Arthritis Specialist

What are the signs of arthritis?

There are more than 100 different types of arthritis, all of which have unique symptoms and causes. Common signs and symptoms of arthritis include:

• Joint swelling
• Joint pain
• Joint stiffness
• Decreased range of motion

Additional arthritis symptoms may be limited to a single joint or may be felt throughout your body. Symptoms can also come and go and may flare-up when you’re under increased stress, feeling ill, or performing certain activities.

What causes arthritis?

Since there are many types of arthritis, the team classifies arthritis types based on their cause. Categories of arthritis include:

Degenerative Arthritis

Degenerative arthritis is the most common and can also be called osteoarthritis or “wear-and-tear” arthritis. It’s caused by repetitive trauma and overuse and typically presents in a single joint.

Inflammatory Arthritis

Inflammatory arthritis is caused by inflammation typically associated with autoimmune conditions. Types of inflammatory arthritis include rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis.

Infectious Arthritis

Infectious arthritis is caused by any type of infection that attacks your joint. It occurs most often when bacteria enter a joint through a wound in the skin. Infectious arthritis is extremely dangerous and requires immediate medical care.

Metabolic Arthritis

Metabolic arthritis is a complication of gout and calcium pyrophosphate deposition disease (CPPD). Metabolic arthritis occurs when your body deposits metabolic byproducts into your joints that cause pain and disability.

To understand the type of arthritis you have, the team offers a consultation, exam and diagnostic testing.

How is arthritis diagnosed?

Arthritis is diagnosed following a consultation, physical exam, and any necessary additional testing. The team focuses their questions on your symptoms, how long you’ve had them, and when they flare up. Your exam includes range of motion and orthopedic testing of all of the involved joints.

If the team at Bahri Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Clinic suspects a cause other than wear-and-tear, you may have additional testing performed, including X-rays, an MRI, or blood work. Based on their findings, the team explains your diagnosis and recommends treatment.

How is arthritis treated?

Treatment for arthritis aims to reduce joint pain and improve the function of your joints. The team begins with conservative care, including physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and lifestyle changes – including eliminating foods that trigger gout, if needed.

In more severe cases, joint injections or arthroscopic surgery may be needed to reduce inflammation or remove damaged tissues from the joint. As a final option for severe cases, the team offers joint replacement.

To set up a visit, call or book online at Bahri Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Clinic today.