Arthritis

What is arthritis?

Arthritis is a group of over 100 diseases that cause inflammation and pain in your joints. Osteoarthritis, the degenerative form of the disease, is the most prevalent type, although rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and psoriatic arthritis are also common. 

What causes arthritis?

The different types of arthritis have varying causes. 

For example, osteoarthritis is a gradual, progressive disease that develops as the cartilage that protects your joints wears away. 

Your family history contributes to your risk of the disease, but being overweight, not getting enough exercise, and smoking increases your chances of developing the disease. 

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition. Your immune system malfunctions and attacks the synovial lining of your joints. Over time, rheumatoid arthritis damages the connective tissue and bones in your joints and increases your risk of osteoarthritis.

Gout occurs when you have too much uric acid in your body, and you develop crystallized uric acid deposits in your joints. The condition usually affects your big toe joint, but you can get gout in any joint in your body.

When should I talk to a doctor about arthritis?

Arthritis causes uncomfortable and disruptive symptoms, including:

• Joint pain and stiffness
• Swollen joints
• Reduced range of motion
• Redness 

You should make an appointment with Dr. Maxey if you have any of these symptoms, especially if your condition interferes with your mobility, independence, or quality of life. 

How is arthritis treated?

At Allay Spine and Pain Management, Dr. Maxey offers you a variety of therapies to alleviate your arthritis pain. Following a physical exam and consultation, he creates an individualized, multidisciplinary treatment plan to relieve your pain and heal your joints. 

Depending on your needs, your treatment plan could include:

Medication

Many patients take oral anti-inflammatory medication to reduce swelling in their joints. Dr. Maxey can prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) as well as corticosteroids. 

Joint injections

Dr. Maxey also offers joint injections to deliver medication and lubricating fluids directly into your damaged joint. Joint injections often provide long-lasting pain relief.

Rhizotomy

Rhizotomy is a minimally invasive procedure that uses radiofrequency or laser energy to stop nerves from sending pain signals to your brain. It provides rapid and long-lasting pain relief.

Regenerative medicine

Dr. Maxey also offers regenerative medicine treatments such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and stem cell therapy. Regenerative medicine stimulates your body’s ability to heal itself, resolving the underlying cause of your pain.

Physical therapy

Physical therapy is often an essential part of arthritis treatment. You can strengthen the muscles around your arthritic joints, improve support for the joint, and increase its flexibility. Regular physical activity helps keep your joints supple and healthy. 

If arthritis pain disrupts your life, call Allay Spine and Pain Management today or make an appointment online.