and is mild on a scale of 1 to 10. Sometimes the onset of pain can be sudden and agonizing and eventually become intense pain. Sometimes individuals report that they cannot stand the rubbing of their joints against bedsheets— leading to restless or sleepless nights. Regardless of the type of pain, arthritis signs and symptoms may persist over time before the individual decides to seek treatment. Too much reliance on self-diagnosis might cause us to mistake early signs of arthritis for an injury or the result of“ too much” activity. Of course, not every joint ache or pain requires that you seek medical care. Wellness or preventative health visits are an excellent opportunity to discuss joint pain with a family doctor or other health-care provider. A doctor will determine if you need a referral to a rheumatologist or other arthritis and related disease specialist. Protecting joint health and / or managing diagnosed arthritis and related conditions may require lifestyle changes such as increased physical activity, healthier diets, medication regimen, and emotional support---all of which require monitoring by a physician.
As Christians, we know that the bible speaks of many illnesses and conditions that Jesus healed on His way to the Cross. For example, in John 5: 1-8, Jesus healed a lame man that had been sick for thirty-eight years. On another occasion, Jesus healed the woman who had been bleeding for 12 years, but no one else had been able to heal her( Luke 8: 43-48).
We know that the Father and His son,
Jesus Christ have power and authority to heal any condition that plagues the human body. Unfortunately, physical healing does not always happen on this side of the journey. However, each person has a responsibility to make healthier choices within their limited choices. Seeking help from those gifted with healing hands is equally important for properly diagnosing, treating, and managing arthritis as“ Giving thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’ s will for you in Christ.”— 1 Thessalonians 5:18
SEEKING HELP THROUGH AVAILABLE RESOURCES
There are many accessible and available resources for education, care and treatment, and support at the local, state, and national levels. Two organizations that can link you with local, state, and national resources are the Arthritis Foundation and the CDC. Visit the CDC website listed below to identify programs proven to improve quality of life for people with arthritis. Both recommended and promising interventions are described, including physical activity and self-management education programs. Many faith organizations also have health and wellness ministries that provide access to health screenings, support groups, and offer linkages to medical care and treatment. More importantly, the HimPower Family strives to be an informed community of caring and loving individuals that encourage and support each other, giving Praise, Honor and Glory to Him. Jude’ s prayer of praise reminds us of the individual
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