Arthritis and Joint Pain Treatment Fort Lauderdale, FL
For many patients, arthritis and joint pain treatment allow them to return to enjoying their day-to-day activities. If left untreated, arthritis and joint pain can quickly become debilitating or even worsen. If you have arthritis and joint pain, do not hesitate to seek professional treatment.
Arthritis and joint pain treatment is available at Proactive Medical Group in Fort Lauderdale and the surrounding area. We can help attack your pain at the source. Call us today at (954) 938-2843 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.
Understanding Arthritis
Arthritis is a condition in which one or more joints become inflamed and tender. There are over 100 types of arthritis and related conditions, and it can affect patients of all ages, sexes, and races. However, the most common types of arthritis are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
In osteoarthritis, the cartilage (or the hard, slippery tissue covering where the bones form a joint) breaks down. In rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system attacks the joints, starting with the joints' lining.
Osteoarthritis is typically caused by the expected wear-and-tear of the joint's cartilage that comes with age. Alternatively, it may be accelerated by a joint infection or injury. Rheumatoid arthritis, on the other hand, is an autoimmune disorder of unknown cause.
“Arthritis is a condition in which one or more joints becomes inflamed and tender.”
Symptoms of Arthritis
According to Healthline, arthritis is mostly characterized by joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. The condition may also decrease the patient's range of motion and cause redness of the skin around the joint. For many patients, symptoms are worse in the morning than in any other time of day.
In addition to the above, patients with osteoarthritis may experience:
- Bone spurs
- Grating sensation when using the joint
- Loss of flexibility
- Tenderness at the joint
Patients with rheumatoid arthritis may feel fatigued or experience a loss of appetite as a result of the inflammation caused by the immune system's activity. They may also undergo anemia or a slight fever.
“…arthritis is mostly characterized by joint pain, stiffness, and swelling.”
Aggravating Factors of Arthritis
Certain groups are more at risk for arthritis than others. These include:
- Older adults
- Those who are obese
- Those with a family history of arthritis
- Those with previous joint injuries
- Women
Patients with arthritis can avoid aggravating their condition by avoiding any high-impact, repetitive activities (such as running, jumping, et cetera). They should also steer clear of overtreating or undertreating themselves with over-the-counter pain relievers, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Ignoring any arthritis-related emotional distress is also a danger to look out for. Such issues can be exacerbated by smoking or a negative attitude.
“What should I not do if I have arthritis?”
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Untreated Arthritis
If left untreated, arthritis can bring about debilitating consequences. This is especially true for rheumatoid arthritis, as it is a progressive disease — meaning symptoms will typically only get worse. Without professional treatment, rheumatoid arthritis may cause severe damage to the joints and complications in the major organs.
Untreated osteoarthritis can also be detrimental to one's overall quality of life. In addition to chronic pain and fatigue, possible complications include:
- Increased risk of experiencing a fall or injury
- Severe joint pain
- Work limitations
“If left untreated, arthritis can bring about debilitating consequences.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What are the most common types of arthritis?
Q. What are the symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis?
Q. What should I not do if I have arthritis?
Q. What will happen if I do not treat my arthritis?
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Treating Arthritis
Treatment for arthritis includes occupational therapy, medicine, surgery, and more. An occupational therapist can help patients learn easier ways to execute their day-to-day activities while avoiding straining the joints. Medications can help reduce inflammation and improve function. Patients with more severe cases of arthritis may require surgery to restore mobility or joint function — possibly even replacing the joint.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy and relaxation techniques can also help relieve pain while improving patients' emotional and psychological well-being. This, in turn, helps them adjust to any lifestyle changes imposed on them by arthritis. Home remedies, such as heating pads, can also help alleviate relatively minor pains.
“Treatment for arthritis includes occupational therapy, medicine, surgery, and more.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How common is arthritis?
A. Arthritis is very common. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), arthritis affects approximately 54.4 million U.S. adults. This number is expected to get even higher as the population ages.
Q. Can children get arthritis?
A. Yes. Though arthritis affects older adults more often, anyone can develop arthritis. It is crucial to treat arthritis in children right away, as childhood arthritis will permanently damage the affected joint(s).
Q. Can I prevent arthritis?
A. There is no definitive way to prevent arthritis. You can, however, control your risk factors. Maintain a healthy weight, try to avoid activities that will lead to joint injuries, and do not smoke.
Q. How is arthritis diagnosed?
A. Arthritis is typically diagnosed after a thorough physical examination. Proactive Medical Group will check your joints to look for signs of swelling or loss of motion. We may also use X-rays and blood tests to confirm the diagnosis, as they help us distinguish which type of arthritis you have.
Q. Can cracking knuckles cause arthritis?
A. At the moment, there is no definitive evidence that cracking your knuckles can cause arthritis. However, repeatedly injuring a joint or causing it to swell can damage the cartilage. This may lead to osteoarthritis.
Start Feeling Better – Visit Us Today
By visiting us as soon as possible, our team can help get you the professional treatment you need. Instead of waiting around and allowing the symptoms to get worse, we can provide you with treatment options.
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Definition of Medical Terminology
Call Us Today
Do not let arthritis control your life. We at Proactive Medical Group can help. Call us today at 954-938-2843 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.
Helpful Related Links
- American Journal of Medicine. American Journal of Medicine. 2023
- American Medical Association (AMA). American Medical Association (AMA). 2023
- Arthritis Foundation. Arthritis Foundation. 2023
- Health and Human Services Prevention & Wellness. Health and Human Services Prevention & Wellness. 2023
- John Hopkins Medicine Orthopaedic Surgery. John Hopkins Medicine Orthopaedic Surgery. 2023
- National Council on Aging. National Council on Aging. 2023
- Orthopaedic Surgery: Association of American Medical Colleges. Orthopaedic Surgery: Association of American Medical Colleges. 2023
About our business and website security
- Proactive Medical Group was established in 2022.
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- We serve patients from the following cities: Fort Lauderdale, Oakland Park, Wilton Manors, Pompano Beach, and Sea Ranch Lakes
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