Arthritis is a condition that leads to inflammation of the joints. The cartilage, which is a tissue that acts as padding between joints, is broken down and as a result, the joint swells up. The two main types are Osteo- and Rheumatoid arthritis. While osteoarthritis can be caused by an injury or an infection, rheumatoid arthritis is caused by an immune system disorder.

Arthritis is a painful condition that can last lifelong and usually gets worse with age. However with treatment, and top foods to manage arthritis pain, quality of life can be improved and the pain can be kept under control.

Ways to Prevent Arthritis
There is no way to permanently cure arthritis. Patients may have to live with this condition for their entire lives. But, as researchers inch closer to the root causes of this condition, various ways to prevent this debilitating disease are being discovered, including top foods to manage arthritis pain. Some of the preventive measures are

• Keeping Yourself Active
  Research has shown that strengthening your thigh muscles can decrease your chances of getting arthritis. Arthritis may occur if your joints are not able to support your weight and so getting regular exercise might improve your chances of never having to deal with the horrible pain caused by arthritis. Individuals experiencing joint pain post-exercise may use cold and hot compresses or pain medications. Aerobic exercises like walking, running, swimming and cycling may also be practiced.
• Keeping Your Weight in Check
  It is a well-known fact that obesity causes aggravation of arthritis. So, in order to prevent arthritis, top foods to manage arthritis pain can be included in your diet. Saturated fats, excess carbohydrates, alcohol and sugar should be excluded.
• Taking Pain Medications
  You can take pain medications to reduce joint inflammation caused by arthritis. Analgesics like Ultram and Tylenol can be used for pain relief.

Diagnosis
Diagnostic techniques for arthritis include

• Physical Examinations
  This involves the physician searching for glands that are swollen, checking your heartbeat and blood pressure, as well as checking your throat and eyes.
• Joint Fluid and Blood Tests
  Your blood may be tested to check for factors indicative of inflammation like high levels of CRP or ESR.
• Imaging Tests
  Scans such as MRI, X-ray and CT scans can be conducted to create clear images of the joints which help the doctor locate and determine the nature of the condition.

Best Foods for Arthritis
Some foods contain anti-inflammatory properties that can provide relief to arthritis patients. It is important to follow a low-fat diet to prevent obesity. Certain foods that can relieve arthritis pain include the following:

• Fresh fruits like bananas, berries, grapes, and apples
• Olive oil and flaxseed oil
• Green vegetables such as broccoli, kale, spinach, and collards
• Vegetables like carrots, onions, and celery
• Spices like turmeric and ginger
• Fish like sardines, tuna, and mackerel
• Whole-grain foods like barley, rice, and oats
• Nuts like almonds, macadamia nuts, and walnuts
• Mineral water and green tea

Arthritis is a painful and chronic condition, but it can be managed by making certain lifestyle changes and with the help of medication and other treatment techniques.