Arthritis Specialists

What is Arthritis?

Arthritis is an umbrella term used to describe a group of diseases that cause swelling or tenderness in your joints. There are more than 100 different types of arthritis, but the two most common are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. 

Rheumatoid arthritis causes your immune system to turn on itself, attacking the lining of your joints known as synovium. 

Osteoarthritis, on the other hand, is a degenerative condition characterized by the deterioration of cartilage, a soft cushion-like substance that pads your joints. As your cartilage wears away, it causes your bones to rub up against one another, causing swelling, stiffness, and pain. 

What are the Symptoms of Arthritis?

The most common symptoms associated with arthritis are joint pain and stiffness that gets worse as you age. Other telltale signs of arthritis include: 

• Swelling
• Redness
• Decreased range of motion
• Body aches

If you have gout or psoriatic arthritis, you might also experience symptoms such as toe pain or visible rashes. 

Who is at Risk of Developing Arthritis?

Arthritis affects people of all ages, races, and genders. However, there are certain factors that may increase your risk, including: 

• Being overweight or obese
• Having a history of joint injuries
• Being middle-aged or older
• Having a family history of arthritis

Your sex also plays a role. For example, clinical studies show men are more likely to suffer from gout while women are more likely to suffer from rheumatoid arthritis. 

How is Arthritis Diagnosed?

To diagnose arthritis, the team at The Woodlands Sports Medicine Centre reviews your medical history and asks you about the symptoms you’re experiencing. Next, they complete a physical exam and check your joints for redness, warmth, or swelling. 

If these steps don’t provide adequate information, they might recommend laboratory testing or diagnostic imaging to pinpoint the underlying cause of your discomfort. 

How Do You Treat Arthritis?

Treatment for arthritis depends on the type of arthritis you have and the severity of your symptoms. 

Whenever possible, The Woodlands Sports Medicine Centre uses evidence-based, noninvasive treatments such as lifestyle changes and physical therapy. Losing weight, eating a healthy, well-balanced diet, and exercising regularly can ease your symptoms and improve your mobility. 

If your pain persists, more invasive treatments might be necessary. The team offers corticosteroid injections to relieve pain.

Additionally, the expert surgeons at The Woodlands Sports Medicine Centre offer anterior total hip replacement. 

To learn more about your treatment options for arthritis, make an appointment at The Woodlands Sports Medicine Centre. Call the office or click the online booking tool today.