The Truth About Arthritis Treatment No One Talks About

Joint pain, stiffness, and swelling are common struggles that many people ignore until they start interfering with daily life. One of the leading causes behind these symptoms is arthritis, a condition that causes inflammation in the joints and worsens over time if left untreated. Arthritis treatment is essential not just for pain relief but to prevent long-term joint damage and disability. 

In India, over 180 million people suffer from arthritis, and around 14% of the population seeks medical help annually. While it’s often associated with aging, arthritis can affect people of all ages, even children. 

There are different types, like osteoarthritis (wear and tear), rheumatoid arthritis (autoimmune), and more. The good news? With early diagnosis, lifestyle changes, medication, and in some cases, physiotherapy or surgery, arthritis is manageable. In this blog, we’ll explore its types and the best treatments to help you live pain-free.

What Is Arthritis? Types, Causes & Early Symptoms

• Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation in the joints, leading to pain, swelling, and difficulty in movement. It affects people of all ages but is more common in older adults.
• It can involve one joint or multiple joints and may get worse if not treated early.
• Early diagnosis helps manage pain and avoid joint damage.

Common Types of Arthritis In India

Different types of arthritis have varying causes and symptoms. Knowing the type helps choose the right treatment.

1. Osteoarthritis
   • It happens when the cartilage that cushions joints wears away over time.
   • Bones rub against each other, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling, especially in the knees, hips, and hands.
2. Rheumatoid Arthritis
   • An autoimmune disease, where the immune system wrongly attacks healthy joints.
   • It leads to joint inflammation, pain, and can damage joint tissues permanently.
   • It usually starts in the small joints of the hands and feet.
3. Gout
   • Gout is caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints.
   • It leads to sudden and severe pain, often in the big toe.
   • Eating too much red meat, alcohol, or seafood can trigger gout attacks.
4. Psoriatic Arthritis
   • This affects people with psoriasis, a skin condition.
   • It causes joint pain, swelling, and patchy, scaly skin.
   • Fingers and toes may look swollen like sausages (called dactylitis).
   • In some cases, psoriatic arthritis can also affect the spine and cause lower back pain, known as axial arthritis.

Causes & Risk Factors

• Genetics: If your parents or siblings have arthritis, your risk increases.
• Age & Gender: Women and older adults are more likely to develop most forms of arthritis.
• Lifestyle Habits: Poor diet, smoking, and lack of exercise weaken joints.
• Obesity and Joint Strain:  Extra weight adds pressure on joints, especially in knees and hips, making arthritis worse.
• Infections or Injuries: Past joint injuries or infections can trigger certain forms of arthritis by damaging joint tissues.
• Hormonal Imbalances: Hormonal changes, especially in women during menopause, may influence arthritis risk.

Early Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

• Persistent morning stiffness: If your joints feel stiff and painful for more than 30 minutes after waking up, it could be an early sign of arthritis.
• Swelling and redness: Noticeable puffiness or discoloration around your joints may indicate inflammation that shouldn’t be ignored.
• Warmth and tenderness: If a joint feels unusually warm or hurts when touched, it might be reacting to internal inflammation or damage.
  Limited movement or flexibility: Struggling to bend, stretch, or move a joint freely can signal early joint deterioration.
• Pain that increases with use: If your joint pain worsens after walking, climbing stairs, or doing daily tasks, it may be a warning of underlying arthritis.
• Fatigue or general tiredness: Many types of arthritis, especially autoimmune forms like rheumatoid arthritis, can cause ongoing fatigue even before major joint symptoms appear.
• Clicking or grinding sounds: If you hear a crunching or popping sound while moving a joint, it may be due to cartilage breakdown.

Arthritis Meaning In Hindi: वात रोग, गठिया, जोड़ों का प्रदाह

Arthritis Treatment

Medical Treatments For Arthritis In India

The main goal of arthritis treatment is to reduce pain, control inflammation, and improve joint movement. Treatment may vary based on the type and severity of arthritis. Most patients need a combination of medicine, therapy, or surgery, depending on their condition.

Medications Commonly Prescribed

1. Pain Relievers (NSAIDs & Paracetamol)
   • NSAIDs like ibuprofen reduce both pain and swelling.
   • Paracetamol helps relieve mild pain but doesn’t reduce inflammation.

Long-term use of NSAIDs may cause stomach issues or kidney concerns, so regular check-ups are important.

2. Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (DMARDs)
   • Used mostly for rheumatoid arthritis.
   • Slows down the disease by targeting the immune system.

These drugs may take weeks to show results and require regular monitoring of liver and blood counts.

