Arthritis Specialist

What’s arthritis?

Arthritis is joint inflammation. Characterized by joint pain and stiffness, arthritis can make it hard to continue doing the activities you love and it can affect your quality of life. Nearly 55 million American adults have some type of arthritis, and according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, nearly 24 million have had their activity levels affected by arthritis. 

Healthy joints have cartilage on the ends of the bones, which acts as a protective layer to keep bones from grinding against each other. Your joints have a lining called the synovial membrane that protects the joint and the cartilage. If the cartilage or joint lining is damaged, pain and stiffness will be the result.

What causes arthritis?

Arthritis’ most common forms are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Different types of arthritis have different causes, and they affect your joints in different ways.

Osteoarthritis develops with age. Over the years, the cartilage between your joints suffers wear and tear. If the cartilage is completely worn away, your bones grind together. Osteoarthritis causes stiffness, pain, and restricted movement.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a condition where your body’s immune system attacks the lining of your joints. The synovial membrane becomes inflamed and swollen, causing pain.

Some other risk factors influence the development of arthritis. Family history, joint injury, obesity, age, and gender all play a role. Some types of arthritis run in families. Joint injury can put your joints at risk of further damage, while being obese puts extra strain on your joints.

How’s arthritis treated?

Arthritis is a chronic condition that requires long-term care. Medication, therapy, and lifestyle adjustments can help manage pain and prevent further joint damage. For joints like hips and knees that can be severely affected by arthritis, joint replacement is an option. 

Pain-relieving medications and anti-inflammatory medications can address pain. Lifestyle changes like losing weight if you’re overweight and following a healthy diet can promote joint health. Maintaining an active lifestyle when you have arthritis can help prevent pain.

For compassionate, prompt arthritis care, visit South Coast Family Medical Center. The team is here to help you manage your pain and return to the active life you love. Call the office to learn more about arthritis care today.

Check In