Gains on the pain: Developments in osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia
Osteoarthritis is a good news-bad news scenario. The good news? We're staying healthier and living longer than we did in the past, says Henry Ford Macomb rheumatologist Samir Yahia, MD. The bad news?
"Cartilage wears as we age, leading to osteoarthritis, which affects people's lifestyles as they get older," Dr. Yahia adds.
Osteoarthritis commonly affects the lower back, causing spinal stenosis - a narrowing of areas in the spine, which can cause cramping, pain and numbness in the legs and back.
"Osteoarthritis also often affects weight-bearing joints, like the hips and knees," adds Dr. Yahia, who is board certified in both internal medicine and rheumatology. "Right now we don't have specific medications that change the course of osteoarthritis, but we have symptomatic pain control."
While medications can manage pain, Dr. Yahia notes that there are many non-medical steps patients can take to relieve arthritis and its symptoms.
"We encourage healthy eating and avoiding excess weight, which has become a problem in our society," he says. "People are exercising less, sitting behind computers and in front of the TV. Muscles shrink and atrophy, providing less support to the joints, which makes osteoarthritis worse.
"Alternative treatments can also be helpful, including yoga, relaxation techniques and Reiki to boost the immune system. Many supplements, herbal remedies or over-the-counter pain relievers can be helpful as well, but it's important to consult with your doctor first to be sure it won't interact with medication you're currently taking. Blood thinners and medications for high blood pressure, diabetes and kidney disease can all interact with herbal remedies," Dr. Yahia said.
Medications, exercise can ease fibromyalgia symptoms Fibromyalgia is more than just a source of pain - it's also been a cause of frustration for many patients. This chronic condition, which causes fatigue, functional impairment and widespread pain, often went undiagnosed in the past, Dr. Yahia says.
"In many cases, doctors didn't believe the condition existed and would tell patients it was all in their head. Fortunately, there are new developments, including newer drugs approved by the FDA specifically for fibromyalgia, such as Lyrica and Savella, to reduce pain and improve sleep.
"Exercise is as important for fibromyalgia patients as it is for people with osteoarthritis. Get sufficient sleep and exercise, take your prescribed medication and pain medication when needed. Understand the disease. It's important to know nothing bad will happen to your joints. You won't become crippled, deformed or develop problems with your internal organs as you could with rheumatoid arthritis and/or systemic lupus erythematosus."
