Arthritis

What is arthritis?

Arthritis is a term for a group of disorders that cause chronic pain and inflammation in the joints. It is the most common chronic illness in the United States, affecting more than 50 million children and adults, according to the Arthritis Foundation.

What are the symptoms of arthritis?

Symptoms that are common in many types of arthritis include:

• Pain
• Swelling
• Warmth
• Redness
• Stiffness
• Decreased range of motion

There are more than 100 types of arthritis, differentiated by underlying cause, location within the body, presentation of symptoms, and other factors.

What type of arthritis do I have?

If you suffer from painful joints, a comprehensive examination with an expert provider at Pinnacle Health Group can help determine the underlying cause of your pain, and which type of arthritis you may have.

The most common types of arthritis include:

Osteoarthritis

This form of arthritis is caused by mechanical wear and tear on the joints over time, or due to an acute injury. Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis.

Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that attacks the lining of the joint capsule, causing inflammation and pronounced swelling.

Psoriatic arthritis

The autoimmune condition psoriasis, which causes patches of scaly, red inflammation on the skin, is sometimes accompanied by joint inflammation. It often affects the fingers and toes, but can also affect the spine, knees, or other joints.

Lupus

An autoimmune disease that affects internal organs as well as joint tissue. Lupus can cause a variety of symptoms in addition to joint pain, like headaches, fatigue, and rashes.

Gout

Associated with kidney problems and poor diet, gout is the buildup of uric acid crystals within your joint. It most often affects the foot, especially the joints of the big toe.

Determining the type of arthritis ensures you receive the proper treatment for your condition.

What treatments are available for arthritis?

Treatment options for arthritis may include:

• Pain or steroid medications
• Steroid injections
• Heat or cold treatments
• Exercise plans
• Lifestyle changes
• Nutritional counseling

Once your provider has determined the type of arthritis, they will design a custom treatment plan to address your individual needs.

If arthritic pain is preventing you from living life to its fullest, don’t hesitate to call Pinnacle Health Group today, or make an appointment online.

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