Arthritis
Arthritis Overview
Arthritis refers to joint inflammation, which is a symptom rather than a single diagnosis. The term is commonly used to describe any disorder affecting the joints. There are many types of arthritis, including osteoarthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Osteoarthritis (OA)
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, particularly in older adults. It occurs when cartilage wears down, sometimes causing bones to rub against each other.
Symptoms:
Joint pain ranging from mild to severe
Stiffness, especially in the morning
Swelling and a feeling or sound of bone rubbing on bone
Commonly affected areas:
Hands: Small bony knobs may appear; more common in women after menopause.
Knees: Pain, swelling, and stiffness can make walking or climbing difficult.
Hips: Pain may radiate to the groin, inner thigh, buttocks, or knees.
Spine: Stiffness and pain in the neck or lower back; nerve pressure can cause tingling, numbness, or weakness.
Diagnosis:
Doctors use medical history, physical examination, X-rays, and lab tests.
Source: NIH
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
RA is an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks healthy joint tissue, causing inflammation. It often affects multiple joints at once, commonly the hands, wrists, and knees.
Symptoms:
Pain, aching, or stiffness in multiple joints
Swelling and tenderness
Symmetrical symptoms (same joints on both sides)
Fever, fatigue
Risk Factors:
Age: Can start at any age
Sex: Women are 2–3 times more likely than men
Genetics
Smoking: Increases risk and severity
Obesity: Higher body weight increases risk
Diagnosis and Treatment:
RA is diagnosed through symptom review, physical exams, X-rays, and lab tests. Early diagnosis—within 6 months—is important to slow or stop disease progression. Treatments focus on reducing inflammation and preventing joint damage.
Source: CDC
Book Your Care Appointment Now
"Book your appointment easily with our specialized pain management team. We provide a personalized evaluation and safe, effective treatment plan to help you regain comfort and mobility."