What is arthritis?
Arthritis refers to swelling and pain in the joints that often worsens as you get older. You might also experience stiffness and limited range of mobility in the affected joints.
Your joints are found where two bones meet, and a healthy joint has cartilage and fluid cushioning the impact between the two hard bones. Sometimes, there is a loss in these protections or inflammation in the surrounding tissue. Inflammation and bones rubbing together can lead to pain and swelling in your joints.
What are the common symptoms of arthritis?
The types and causes of arthritis are different, but there are some common symptoms that characterize the disease. Joints may be red and swollen and feel painful to use. You may have a fever, experience weight loss, have difficulty breathing, or develop rashes and itching.
It’s important to see Dr. Sandhu for a complete diagnosis as these symptoms can be attributed to other conditions.
What are the different types of arthritis?
There are many different types of arthritis, but some of the most common forms include:
- Rheumatoid arthritis: an autoimmune disorder that causes joints to swell painfully
- Gout: a buildup of uric acid in your blood that causes inflammation
- Osteoarthritis: the most common form; occurs from aging
- Psoriatic arthritis: affects those with psoriasis
According to your symptoms, Dr. Sandhu can diagnose the cause of your arthritis.
What causes arthritis?
Just as there are numerous types of arthritis, there are also many causes:
- Associated conditions
- Age
- Joint injuries
- Genetic mutations
- Autoimmune disorders
- Buildup of uric acid
- Infections
After considering your symptoms and determining the cause of your arthritis, Dr. Sandhu can recommend treatment.
What is the treatment for arthritis?
While there is no cure for arthritis, there are many strategies to manage the pain and discomfort that is typically associated with it. Dr. Sandhu evaluates the cause of your pain and comes up with a plan to help slow the progression of the condition and relieve the soreness of swollen joints.
She develops a plan that may include physical therapy, medications, or injections to eliminate suffering. As with many disorders, early treatment makes a difference.
What can I do to lessen arthritis pain?
You can function as a partner to Dr. Sandhu by using these strategies to improve your pain from arthritis:
- Exercise, but don’t overdo physical activity
- Quit smoking
- Lose weight
- Use good posture
- Avoid repetitive motions
Dr. Sandhu works with you to develop a successful treatment plan to slow arthritis and find joint pain relief. Call or book online for the first step in early intervention.
CALLUS