3. Steroids & Biologics
   • Steroids reduce swelling quickly but are used short term.
   • Biologics are advanced drugs used when other treatments fail. They are costly but effective.

Biologics are often given via injection or IV infusion and may increase the risk of infections.

When Is Surgery Recommended?

Knee or Hip Replacement

• Surgery is usually considered when arthritis pain becomes severe and starts affecting your ability to walk, climb stairs, or perform daily activities. 
• In such cases, joint replacement surgery, especially for the knee or hip, can offer significant relief. 
• The damaged joint is replaced with a metal or plastic implant that mimics natural joint movement.
• Alternative surgeries: In some cases, arthroscopy (for mild joint damage) or osteotomy (bone reshaping) may be considered before full joint replacement.

Risks, Costs, and Recovery in India: Joint replacement is commonly performed in older adults, with high success rates.

• Recovery time is typically between 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the patient’s age, health, and physiotherapy.
• In India, surgery costs range from ₹1.5 to ₹3 lakhs, varying by city and hospital quality.
• While the procedure is generally safe, risks include infection, stiffness, blood clots, or delayed healing. With expert care, most patients recover well and regain mobility.
• Insurance Tip: Many health insurance plans in India cover joint replacement surgeries partially or fully. It’s advisable to check with your provider. With expert care, most patients recover well and regain mobility.

Best Rheumatologists And Clinics In India

India has some of the top arthritis specialists and hospitals for diagnosis and treatment:

• Top Hospitals:
  • AIIMS, Delhi
  • CMC, Vellore
  • Apollo Hospitals (Delhi, Chennai, Hyderabad)
  • Manipal Hospitals
  • Fortis Healthcare
  • Max Healthcare
    
• Leading Rheumatologists:
  • Dr. Ashok Kumar: Senior specialist, Delhi
  • Dr. Uma Kumar: Head of Rheumatology, AIIMS Delhi
  • Teleconsultation Option: Many leading doctors and hospitals now offer video consultations, making it easier for patients in smaller towns to access expert care.

Types Of Arthritis
There are many types of arthritis. Here are the following:

1. Osteoarthritis
2. Rheumatoid
3. Gout
4. Juvenile idiopathic
5. Psoriatic
6. Reactive
7. Ankylosing spondylitis
8. Septic
9. Thumb

Diet Plan For Arthritis Treatment

Everybody reacts differently to food, so there’s no one-size-fits-all diet for arthritis. If certain items like citrus, rice, or dal worsen your symptoms, it’s best to avoid them. Here’s a general meal plan to guide those with osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis diet plan.

Meal 1/Early Morning Meal	Gilroy juice/ methi water/ wheatgrass juice
Meal 2/Breakfast	Oats cheela/moong dal cheela/vermicelli/oats milk/fruit with milk(avoid citrus fruits)
Meal 3/Mid Morning Snack	Any fruit(except citrus fruit)
Meal 4/Lunch	Oats roti with any vegetable/khichdi(more dal, less rice)
Meal 5/Evening Drink	Ginger turmeric tea/ginger tea
Meal 6/Evening Snack	Roasted makhana/soup
Meal 7/Dinner	Tofu soup, with boiled sweet potato chat, sautéed vegetables, and a bowl of fruits
Meal 8/Post Dinner	Ginger tulsi water

Note:

• People with osteoarthritis should consume milk in their meals as it is good for them.
• Also, for osteoarthritis patients, citrus fruits are healthy. But as few people are allergic to them. Therefore, they should add citrus fruits to their diet plan in a restrictive manner.

Anti-Inflammatory Foods to Include

• Seasonal vegetables like spinach, lauki (bottle gourd), and pumpkin are gentle on joints and full of antioxidants.
• Millets like ragi, jowar, and bajra are easier to digest and support joint health.
• Turmeric contains curcumin, a natural anti-inflammatory compound. Add a pinch to your daily meals.
• Omega-3 rich foods such as flaxseeds, walnuts, and fatty fish (like salmon) help reduce joint inflammation.
• Amla (Indian gooseberry) is rich in Vitamin C, supporting collagen production and reducing oxidative stress.

Foods To Avoid That Worsen Arthritis

• Processed and fried foods can increase inflammation and joint stiffness.
• Sugar-laden items such as sweets, cakes, and packaged snacks may worsen swelling.
• Nightshades like tomatoes, brinjal (eggplant), and bell peppers can trigger joint pain in some people. Monitor your response and avoid if necessary.

Natural & Ayurvedic Arthritis Treatments

While modern medicine offers pain relief, many Indians prefer natural and Ayurvedic methods to manage symptoms without side effects. Ayurveda focuses on balancing the body’s energies (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) and reducing inflammation through herbs, oils, and cleansing therapies. 

