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Arthritis

Arthritis is a common condition that causes inflammation, pain, and stiffness in the joints. It affects millions of people and can significantly impact daily life by limiting mobility and reducing overall quality of life. While arthritis is often associated with aging, it can affect people of all ages, including children. There are more than 100 types of arthritis, but the most common forms are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for arthritis can help patients manage their condition and maintain an active lifestyle.

What Causes Arthritis?

Arthritis can develop for a variety of reasons, depending on the type of arthritis. Some of the most common causes include:

  • Osteoarthritis: This is the most common type of arthritis, caused by wear and tear of the joint’s cartilage over time. As the cartilage deteriorates, bones begin to rub against each other, leading to pain and stiffness.
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis: This is an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints, causing inflammation and joint damage.
  • Psoriatic Arthritis: This form of arthritis is linked to psoriasis, a skin condition that causes red, scaly patches. It causes joint pain and inflammation.
  • Gout: Gout is caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to sudden and intense pain, often in the big toe.
  • Infectious Arthritis: A bacterial, viral, or fungal infection in the joint can lead to inflammation and damage.
  • Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Arthritis can develop after an injury, such as a fracture or ligament tear, which damages the joint and leads to accelerated wear and tear.

Symptoms of Arthritis

The symptoms of arthritis vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. Common symptoms include:

  • Joint Pain: Persistent or intermittent pain in the affected joint, which may worsen with activity.
  • Swelling and Tenderness: Inflammation around the joint can cause visible swelling and increased sensitivity to touch.
  • Stiffness: Joints may feel stiff, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
  • Reduced Range of Motion: Difficulty bending, extending, or rotating the joint due to pain and stiffness.
  • Warmth and Redness: Inflamed joints may feel warm and appear red due to increased blood flow to the area.
  • Joint Deformity: In severe cases, chronic inflammation and damage can cause joints to become misaligned or deformed.
  • Fatigue: Inflammatory types of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, can cause overall fatigue and a feeling of malaise.

Diagnosing Arthritis

At Ascent Pain, diagnosing arthritis begins with a thorough medical history and physical examination. Your pain specialist will evaluate the affected joint’s range of motion, strength, and flexibility. Imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI scans, or CT scans may be used to assess joint damage, cartilage loss, and inflammation. Blood tests may also be recommended to check for markers of inflammation or autoimmune activity, which can help diagnose specific types of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout.

Treatment Options for Arthritis

The goal of treating arthritis is to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and improve joint function. At Ascent Pain, we offer a variety of non-surgical and minimally invasive treatments to help patients manage arthritis effectively, including:

  • Corticosteroid Injections: These injections deliver anti-inflammatory medication directly into the affected joint to reduce swelling and relieve pain.
  • Viscosupplementation: Hyaluronic acid injections can improve joint lubrication and cushioning, particularly for osteoarthritis in the knees.
  • Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: PRP uses the patient’s own platelets to promote tissue healing and reduce inflammation.
  • Nerve Blocks: Medication is injected near the affected nerve to block pain signals and provide temporary relief.
  • Radiofrequency Denervation: Heat is used to disable the nerves transmitting pain signals from the joint.
  • Minimally Invasive Surgery: In severe cases, procedures such as joint replacement or arthroscopy may be recommended to restore joint function and relieve pain.

Get Relief from Arthritis Pain Today

If you are struggling with arthritis pain and stiffness, Ascent Pain can help you find relief. Our experienced pain specialists will develop a personalized treatment plan designed to reduce inflammation, restore joint function, and improve your overall quality of life. Don’t let arthritis limit your mobility—schedule a consultation today.

Call Ascent Pain at (504) 249-7576 or fill out our online form to request an appointment and take the first step toward lasting relief.