Arthritis is a common medical condition affecting millions of adults each year. Individuals with substance use disorder (SUD) may have a higher risk of experiencing psoriatic arthritis, osteoarthritis, and other forms of rheumatism. Driftwood Recovery offers pain management therapy and other services to help clients manage joint pain and inflammation during treatment for substance abuse. The clinical team may provide referrals to outside arthritis treatment centers to ensure clients with severe symptoms receive the best care. Clinicians collaborate closely with clients and primary care physicians to ensure they have access to appropriate pain management services during rehabilitation.
What Is Arthritis Treatment? Exploring the Disease and Its Impact on Joint Health
Arthritis is a disease affecting joint health and function. According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), “There are many different types of arthritis with different causes and treatments.” Multiple factors contribute to the development of arthritis, including genetics, lifestyle, and overall health. Some of the most common symptoms of arthritis include joint pain, heat around the affected areas, and swelling.
During rehabilitation, arthritis may be addressed with prescription medications, physical therapy (PT), and other treatments. Autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, significantly impact the immune system and affect the body’s ability to heal from chronic substance abuse. Driftwood Recovery ensures clients with arthritis can access essential medical services to manage their condition.
Diagnosis and Early Signs of Arthritis
Some of the early signs of arthritis may include:
- Joint stiffness, especially after long periods of sitting still
- Pain or discomfort in specific joints during everyday activities
- Swelling of the joint, especially after being physically active
- Difficulty moving the joint or achieving a previous range of motion
- Joint stiffness or pain during cold weather
- Sensitivity to touch on and around the affected joints
- Rednesses or discoloration on the skin around the joint
- Numbness or tingling caused by tendon inflammation
Individuals with SUD have an increased risk of experiencing multiple forms of arthritis, which may impact the body in different ways. Osteoarthritis is caused by joint wear and tear, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by the immune system attacking joint tissue and causing painful inflammation. Other forms of arthritis also impact bone and joint health. A clinical assessment is necessary to diagnose arthritis and ensure clients receive the best treatment.
Common Types of Arthritis Treated at Driftwood Recovery
Some of the most common types of arthritis addressed during treatment at Driftwood Recovery include:
- Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): A chronic inflammatory disorder generally affecting smaller joints in the hands and feet caused by the immune system targeting tissue around the joints
- Osteoarthritis: A degenerative condition caused by typical wear and tear on joint cartilage
- Gout: A build-up of uric acid in the body that causes swelling, inflammation, and pain in the joints
- Psoriatic Arthritis: A type of arthritis affecting individuals with psoriasis caused by the immune system attacking healthy cells
- Ankylosing Spondylitis: An inflammatory disease that can cause bones to fuse, reducing flexibility and mobility
- Fibromyalgia: A chronic condition leading to widespread body pain and inflammation
- Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR): An inflammatory condition causing pain and stiffness in the neck, upper arms, shoulders, and hips.
Clinicians use comprehensive assessments to ensure clients receive the best treatments for co-occurring arthritis and SUD. Preventative measures, early diagnosis, and medical treatment provide the best outcomes for individuals with arthritis. Clinicians at Driftwood Recovery provide referrals to treatment programs and services where rheumatology specialists and other professionals offer customized arthritis treatment.
Living With Arthritis: Long-Term Management and Care
Pain management techniques are essential for individuals living with arthritis. In instances of degenerative arthritis, people often feel more hopeful about the future if they have long-term plans for managing arthritis symptoms. Driftwood Recovery collaborates with clients to determine what treatment options will provide them with the most relief during rehabilitation and continuing care.
Medications for Arthritis: Reducing Inflammation and Managing Pain With Arthritis Treatment
Over-the-counter and prescription medications reduce inflammation and help people manage pain or discomfort caused by chronic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. Prescription medications often work best alongside other treatments, including physical therapy. Medications may reduce inflammation and give the body time to heal and recover.
Some of the most common medications used to treat arthritis include:
- Corticosteroids
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including ibuprofen
- Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), including leflunomide (Arava)
- Biologics, including Remicade and Humira
Clients can consult with their clinical team and primary care physician to determine whether prescription or over-the-counter medications can effectively relieve the pain caused by arthritis.
Improving Range of Motion and Joint Function With Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is one of the most common treatments for arthritis and often provides the best outcomes. PT strengthens core muscles and encourages proper posture, reducing joint strain. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “Physical activity can help people with arthritis reduce joint pain and improve function and mood.” The added strength and flexibility from staying active and maintaining healthy exercise routines may reduce the pain experienced by individuals with arthritis. Frequent physical activity also improves quality of life and reduces reliance on prescription medications.
Why Choose Driftwood Recovery for Arthritis Treatment in Texas?
The mental health and addiction recovery specialists at Driftwood Recovery have partnered with community pain management programs and private services to ensure clients receive support managing co-occurring health issues during rehabilitation. Clients benefit from in-house pain management services and referrals to experts in rheumatology. Addressing arthritis and treating symptoms allows clients to focus more fully on their recovery from substance use disorder.
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
Contact us
Break the cycle of suffering through surrender.
Contact Driftwood Recovery today to get more information or schedule a tour.