Orthopaedics - Arthritis

Arthritis

Arthritis is a health condition that affects one or multiple joints of your body.

Stiffness, pain, and inflammation in joints are the main symptoms of arthritis.

It is also known as a rheumatic condition that includes more than 200 joint ailments.

Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis are the most prevalent types of arthritis. The former is an autoimmune disorder that attacks your joints, tissues, and organs. And the latter, osteoarthritis, leads to the breakdown of the cartilage that protects the joints.

To seek treatment, you can look for an orthopedic hospital in Pune. You may also search online for an 'ortho hospital near me'.

What are the symptoms of arthritis?

Some of the common signs and symptoms include the following:

• Pain
• Stiffness
• Redness
• Warmth
• Tenderness
• Swelling
• Restricted movement

What are the causes of arthritis?

Some of the possible causes include:

• Any injury to the joint leading to degenerative arthritis
• Metabolic conditions causing pseudogout and gout
• Immune system disorders, like RA (Rheumatoid Arthritis) and SLE (Lupus)
• Infectious diseases, such as Lyme arthritis 
• Heredity

Most arthritic conditions are due to a combination of various factors. However, in some cases, the causes are not clear and unpredictable.

Some people are likely to be genetically prone to some arthritic problems. Other factors like infection, previous injury, lifestyle, and occupation may combine with the genetic aspects to pose the risks of developing arthritis.

Your diet and food habits may also lead to arthritic conditions. If your diet comprises high quantities of refined sugar and animal-based food, it can aggravate your symptoms.

When should you seek medical help?

If your symptoms are not improving or worsening even after taking medications or if you are experiencing a reduced range of motion, see a doctor at the earliest.

You may look for the best orthopedic specialist in Pune online. Search for an orthopedic specialist near me to find some reliable sources.

Request an appointment at Apollo Spectra Hospitals, Pune, Maharashtra.

Call 18605002244 to book an appointment. 

What are the treatment options for arthritis?

Although there is no specific treatment available for arthritis, your doctor is likely to base the treatment on managing the symptoms. They may try a combination of different treatments to decide on a suitable plan for you.

Medications

Your doctor is likely to prescribe medications based on the type of arthritis you have. Some of the most recommended medicines include the following:

• Pain relievers: Over-the-counter painkillers, such as acetaminophen, may reduce pain. However, it is less likely to work on reducing inflammation. If you have severe pain, your doctor may suggest having opioids. This class of drugs acts on your CNS (central nervous system) to help reduce the pain.
• NSAIDs (Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs): These medications provide relief from both inflammation and pain. Some common NSAIDs include ibuprofen and naproxen.
• Counterirritants: Your doctor may prescribe a pain-relieving ointment or spray to counteract the pain. These topical medications comprise capsaicin or menthol. So, when you apply it, you feel a burning sensation in the affected area. 
• Corticosteroids: These drugs help reduce inflammation and immune response. Your doctor may prescribe oral corticosteroids or in the form of injections. These injections are directly administered to the affected joint.

Surgery

If medications do not help improve your symptoms, your doctor is likely to recommend surgery. Some of the most prescribed surgical treatments include the following:

• Joint repair: During a joint repair surgery, your doctor may use the arthroscopic approach to look at and treat the problems in your joint. It is a minimally invasive procedure.
• Joint replacement: During this procedure, your doctor removes the affected joint and replaces it with a prosthetic device.
• Joint fusion: During fusion surgery, your doctor fuses two joints to form a rigid one.

Request an appointment at Apollo Spectra Hospitals, Pune, Maharashtra.

Call 18605002244 to book an appointment.

Conclusion

Arthritis is a joint condition common among people who are 65 years of age or older. However, it may occur regardless of age and gender. Doctors decide on a treatment plan for arthritis based on the severity of the symptoms and underlying causes. If you are experiencing any signs and symptoms that do not go away with time, you should seek immediate medical attention.