What is arthritis?
Arthritis is a medical condition that causes inflammation in one or more of your joints. This inflammation can cause pain and stiffness that restricts your ability to move. Arthritis can affect any joint in your body, including your hips, knees, and shoulders.
There are over 100 types of arthritis, but the two most common are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Osteoarthritis
This is the most common type of arthritis that occurs most often with age or after an injury. Osteoarthritis involves degeneration of the cartilage that protects the ends of your bones. When this cartilage wears away, your bones may grind against each other.
Rheumatoid arthritis
In this type of arthritis, your body’s immune system attacks the healthy tissues surrounding joints. This attack causes painful inflammation and swelling. Rheumatoid arthritis can become progressively worse, eventually destroying the cartilage and bone within affected joints.
Who is at risk for developing arthritis?
Anyone can get arthritis, but certain factors may increase your susceptibility to this disease. Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are more common in women and older adults. Gout, another type of arthritis, is more common in men.
Aside from age and sex, the following factors may increase your risk of getting arthritis:
- Obesity
- Family history of arthritis
- Previous joint injury
What are the symptoms of arthritis?
Arthritis symptoms may vary depending on the type and severity of your condition. Some of the most common arthritis symptoms include:
- Joint pain
- Joint stiffness
- Redness and swelling in the affected joint
- Decreased range of motion
How does a doctor diagnose and treat arthritis?
First, Dr. Khan performs a physical exam, during which he closely checks your joints for signs of inflammation. She may request lab tests or diagnostic imaging to confirm a diagnosis of arthritis.
If you have arthritis, Dr. Khan discusses your best options for treatment. Depending on your individual circumstances, this may involve medications, physical therapy, or corticosteroid injections. If your condition is severe, she may refer you to an orthopedic surgeon.
If joint pain is limiting your ability to perform daily activities or otherwise affecting your quality of life, call Millennium Park Medical Associates or book an appointment online today.
