Arthritis Specialist

What is arthritis?

Arthritis is just a name for inflammation in one or more joint that usually occurs as you age and gets worse over time, leading to stiffness and pain. The two main types of arthritis are:

• Osteoarthritis - when the hard, slippery tissue that cushions your joints, called cartilage, begins to wear away
• Rheumatoid arthritis - an autoimmune disorder that targets synovium, the tissue in the lining of your joints

Gout, another very common form of arthritis, is caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in your joints. An infection or diseases like lupus and psoriasis can cause other forms of arthritis.

What are the symptoms of arthritis?

Arthritis usually involves:

• Pain in the afflicted joint
• Stiffness
• Visible swelling
• Redness
• Decreased range of motion or weakness

Your symptoms may vary based on what type of arthritis you have, but the majority of cases of arthritis involve these general symptoms. Rheumatoid arthritis may also include symptoms like:

• Loss of appetite
• Low-grade fever
• Fatigue

While psoriatic arthritis can present symptoms like:

• Sausage-like swelling of the fingers, toes, or both
• Pain in your heel or sole of your foot
• Lower back pain

Psoriatic arthritis spreads to each part of your body as psoriasis affects it.

Who is most at risk of arthritis?

Certain risk factors can increase your chances of getting arthritis, including:

• Family history of arthritis
• Age, your risk increases as you get older
• Gender - men are more likely to get gout, while women are more likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis
• Previous joint injury
• Obesity

In general, joints that are under an unusual amount of stress or are overused are more likely to develop arthritis.

What is the treatment for arthritis?

At Silverstein Medical, arthritis treatment focuses on managing your symptoms, making you comfortable, and helping you to recover your range of motion. Typically, treatment for arthritis involves medications like analgesics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and various other drugs designed to soothe your joints. Sometimes physical therapy can also be helpful, especially for regaining your range of motion.

If you’re interested in learning more about arthritis treatment, call Silverstein Medical today and make an appointment, or make one online with the online scheduling tool.