 

If you need guidance, reach out to Advanced Medical’s Dr. Ishan Gunawardene and nurse practitioner Shariffa Gunawardene. Their experience in arthritis care can make a difference in your daily comfort and long-term health. Call (561) 434-1935 today or use our online appointment request form. A better, more comfortable life is possible.

 

The top Wellington family practice looks forward to serving you!

 

 

Sources:

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12061-arthritis

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/arthritis/symptoms-causes/syc-20350772

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/arthritis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350777

Staying Active with Arthritis: Exercise Tips for Wellington Residents

Living with arthritis can often feel like a game of tug-of-war with your body. On one end, the desire to stay active and keep your joints moving is essential for managing the condition. On the other hand, pain and stiffness can sometimes make arthritis exercises less appealing.

However, for people suffering from arthritis, including the residents of Wellington, Florida, the key to winning that game lies in understanding the right exercises that can help manage arthritis symptoms while keeping the body well-tuned.

Let’s discuss the importance of staying active with arthritis and some tips for exercising with arthritis.

Understanding Arthritis and Its Impact

Arthritis is an umbrella term for conditions that affect the joints, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling. It has different forms, but the most common types are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

The effects of arthritis can be far-reaching, impacting not only your mobility but also your mental health, as the condition can be quite debilitating.

Importance of Arthritis Exercises

Exercise is one of the best natural remedies for arthritis. It helps people with arthritis in numerous ways:

Strengthens Muscles Around Joints

Regular physical activity is crucial because it helps keep the muscles around affected joints strong. A stronger muscular framework can better support your joints, reducing their burden and potentially alleviating pain.

Controls Joint Swelling and Pain

Regular arthritis exercises may help control joint swelling and pain, common arthritis symptoms. This benefit is particularly significant since joint pain and swelling often contribute to reduced mobility in people with arthritis.

Improves Mobility and Flexibility

Exercise, especially stretching joints to their full extent, can help maintain and improve flexibility and joint mobility. This improvement can make daily activities easier and less painful for people with arthritis.

Enhances Functional Ability and Psychological Well-being

The benefits of exercise for individuals with arthritis aren’t just physical. Regular physical activity can also improve functional ability, making it easier for people to perform everyday tasks. Exercise has been shown to reduce fatigue, a common issue in people with arthritis, particularly those with rheumatoid arthritis.

Moreover, regular exercise can enhance psychological well-being, helping to combat depression and anxiety that can often accompany chronic conditions like arthritis.

Tips for Exercising with Arthritis

Arthritis can make exercise more challenging, but it shouldn’t stop you from staying active. Here are some detailed tips on how to exercise effectively and safely with arthritis:

Schedule Workouts Wisely

Arthritis symptoms can vary throughout the day, often being worse in the morning when stiffness is most noticeable. To make your workouts more comfortable, schedule them for times when you typically experience less inflammation and pain. This could be later in the day when your joints have had a chance to loosen up.

Use Heat Before Exercise

Applying heat to sore joints or taking a warm shower or bath before exercising can help increase blood flow and relax your muscles, reducing joint stiffness and making your workout more comfortable. A warm pack or heated towel can be used for this purpose.

Warm Up with Gentle Stretches

Warming up prepares your body for exercise by gradually increasing your heart rate and circulation. Start your arthritis workout routine with gentle stretches. Use slow, controlled movements during your warm-up and gradually extend your range of motion. This can help reduce the risk of injury and improve your flexibility.

Progress Slowly

When it comes to exercising with arthritis, slower progression is key. If your joints become warm, red, or painful after activity, it may be a sign that you’re overdoing it. Cut back on intensity or duration and then slowly build up as your body adapts.

Listen to Your Body

It’s crucial to pay attention to your body’s signals. If a movement causes sharp pain or increased discomfort in a joint, don’t force it. This could potentially lead to injury. Instead, modify the exercise or try a different one that doesn’t cause discomfort.

Balance Rest and Exercise

For those with rheumatoid arthritis, balancing rest and exercise is particularly important. During flare-ups, when inflammation, pain, and fatigue are increased, it’s essential to rest more.

However, exercise more when your condition is under control to improve joint function and overall health. Short but frequent rest breaks during activity can be more beneficial than prolonged rest periods.

Arthritis Exercises Within a Comfortable Range of Motion

Always keep your movements within a comfortable range of motion. Overextending your joints can lead to pain and injury. If an exercise or movement causes significant discomfort, stop doing it immediately.

Consult a Professional

If you’re unsure how to adapt exercises to suit your needs, consult a physical therapist. They can provide personalized advice and guidance to ensure you exercise safely and effectively.

Arthritis in Wellington, FL

Taking care of your health should always be a priority, even when managing chronic conditions like arthritis. Regular exercise can play a vital role in maintaining joint health and flexibility, reducing pain, and improving overall quality of life. At Advanced Medical Clinic in Wellington and Royal Palm Beach, Florida, we are committed to helping you manage your arthritis effectively.

Our team, led by internal medicine specialist Dr. Ishan Gunawardene and nurse practitioner Shariffa Gunawardene, is dedicated to providing evidence-based care tailored to your unique condition and needs. We will work with your physical therapist to guide you on safe and effective exercises, monitor your progress, and adjust your plan.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, call us today at (561) 434-1935 or fill out our online appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!