Popular Ayurvedic Remedies & Panchakarma Therapy

• Ashwagandha: A powerful herb that reduces inflammation and joint pain. It also helps in strengthening bones and calming the nervous system.
• Shallaki (Boswellia): Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, it reduces pain and improves joint flexibility.
• Nirgundi Oil: Commonly used for massaging swollen joints. It helps relieve pain and stiffness.
• Panchakarma Therapy: A full-body detox process in Ayurveda. It removes toxins (Ama) from the body and improves digestion and joint health. This therapy includes oil massages, herbal steam, and enemas.

Home Remedies

• Turmeric Milk (Haldi Doodh): Turmeric contains curcumin, which helps reduce inflammation and joint pain naturally.
• Methi (Fenugreek) Seeds: Soaked overnight or powdered, these seeds reduce swelling and boost joint health.
• Garlic & Sesame Oil Massage: Warm oil massage boosts blood circulation, reduces stiffness, and eases pain in aching joints.

Exercises & Yoga For Arthritis Relief

Regular movement helps ease joint pain, improve flexibility, and boost energy levels for people with arthritis. Below are simple exercises and yoga poses that can be done at home.

Low-Impact Exercises You Can Do At Home

These exercises are gentle on the joints and great for people with arthritis. They help improve flexibility, reduce stiffness, and keep your joints active.

1. Walking

• Why it’s helpful: Walking boosts blood flow, keeps joints mobile, and reduces morning stiffness.
• How to do it:
  • Start with a slow 5-minute walk indoors or outdoors.
  • Gradually increase to 15–30 minutes daily.
  • Wear cushioned shoes and walk on even surfaces.

2. Cycling (Stationary Bike)

• Why it’s helpful: Strengthens leg muscles without putting weight on knees or ankles.
• How to do it:
  • Use a stationary bike with back support.
  • Start pedaling at a slow pace for 5–10 minutes.
  • Increase time gradually as your strength improves.

3. Leg Raises

• Why it’s helpful: Strengthens the thigh muscles, supporting knee joints.
• How to do it:
  • Lie on your back or sit on a chair.
  • Slowly lift one leg, hold for 5 seconds, then lower.
  • Do 8–10 reps per leg.

4. Chair Stretches

• Why it’s helpful: Improves flexibility and reduces joint tension.
• How to do it:
  • Sit upright in a sturdy chair.
  • Stretch arms overhead or twist gently side to side.
  • Hold each stretch for 10 seconds, repeat 3–5 times.

Best Yoga Asanas For Joint Flexibility

These gentle yoga for arthritis increase flexibility, improve joint strength, and support better posture.

1. Vrikshasana (Tree Pose)

• Why it helps: Strengthens legs, ankles, and improves joint coordination.
• How to do it:
  • Stand straight, shift weight onto one leg.
  • Place the other foot on your inner thigh or calf (avoid the knee).
  • Join hands in a prayer position at the chest or overhead.
  • Balance and hold for 10 seconds, then switch sides.

2. Tadasana (Mountain Pose)

• Why it helps: Improves posture, strengthens knees and back, and promotes balance.
• How to do it:
  • Stand straight with feet together and arms at your sides.
  • Inhale and raise arms overhead.
  • Stretch upward from the waist while keeping heels grounded.
  • Hold for 10–15 seconds, breathing deeply.

3. Setu Bandhasana (Bridge Pose)

• Why it helps: Relieves back pain, strengthens the spine and hips.
• How to do it:
  • Lie on your back, knees bent, feet flat and hip-width apart.
  • Place your arms beside you, palms down.
  • Inhale and lift hips slowly upward, forming a bridge.
  • Hold for 10 seconds, then gently lower.

Safety Tips Before Starting

• Consult your doctor before starting any new routine.
• Start slow and don’t push through pain.
• Use support (like a wall or chair) if needed.
• Warm up before and cool down after exercises.
• Stay hydrated and wear comfortable clothes and shoes.

Moreover, proper care for arthritis involves daily movement, balanced nutrition, and mindful joint protection to ease pain and improve quality of life.

Lifestyle Tips for Long-Term Arthritis Management

Managing arthritis goes beyond just taking medication. Daily lifestyle habits can significantly reduce joint pain, improve flexibility, and support better long-term mobility.

Here are some easy, daily habits that make a big difference.

1. Heat & Cold Therapy

Purpose: Reduces stiffness, swelling, and pain.

• Warm Compress: Use heating pads or warm towels on stiff joints to loosen muscles.
  
• Warm Baths: Taking a warm shower or soaking in a tub in the morning can ease stiffness.
  
• Cold Packs: Apply ice packs after physical activity to reduce swelling or flare-ups.
  
