Arthritis Specialist

What is arthritis?

Arthritis is a collection of over 100 different diseases that cause joint inflammation and pain. Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis. This degenerative form of the disease develops as the cartilage that coats the bones that meet in a joint wears away. 

Rheumatoid arthritis is another prevalent type of arthritis. It's an autoimmune condition that emerges when your immune system malfunctions and attacks your joints' synovial lining.

Arthritis causes joint pain and stiffness, leading to a reduced range of motion and mobility problems. It can also affect any joint in your body, from your jaw to your spine and toes. 

When should I talk to a doctor about arthritis?

As with many other conditions, the earlier you get a diagnosis and start treatment, the better. If you have persistent joint pain, you should mention it to your physician or make an appointment at Vero Elite Rehab & Orthopedic Surgery. 

Minor joint pain should subside with a few days of rest. If your pain persists or gets worse, you need medical attention. Some forms of arthritis cause painful flare-ups instead of consistent pain. Contact the Vero Elite Rehab & Orthopedic Surgery team if you have any signs of arthritis. 

How is arthritis diagnosed?

The Vero Elite Rehab & Orthopedic Surgery team provides thorough exams and testing to diagnose arthritis. They review your symptoms and medical history before examining your painful joints, feeling for inflammation and deformity. 

Your doctor may also order X-rays and blood tests to confirm your diagnosis or evaluate the extent of your joint damage. 

How is arthritis treated?

The Vero Elite Rehab & Orthopedic Surgery team offers a comprehensive range of arthritis management treatments. Your treatment plan could include:

Medication

Your physician may prescribe anti-inflammatory medication to relieve your joint pain, including over-the-counter and prescription drugs. Reducing the inflammation in your arthritic joints can ease your pain.

Physical therapy

Physical therapy can strengthen the muscles that support your painful joints. Improving the support around an arthritic joint can reduce stress on the joint and relieve your pain.

Joint injections

The Vero Elite Rehab & Orthopedic Surgery team offers various joint injections, including corticosteroids, viscosupplementation, and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy.

Surgery

In severe cases when arthritis has damaged your joint to the point where conservative therapies don't help, you might benefit from a joint replacement. These surgeries remove the damaged tissue from your joint and replace it with metal and plastic prosthetic parts. 

CallVero Elite Rehab & Orthopedic Surgery today or make an appointment online if you have chronic joint pain or other signs of arthritis.