Arthritis

What is arthritis?

Arthritis is a broad term for joint pain and inflammation; over 100 different conditions fit into the category. Arthritis is typically degenerative, meaning it worsens over time after setting in gradually. 

Generally, those with arthritis are over the age of 65. However, some types can affect younger adults or even children and adolescents. Age isn’t the only risk factor; you’re also more likely to develop arthritis if you’re overweight or obese. 

The primary symptoms of arthritis are:

• Joint pain
• Stiffness
• Swelling
• Reduced range of motion
• Redness around the joint

Arthritis can also cause joint disfigurement. These symptoms are often more noticeable in the morning than in other portions of the day. 

Which joints does arthritis affect?

You might have arthritis that affects just one joint or many joints within your body. Arthritis commonly impacts joints in your: 

• Hands 
• Fingers wrists 
• Elbows
• Toes 
• Feet
• Ankles 

Arthritis can also impact your knees, shoulders, and hips.

What are the most common types of arthritis?

The experts at Premier Foot and Ankle Center & Elite Upper Extremity and Plastic Surgery can help you manage any of the 100+ types of arthritis. There are a few, however, that stand out as the most prevalent. The two most common forms of arthritis are:

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis causes wear-and-tear damage to the cartilage within your joints over time. Healthy cartilage is soft and smooth, allowing your joints to glide without interruption. When there’s damage from osteoarthritis in a joint, there is no protective layer of cartilage between them, and the bones grind together. 

Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune form of arthritis, meaning it comes from a malfunctioning immune system. 

Your immune system, which usually serves a protective function, damages the inner linings of your joints and causes inflammation. Eventually, rheumatoid arthritis can also wear down the joint cartilage. 

Other types of arthritis are psoriatic arthritis, gout, and ankylosing spondylitis.

How is arthritis treated?

Treatments for arthritis do not cure the disease. Instead, they aim to minimize joint damage and slow the progression so you can maintain the function of the affected joints. 

Your treatment plan for arthritis at Premier Foot and Ankle Center & Elite Upper Extremity and Plastic Surgery may involve a combination of lifestyle changes, medications, and therapies, including:

• Splints
• Pain medications
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Injections
• Biologics 
• Dietary modifications
• Physical therapy
• Exercise
• Joint repair, replacement, or fusion surgery

Although arthritis has no cure, taking part in a treatment plan with multiple approaches can make a major difference in your quality of life. 

The experts at Premier Foot and Ankle Center & Elite Upper Extremity and Plastic Surgery visit with you regularly to evaluate the condition and help you stay on track.

To manage the upper and lower extremity joint pain that accompanies arthritis, call Premier Foot and Ankle Center & Elite Upper Extremity and Plastic Surgery, or schedule an appointment online today.