Many of these sound healthy, perhaps even logical, but in truth have no real benefit and may lead patients away from proven, effective treatments. Frustration, depression, and even anger frequently harm the patient's willingness to continue with a total treatment program. It is important to discuss these feelings with the physician, nurse, or therapist. Learning that other patients share very similar feelings helps relieve the loneliness. Financial burdens also present a very real obstacle in terms of expensive medications, as well as going to the doctor or therapist.
Some resources are available that a social worker can direct the patient to for help.
It is helpful to realize that arthritic diseases are generally chronic and require long term treatment. Preventing damage before it occurs is much better than trying to correct a problem later. Beginning effective treatment early and continuing all aspects of treatment as prescribed are both vital in the care of arthritis.