Arthritis
About Arthritis
Arthritis affects a significant portion of the adult population, with an estimated one in four individuals in the United States experiencing this condition, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. At Advanced Sports Medicine in Nashville, Tennessee, Dr. Jim Johnson, MD, is dedicated to providing effective treatment for conditions that impact the musculoskeletal system, including arthritis.
Dr. Johnson emphasizes safe and nonsurgical approaches, aiming to restore full function and improve your quality of life. If you’re seeking relief from arthritis pain and limitations, don’t hesitate to reach out to Advanced Sports Medicine. Schedule an appointment today to learn more about your treatment options and take the first step toward a more active and fulfilling lifestyle.
Arthritis is an umbrella term encompassing over 100 diseases that lead to joint inflammation. These conditions can stem from a variety of factors, including degenerative processes, autoimmune diseases, and infections. Accurately identifying the specific type of arthritis you have is crucial for tailoring an effective treatment plan.
Unfortunately, arthritis tends to progress with age, making early intervention and proactive management essential for preserving your joint health and overall well-being. Don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance if you suspect you may be experiencing arthritis symptoms.
While there are numerous types of arthritis, several stand out as the most prevalent:
Osteoarthritis (OA): The most common form of degenerative arthritis, OA results from the breakdown of protective cartilage within joints. This leads to bone-on-bone friction, causing inflammation, stiffness, limited range of motion, and pain.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA): An autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system attacks the lining of the joints, causing swelling, pain, and stiffness.
Psoriatic arthritis (PsA): This type of arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes joint inflammation and pain in people with psoriasis.
Gout: A sudden and severe form of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to intense pain, redness, and swelling, often affecting the knees or big toe.
Understanding the different types of arthritis is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. If you suspect you may have arthritis, seeking professional evaluation is important for early intervention and effective management.
The symptoms of arthritis can vary significantly, ranging from mild discomfort to severe pain and disability. The condition can affect a single joint or multiple joints throughout the body. Common signs of arthritis include:
• Morning stiffness: You may experience stiffness in your joints, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
• Redness and visible swelling: The affected joint(s) may appear red and swollen due to inflammation.
• Reduced range of motion: Arthritis can limit your ability to move the affected joint(s) freely.
• Pain that improves with activity: While it may seem counterintuitive, gentle movement often helps alleviate arthritis pain.
It’s important to note that if you have rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or psoriatic arthritis (PsA), which are autoimmune diseases, you might also experience additional symptoms like fever or fatigue, as these affect the entire body. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, consulting a healthcare professional is recommended to obtain a proper diagnosis and discuss treatment options.
While arthritis can affect anyone, certain factors can increase your risk:
• Gender: Women are more likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis (RA), while men are at a higher risk for gout.
• Age: The likelihood of developing arthritis increases as you get older.
• Family History: If you have a family history of arthritis, you may be genetically predisposed to the condition.
• Excess Weight: Carrying extra weight puts additional stress on your joints, increasing your risk of developing arthritis.
• Previous Joint Injury: Prior injuries to a joint can make it more susceptible to developing arthritis in the future.
These risk factors underscore the importance of early intervention in arthritis treatment. By addressing the condition early, you can potentially slow its progression and maintain your joint health for years to come.
Dr. Johnson prioritizes non-surgical approaches to managing your arthritis pain and restoring your joint’s full range of motion. At Advanced Sports Medicine, he may recommend a combination of the following treatments:
• Corticosteroid injections: These injections deliver medication directly to the affected joint, offering targeted pain relief and reducing inflammation.
• Physical therapy: Our skilled therapists guide you through exercises and techniques to improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion in your joints.
• Aquatic therapy: Exercising in water reduces stress on your joints while still providing valuable strength and mobility benefits.
• Muscle-strengthening exercises: These exercises help build the muscles surrounding your joints, providing added support and stability.
• Rehabilitative stretches: Gentle stretching helps improve flexibility and reduce stiffness in the affected joints.
• Massage therapy: Therapeutic massage can help alleviate muscle tension and promote relaxation, contributing to pain relief.
Dr. Johnson’s focus on non-surgical treatments ensures that you receive comprehensive care aimed at improving your quality of life and maintaining your mobility without the need for invasive procedures.
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