Our Choices Newsletters
Wednesday, October 09, 2002
Nurse’s Nook
by
Kathy Dixon
Arthritis
Arthritis is a joint disorder featuring inflammation. A joint is an area of the body where
two different bones meet. A
joint functions to move the body part connected by its bones. Arthritis literally means
inflammation of one or more joint. Arthritis is frequently accompanied by joint pain. Joint
pain is referred to as arthralgia.
Two common types of arthritis are rheumatoid and osteoarthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis
involves inflammation of joints and results from the body’s abnormal attack on the joints.
Osteoarthritis, which is more common, results from long-term wear and tear or previous
injury.
Symptoms include pain and limited function of joints characterized by joint stiffness,
swelling, redness, and warmth. Sometimes nonspecific fever, weight loss, and fatigue may
occur.
Diagnosis is determined by history of symptoms, blood studies, and x-rays.
Treatment is individual, but usually includes non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications,
non-narcotic pain relievers, and rest with moderate exercise. Weight loss is recommended
for persons who are obese. Injectable corticosteroids and physical therapy may also by
recommended. Joint replacement and tendon reconstruction is an alternative for severe
cases.
Arthritis affects nearly 50% of persons over 65 years of age, and affects women more than
men.
There is no cure for arthritis, but with proper care, arthritis sufferers continue to have
good mobility for many years.
ACTIVITIES
Oct. 12th and 13th—Laurel Mall Community Fest
Oct. 16th—Hometown Trip
Oct. 30th—Halloween Party/Anniversary Party
Oct. 31st—Happy Halloween to All!!!!!!
BIRTHDAYS
Oct. 1st—Charlotte P.
Oct. 2nd—Linda K.
Oct. 3rd—Allison F.
Oct. 27th—Bill S.
Oct. 29th—Big Maureen
Oct. 30th—Kathy D.
The Scripture Corner
God didn’t intend salvation to be earned by keeping a set of rules. He gave us rules
to show us that we can’t keep them. The Ten Commandments were given because of
sin until the promise of a Savior was fulfilled in Jesus Christ. Salvation comes by
faith in Christ. Galatians 2:16 says, “know that a man is not justified by observing
the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ.” We need the Holy Spirit living on the inside
of us to do what we can’t do on our own. Even Abraham was justified by faith
because without faith it is impossible to please God according to Hebrews 11:6.
After we receive the Holy Spirit, by believing in Jesus, we are fit to do good
works; through Christ. But before we believe in Jesus God says that our righteous
acts are like “filthy rags” (Isaiah 64:6) We need His cleansing to be seen by God
because He can’t look on sin. It cost Christ everything to pay our sin-debt. Our sin
cost Him His precious blood. Salvation is free for us but costly for God. So accept
His free offer of pardon and turn the control over to Him.
What’s Happening by Rita Sweeney
Sept. 19-Northeast Counseling Services 30th Anniversary Party-It was held at the Valley
Country Club. They served hors d’oeuvres which were delicious. It was so nice to see so
many “old faces”. Bill R.,Steve L.,Paul La.,Carol B. and Rita S. attended and had a
wonderful time. There was music by a harpist and keyboard player. There was a video
presentation of pictures of staff that worked for them through the years. They also had
a few memorials to staff that passed away. Everyone was asked to sign the guestbook and
take a gift. Congratulations Northeast Counseling !!
Sept. 26-Bloomsburg Fair Trip-Even though it rained all day everyone had a good time.
Francis pulled some strings and everyone was admitted free. The gang from Nanticoke
came also. Wendy had an errand from Carol B. who couldn’t come. She wanted taffy.
Francis won at Bingo. Some Members claimed good buys at the church stands for dinner.
If you didn’t go this time, you missed a good trip.
Carol B. and Theresa F. took a trip to the Inner Harbor in Baltimore in August. Carol’s
daughter drove and “Max” went too.
They had a wonderful time.
