Do you know what to expect when you go to see your doctor about your arthritis?

It's a good idea to be familiar with the guidelines your doctor should be using. While the guidelines need to be individualized for each person, if you know the basic guidelines you'll be able to ask you doctor for the rationale behind any changes. It's always better to know what to expect; it helps you ask better questions and communicate more effectively with your doctor

Guidelines by the American Pain Society recommend early intervention and aggressive treatment of chronic arthritis pain to try to check the progress of the disease before the person become significant disabled and unable to perform most day to day activities. The suggested progression of treatment is:

*Start with what are called COX-2 selective nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for treating moderate to severe pain, or mild pain if it's accompanied by inflammation

*Use of opioids if the person does not respond to milder drugs.

*Referral for possible surgery as soon as drug therapies are no longer working, to prevent progression of the disease.

In addition to medication treatment, the guidelines call for clients to maintain an ideal body weight and follow a balanced and healthy diet.

A regular exercise program is of the utmost importance in managing chronic arthritis. If you're not able to exercise due to chronic pain, request a referral to a physical therapist or occupational therapist to develop a program that can restore flexibility, range of motion, strength and endurance. It's easy to become frustrated by the inactivity that comes with chronic pain, but a physical therapist can help you find a level of activity that is manageable for you and help slow down the progression of this disease.