Arthritis

What is arthritis?

Arthritis is a general term for diseases causing chronic joint pain. It has numerous forms — over 100 conditions come under the arthritis umbrella. Some cause widespread joint pain, while others affect specific joints. Many forms are rare, but the more common include:

• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Psoriatic arthritis
• Gout
• Septic arthritis

Of these, more people develop osteoarthritis than any other kind.

Why might I get arthritis?

Arthritis has various causes. Infections can trigger septic arthritis, while gout develops when uric acid forms crystals in your joints — typically the big toe, but gout can also affect the knees and other joints. Rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis are autoimmune disorders. They develop when your immune system has a flaw that makes it attack healthy cells.

Osteoarthritis (by far the most common form) develops over decades as wear-and-tear erodes the protective cartilage on the ends of your bones. Without this tough, slippery coating, the bone ends catch and rub together, creating inflammation.

What symptoms might arthritis cause?

Arthritis symptoms vary according to your condition and its severity, but all forms cause long-term or recurring joint pain. Gout attacks are intense, causing hours or days of immense pain and heat before fading away. Autoimmune arthritic conditions can cause problems like fevers and digestive issues.

Osteoarthritis affects many joints, although it’s frequently worse in the hands, hips, and knees. The pain you feel may start as a dull ache but often increases into agonizing flares with reddened skin and swelling. The joints become stiff and may twist into distorted shapes. They’re likely to be weak, and you gradually lose function.

Arthritis symptoms often worsen as the disease progresses. They can be highly disabling, significantly reducing mobility and quality of life.

What treatments help with arthritis?

Although arthritis is incurable, the MPA Direct Primary Care team offers several treatments that help you manage your symptoms. These include:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
• Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
• Lubricating hyaluronic acid injections
• Anti-inflammatory corticosteroid injections
• Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) for autoimmune disorders

The team can also refer you for physical therapy, which can help immensely.

In addition, lifestyle changes are crucial to managing arthritis symptoms. Excess body weight strains the joints, so maintaining a healthy weight is vital. A healthy diet, regular gentle exercise, and reducing stress can also make a significant difference.

Call MPA Direct Primary Care or book an in-person or telehealth appointment online today for expert long-term arthritis care.