Spring is here and with it comes the perfect weather to be outside and go for a walk, jog, or bike ride.However, just as you start taking those first steps or pedals, you feel a sharp pain in your joint(s). There it is again, that painful flareup of arthritis in your joints.Often, we may associate arthritis with age or a past injury, but it could be related to something else entirely. It maybe a complication from Lyme Disease.
A Closer Look at Lyme Disease and Arthritis
When it comes to Lyme induced arthritis, it is important to understand the facts and statistics that are surrounded with it and the complications it may bring.
- About 60% of people who are infected with Lyme develop arthritis unless they receive antibiotics.-Harvard Medical School
- People who do not receive prompt treatment for Lyme arthritis are at risk of developing permanent joint damage.- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC)
- In the United States, Lyme arthritis is the most common feature of late-stage infection with the tick-borne spirochete, Borrelia burgdorferi, usually beginning months after the initial tick bite.-National Library of Medicine (NIH)
With roughly 60% of Lyme infected individuals developing arthritis and the possibly of permanent joint damage, it is imperative that Lyme be detected and treated as soon as possible to ensure the overall benefit of your health.
Effective Medical Treatments
When it comes to treating Lyme induced arthritis, the main treatment is antibiotics to tackle Lyme head on. However, there are ways to help alleviate the symptoms of Lyme induced arthritis. These include, but are not limited to the following.
- Over the counter medication (ex. Ibuprofen)
- Topical ointments and/or creams
- Stretches and/or joint exercises
- Vitamins and/or supplements
As with any treatment plan, it is important to talk to your doctor or a health care professional to see what options will work best for you.
Tips and Tricks to Prevent Lyme Disease
Here are some tips and tricks to help prevent yourself from getting Lyme Disease. These include, but are not limited to the following:
- Checking hard to reach places and crevices (ex. Armpits, behind knee, groin, etc.)
- Taking a shower or bath after being outside
- Wearing long sleeve shirts and pants or leggings
- Avoiding mulched areas and tall grass
- Putting on insect repellent before going outside
These are a few, but very effective ways in which you can decrease your chances of contracting Lyme Disease and its coinfections and complications such as arthritis.
Conclusion
Arthritis can be a real pain, but it doesn’t have to be. With the proper treatment plan and diagnoses, you can be on your way to living a pain free life.Here at Premier Health and Holistic Medicine, Dr. Robin Ridinger personalizes treatment plans that fit your needs. With over 30 years of medical experience in family medicine and functional medicine, Dr.Ridinger ensures that you get quality care and treatment for all your health-related needs.So, if you’re ready to live a life free of arthritis pain,then call or visit our website to schedule an appointment with Dr. Ridinger today!
Phone #: (703) 857-4280
Website: https://www.premierhealthandholisticmedicine.com/contact/