• Timing: Use heat or cold therapy for 15–20 minutes at a time.
  
• Safety Tip: Always place a cloth between your skin and the hot/cold source to prevent burns or frostbite.

Extra Tip: Heat therapy is better for chronic pain; cold is better for acute flare-ups.

2. Use of Support Aids (Braces, Canes, Orthotics)

Purpose: Reduces strain on joints and helps maintain independence.

• Braces & Splints: Provide extra support for weak or painful joints (commonly wrists, knees, or ankles).
  
• Walking Sticks or Canes: Help with balance and offload pressure from knees or hips.
  
• Shoe Inserts (Orthotics): Help align your body and improve walking comfort.
  
• Consultation: Get personalized fitting and usage advice from a physiotherapist.
  
• Mindset: Using aids is not a weakness, it’s smart prevention against further joint damage and falls.

3. Sleep & Stress Management

Purpose: Supports joint repair, pain tolerance, and emotional well-being.

• Good Sleep Hygiene:
  
  • Stick to a fixed bedtime routine.
    
  • Avoid caffeine or screen time at night.
    
  • Use a supportive mattress and pillow for joint comfort.
    
• Mind-Body Practices:
  
  • Try yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises to ease muscle tension.
    
  • Listening to calming music or guided sleep meditations can help reduce anxiety.
    
• Stress = More Inflammation: Chronic stress worsens inflammation and pain levels.

Extra Tip: Low mood and poor sleep often go hand-in-hand with arthritis pain. Seeking support from a counselor or joining a patient support group may help manage the emotional burden.

4. Gentle Movement & Physical Activity

Purpose: Keeps joints flexible, strengthens muscles, and boosts mood.

• Choose low-impact exercises: walking, swimming, cycling, tai chi.
  
• Aim for 30 minutes/day, 5 days a week (can be broken into 10-min sessions).
  
• Avoid overdoing: Rest if you feel joint swelling or extreme fatigue.
  
• Consult a physiotherapist to create a personalized arthritis-safe routine.

A Quick Summary

Arthritis is a joint condition marked by inflammation, pain, and reduced mobility. It can affect one or multiple joints and is common among older adults. Early signs include stiffness, swelling, and joint tenderness. Timely diagnosis helps avoid long-term joint damage.

Why Does Arthritis Occur?

The causes vary depending on the type but include genetics, age, autoimmune responses, and lifestyle habits. Excess body weight, poor diet, and lack of movement also strain the joints.

Types of Arthritis

• Osteoarthritis: Cartilage wears down; bones rub together.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: The Immune system attacks healthy joints.
• Gout: Uric acid crystals build up, causing sharp joint pain.
• Psoriatic Arthritis: Linked with psoriasis, causes joint swelling and skin changes.

Early Signs to Watch

• Morning stiffness over 30 minutes
• Warm, red, swollen joints
• Pain during regular movement
• Reduced flexibility

Diet Plan for Arthritis Treatment

• Avoid citrus if reactive.
• Prefer oats, soups, makhana, khichdi, and ginger tea.
• Osteoarthritis patients can include milk and citrus in moderation

How to Manage Arthritis

• Medical Treatments: NSAIDs, DMARDs, steroids, and biologics reduce pain and inflammation. Surgery, like knee or hip replacement, is advised in severe cases.
• Natural Remedies: Ayurvedic herbs like Ashwagandha and oils like Nirgundi help ease symptoms.
• Diet: Avoid trigger foods and follow a balanced anti-inflammatory diet.
• Exercise & Yoga: Try walking, leg lifts, or asanas like Tadasana and Vrikshasana.
• Lifestyle Tips: Use heat/cold therapy, joint supports, and practice stress reduction techniques like meditation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Arthritis Pain Stop?

Arthritis pain may not fully stop, but it can be managed effectively with the right treatment, lifestyle changes, and medication to reduce inflammation and improve joint function.

How Do I Manage My Arthritis?

Manage arthritis by staying active, eating anti-inflammatory foods, maintaining a healthy weight, using prescribed medications, practicing gentle exercises like yoga, and applying heat or cold to relieve joint pain.

What Is The Best Treatment For Arthritis?

The best treatment depends on the type but usually includes anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, joint injections or surgery for severe damage.

At What Age Does Arthritis Start?

Arthritis can start at any age, but it’s most common in people over 40. Some forms, like rheumatoid arthritis, can begin in teens or young adults.

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Disclaimer

This blog was written to help you make healthy and better food choices. So, be aware and take care. The vital thing to consider is your health before starting a restrictive diet. Therefore, before starting, always seek advice from a doctor/dietitian if you have any concerns.