August 17, 2020

Most Knee Cracking Is Normal, Expert Says

SUNDAY, Aug. 16, 2020 -- If your knees crack when you walk or run, don't be too worried, an expert says.

"Knee cracking could mean lots of things," said Harshvardhan Singh, assistant professor in the department of physical therapy at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. "If it is painful, then you should see a health care provider."

August 5, 2020

Could the First Drug That Slows Arthritis Be Here?

MONDAY, Aug. 3, 2020 -- There are currently no medications that can slow down the common form of arthritis that strikes aging knees and hips. But a new study suggests a powerful, and expensive, anti-inflammatory drug could potentially do just that.

The drug, called canakinumab (Ilaris), is used for certain rare rheumatic conditions marked by widespread inflammation. They include juvenile idiopathic arthritis, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints.

July 15, 2020

What Jobs Are Toughest on the Knees?

TUESDAY, July 14, 2020 -- Joint replacements for knee osteoarthritis are becoming more common, and now researchers have identified jobs that may lead to one.

Based on a review of 71 studies that included nearly one million workers, the riskiest occupations include agriculture, construction, mining, service jobs and housekeeping. And jobs that demand excessive kneeling, squatting, standing, lifting and climbing stairs all increase your odds.

July 14, 2020

Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment Doesn't Harm Lungs: Study

MONDAY, July 13, 2020 -- Treatment with the immunosuppressant methotrexate does not raise the risk of lung disease among rheumatoid arthritis patients, two new studies claim.

At least 5% to 10% of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients develop interstitial lung disease, which leads to inflammatory changes in lungs that are accompanied by a dry cough and breathing difficulties.

June 29, 2020

Started Early, Drug Combo Eases Fatigue of Rheumatoid Arthritis: Study

FRIDAY, June 26, 2020 -- Early and intensive treatment with methotrexate and prednisone can ease fatigue in people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), according to a new study.

RA causes chronically inflamed joints and that inflammation can lead to severe fatigue that isn't relieved by resting, according to the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR).