What are the common causes of arthritis?
Arthritis is a broad term that describes many forms of joint inflammation. In fact, roughly 200 types of arthritis exist, but some are more common than others.
If you struggle with joint pain, it might be related to:
- Prior trauma or injury, a condition known as posttraumatic arthritis
- Poor diet or decreased kidney function, as with gout
- Severe infection, such as septic arthritis
- Age-related wear and tear or osteoarthritis
Autoimmune disease can lead to arthritis, too, as with rheumatoid arthritis. No matter what’s causing your arthritis, it’s not something to ignore. Poorly managed arthritis can lead to irreversible joint damage and life-long pain issues.
What are the symptoms of arthritis?
The symptoms you have with arthritis almost always include varying degrees of pain.
Arthritis is also known for causing:
- Joint stiffness
- Swelling or inflammation
- Decreased range of motion
- Warmth or redness around the affected joint
These symptoms can become so severe that they affect your sleep, hobbies, and work.
The Glaser Pain Relief Center recommends scheduling a diagnostic evaluation if arthritis is limiting your mobility and you can no longer stay physically active. You can also schedule a consultation if you need help managing chronic arthritis pain.
How is arthritis diagnosed?
Diagnosing arthritis generally begins with a physical exam. Your provider at Glaser Pain Relief Center needs to check your joint’s range of motion, muscle strength, and reflexes. They also look for physical signs of arthritis, such as swelling.
To confirm that you have arthritis and rule out related issues, such as fractures or tendinitis, your doctor may want you to have an X-ray or ultrasound.
In some cases, blood tests to check for inflammatory biomarkers are also necessary.
How is arthritis treated?
The team at Glaser Pain Relief Center proudly offers the most advanced, research-driven arthritis treatments available.
Depending on the type and severity of your arthritis, your treatment plan might include:
- Antiinflammatories and pain relievers
- Physical therapy
- Joint injections
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) & Stem cell therapy
- Viscosupplementation therapy
- Radiofrequency (RF) ablation
The team at Glaser Pain Relief Center focuses on controlling your pain in the long term and reducing your risk for joint deformities and other serious arthritis-related complications.
If you have arthritis, don’t hesitate to get started on treatment at Glaser Pain Relief Center. Book your arthritis exam online or call the office to schedule an appointment over the phone.
