Arthritis Treatment at Driftwood Recovery: Relieve Pain and Restore Joint Function During Rehab

Arthritis is a chronic condition that causes joint inflammation, stiffness, and painful joints. Many individuals undergoing rehabilitation for substance use disorder also suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and other inflammatory arthritis conditions. At Driftwood Recovery in Texas, we address arthritis pain through a combination of in-house pain management support and referrals to rheumatology specialists.

Our programs provide resources to help relieve arthritis pain, reduce inflammation, and support mobility. Through physical and occupational therapy, medication management, and holistic support, clients can regain strength and manage symptoms during addiction recovery.

What Is Arthritis and How Is It Treated?

According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, arthritis treatment aims to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and prevent joint destruction.

Arthritis is often caused by autoimmune diseases, mechanical wear and tear, or inflammatory processes related to the immune system. In people with substance use disorders, existing joint problems may be worsened by inactivity, weight gain, or chronic stress on the body.

Common Arthritis Symptoms and Early Diagnosis

Early arthritis often presents with:

• Joint pain and stiffness
• Swelling in affected joints
• Musculoskeletal pain
• Limited joint function
• Heat or redness over joints
• Joint space narrowing on imaging

An early diagnosis is essential for effective care. Blood tests, imaging, and physical evaluations help identify early rheumatoid arthritis, joint damage, or immune activity such as T cell activation, B cells, or elevated tumor necrosis factor.

Types of Arthritis Addressed at Driftwood Recovery

We coordinate care for clients managing:

• Rheumatoid arthritis – An autoimmune condition causing joint destruction and deformity, particularly in RA patients
• Psoriatic arthritis – A chronic condition affecting those with psoriasis, linked to inflammatory bowel disease
• Severe rheumatoid arthritis – May lead to joint fusion, joint surgery, or total joint replacement
• Gout, ankylosing spondylitis, fibromyalgia, and other rheumatic diseases
• Interstitial lung disease – Sometimes associated with RA patients and requiring multidisciplinary care

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Medications for Arthritis Pain Relief

We help clients manage arthritis symptoms with anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and other treatment options.

Medications commonly used include:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen to ease pain
• Corticosteroids for rapid pain relief
• Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) to prevent joint destruction
• Biologic agents like Humira, targeting tumor necrosis factor
• Antimalarial drug options for immune response regulation
• Intravenous infusion therapies for severe pain
• Proton pump inhibitors may also be prescribed to protect the stomach lining from stomach acid caused by NSAID use

We also support folic acid supplementation, which can counteract some side effects of methotrexate, a common DMARD.

Physical and Occupational Therapy for Arthritis Management

Both physical therapy and occupational therapy are essential in restoring joint function and mobility.

• A physical therapist helps clients strengthen muscles, increase flexibility, and reduce stiffness
• An occupational therapist supports adaptations to daily routines and tools that relieve pain and improve functionality

These therapies effectively treat joint stiffness and improve quality of life through lifestyle changes and active care.

When Surgery Becomes Necessary

In severe cases, clients may be referred for:

• Joint replacement with an artificial joint
• Joint fusion procedures
• Joint surgery for structurally damaged joints

Driftwood coordinates with orthopedic and rheumatology specialists to ensure continuity of care during and after treatment.

Managing Arthritis During Substance Use Recovery

Clients recovering from substance abuse often face overlapping health issues. The risk factors for joint damage, immune dysregulation, and chronic inflammation are amplified by prolonged drug or alcohol use.

At Driftwood Recovery, we offer:

• In-house pain management consultations
• Medication coordination with your primary care and rheumatology teams
• Referrals to joint specialists for total joint replacement, advanced diagnostics, or targeted biologics
• Support for managing conditions like developing lymphoma, congestive heart failure, or bone erosion that may be linked to immunosuppressive drugs

Why Choose Driftwood Recovery for Arthritis Treatment in Texas?

Our holistic, client-focused care model ensures that patients suffering from co-occurring arthritis and addiction receive comprehensive support. We tailor every treatment plan with the guidance of our interdisciplinary team.

Whether through regular blood tests, medication management, or supportive therapies, we help clients manage arthritis symptoms while staying focused on recovery goals. 

Arthritis is a common inflammatory disorder that may impact a person’s ability to function. The effects of chronic substance abuse can worsen arthritis symptoms. To learn more about how Driftwood Recovery treats arthritis and other chronic conditions during rehabilitation, call our office today at (512) 759-8330