Arthritis in North Carolina

Arthritis has been observed for thousands of years, with evidence of joint degeneration found in Egyptian mummies and early skeletal remains. Ancient Greek and Roman physicians described symptoms of gout and rheumatism, offering treatments that ranged from dietary changes to herbal poultices. In the Middle Ages, arthritis was often attributed to imbalances in bodily humors, treated with bloodletting or topical applications. Modern understanding of arthritis developed in the 19th century, when medicine distinguished between osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. The 20th century brought pharmacological advances but also recognition of the value of physical therapy, exercise, and manual care. Today, conservative management emphasizes maintaining joint function through careful mobility training, nutrition, pain management, and non-invasive support, aiming to improve daily resilience without overwhelming sensitive joints.