May Is About More Than Flowers
May is National Arthritis Awareness Month, a time to spotlight a condition that affects over 54 million Americans. In St. Louis, where active lifestyles are part of the culture, arthritis can be a frustrating and painful barrier to everyday movement.
At Link Primary Care, we’re committed to helping our patients maintain mobility, reduce pain, and enjoy life—no matter their age or diagnosis.
What Is Arthritis?
Arthritis is not just one disease. It includes over 100 different conditions that affect joints, tissues around the joints, and connective tissue. The most common types include:
- Osteoarthritis (degenerative joint disease)
- Rheumatoid arthritis (autoimmune inflammation)
- Psoriatic arthritis
- Gout
Symptoms of Arthritis
- Joint pain or stiffness
- Swelling or tenderness
- Decreased range of motion
- Morning joint stiffness and pain
These symptoms often appear gradually, and early diagnosis and treatment can prevent permanent damage.
How Link Primary Care Helps Manage Arthritis
Our Direct Primary Care model means you don’t have to wait for help. We offer:
- Same-day appointments for flare-ups
- Unlimited visits for ongoing management
- Individualized care plans based on your lifestyle
- Affordable memberships ($99/month for adults)
Dr. David Bereda and the care team—including medical assistants Annette Copeland and Casey Yehling—provide hands-on support to help you manage pain, stay active, and avoid costly ER visits.
Patient Story: Returning to Gardening
A 62-year-old retired teacher came to Link Primary Care after years of joint pain kept her from her favorite hobby—gardening. With targeted exercises, nutritional support, and anti-inflammatory treatment, she’s now back in her backyard.
“I thought arthritis was just part of getting older. But Link Primary Care helped me feel younger.”
Lifestyle Tips for Joint Health
- Stay physically active—low-impact exercises like walking or swimming help
- Maintain a healthy weight to reduce joint strain
- Use supportive footwear
- Incorporate anti-inflammatory foods like leafy greens, salmon, and turmeric
- Consider prescription medications (like steroid injections) and over-the-counter joint supplements
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the type and severity of arthritis.
- NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
- Corticosteroid medication (pills and direct joint injections)
- Physical therapy
- Dietary modifications
- Rheumatologist referrals for complex diagnoses
Don’t Wait for It to Get Worse
Arthritis is easier to manage when caught early. Whether you’re noticing stiffness or struggling with daily activities, we’re here to help you move with ease.
Schedule a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Jeffrey Davis using the following link:
https://calendly.com/jeffreydavis-linkprimarycare/link-primary-care-meeting
Get more information on our website at linkprimarycare.com
