What is arthritis?
Arthritis is not a single disease, but a term used to refer to joint disease or joint pain. There are actually more than 100 types of arthritis and arthritis-related conditions. Even children can be affected, although arthritis usually affects older individuals, and it’s more common in women than men.
Arthritis is marked by inflammation in one or more joints. Various joint components become damaged or irritated, which can be very painful.
Some of the more common types of arthritis include:
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Psoriatic arthritis
- Gout
Lupus and fibromyalgia can be similar to arthritis in symptoms and treatment.
What are the symptoms of arthritis?
Joint pain is the primary symptom of arthritis. Pain can range from mild to severe, nearly constant or intermittent. Everyone has a unique experience of arthritis pain, and some people are better able to adapt than others.
Arthritis also often brings joint stiffness and swelling. The skin around the joint may become red, and you might lose some range of motion.
How is arthritis treated?
Medication may play a role in treating your arthritis. Some drugs work by reducing pain, others help control inflammation, and some do both. Disease-modifying drugs can slow the progression of certain types of arthritis, and biologic response modifiers can alter the way your natural immune response affects arthritis.
Corticosteroids can reduce inflammation, and they’re available via injection or oral medication. Topical applications can also lessen arthritis pain.
Physical therapy and lifestyle modifications are great treatment options for arthritis. Dr. Manocha works with you to create a program of targeted exercises and stretches to ease joint symptoms. Some men and women get impressive outcomes through weight loss, heat/cold therapy, and assistive devices.
Surgical options include joint repair, joint fusion, and joint replacement. Many of these procedures can be done using minimally invasive techniques, which can also deliver a faster recovery and a lower risk of side effects.
Alternative therapies can also help treat arthritis. Acupuncture, massage, tai chi, yoga, and certain supplements can all help you move forward in your treatment plan.
To learn more about these treatment options and find your own customized treatment plan, book a visit with Dr. Manocha online or by phone.
