Arthritis and Osteoarthritis Specialists
Pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion are among the significant signs of arthritis that have sufferers searching for solutions. Arthritis, a blanket term used for joint inflammation, can result in damage to the cartilage and bones of the foot and ankle. As symptoms develop, they can significantly restrict your ability to easily perform daily activities. Arthritis in your lower joints often causes them to hurt when you try to walk or put weight on them. Arthritic joints can also experience increased pain and swelling after long periods of rest, like sleeping. If you are experiencing joint tenderness upon touch, warmth, pain, and stiffness in your foot and ankle joints, it is time to see a foot and ankle specialist.
Arthritis is Common in Adults
Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis and can affect various joints throughout the body, including the hips, knees, shoulders, and spine. This condition results from joint degeneration, typically seen in older adults, where the cartilage wears away with use. Over time, the space between bones decreases, leading to painful bone-on-bone rubbing. The risk of osteoarthritis increases with factors such as obesity, previous joint injuries, and genetics.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, inflammatory autoimmune disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue and joints, causing damage to bones and cartilage. Over time, RA can lead to joint deformities and significant functional limitations.
Treating Your Arthritis
Treatment for arthritis depends on the type and severity of the condition. Physical therapy is often beneficial in managing arthritis symptoms and can help slow the progression of the disease. For osteoarthritis, lifestyle changes such as weight loss, regular exercise, and stretching can significantly improve symptom relief. For rheumatoid arthritis (RA), therapy is commonly combined with anti-inflammatory medications, steroids, and immunosuppressive drugs. Walking is recommended for all types of arthritis to keep the joints moving, improve flexibility, and enhance bone and overall health.
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to relieve arthritis pain. Surgical options include arthroscopic surgery, fusion surgery, or joint replacement surgery. Arthroscopic surgery is minimally invasive and allows the surgeon to clean the joint, removing bone spurs or cartilage fragments to improve joint function. Fusion surgery is used for severe joint damage, where pins or plates are used to permanently secure two bones together, providing increased stability. Total joint replacement surgery involves removing the damaged bone and cartilage and replacing them with an artificial implant to restore joint function.
Diabetic Foot Conditions
Diabetic foot conditions, such as neuropathy, poor circulation, and infections, are common complications of diabetes. These issues can lead to ulcers, wounds, and even amputations if left untreated. Early detection, proper care, and management are essential to prevent severe outcomes.
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