Our joints are like well-oiled machines. They allow us to move and function freely, and we barely give them a second thought. However, like any machine, joints can wear out over time, leading to pain and stiffness. This is especially true as we age, but joint pain can affect people of all ages.
Why Do Joints Hurt?
Joints act as connectors where two bones converge, facilitating our ability to flex and move. Occasionally, discomfort or aching might be felt in these regions. Such joint discomfort can hinder your daily activities, making movements strenuous and sore. Various reasons, ranging from injuries and excessive strain to specific health issues like arthritis, can trigger joint pain.
Deciphering Arthritis
Arthritis denotes the inflammation occurring within the joints. While any joint can be affected, it’s predominantly seen in the hands, knees, hips, and back. Numerous arthritis variants exist, with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis being the most prevalent.
The root cause for many arthritis forms remains a mystery. Yet, certain elements might elevate the likelihood of contracting arthritis. These encompass age, gender, genetic predisposition, past traumas, and body mass.
Indicators
Arthritis manifestations can diverge based on their kind and intensity. Here’s a glimpse of typical signs linked to the ailment:
- Aching in the joints
- Rigidity within the joints
- Inflammation of the joints
- Redness and warmth at the joint site
- Limited mobility
How Does Arthritis Affect Mobility?
One of the most common effects of arthritis is reduced joint mobility. This can be caused by inflammation, damage to cartilage, bone spurs, and joint deformities, depending on the type of arthritis.
Reduced joint mobility can have a significant impact on your daily life. Due to this, you can experience difficulty performing simple tasks, such as getting dressed, brushing teeth, bathing, and cooking. It can also make it difficult to participate in activities that you enjoy, such as sports, hobbies, and spending time with loved ones.
Orthopedic Solutions To Improve Your Mobility
Your orthopedic surgeon plays an important role in diagnosing and treating your arthritis or joint pain. Fortunately, there are orthopedic solutions that can help make your recovery journey easier. With the help of your healthcare team, you can create a treatment plan that can help you keep living a pain-free and mobile life.
Early Diagnosis and Treatment
Early diagnosis and treatment of arthritis and joint pain are important to prevent joint damage and improve quality of life. To diagnose arthritis and joint pain, your doctor will ask about your medical history and perform a physical exam. They may also order imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRIs, to get a better look at the affected joints. The sooner you get diagnosed, the sooner you’ll be able to get the medical care you need.
Non-Surgical Treatments
There is a wide variety of non-surgical treatments for arthritis and joint pain that can help manage symptoms, improve function, and prevent further damage to the joints. Some common non-surgical treatments include:
- Medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen (Advil), and prescription medications, such as corticosteroids can be used to reduce inflammation and pain. It also helps slow the progression of arthritis.
- Physical therapy: Physical therapy assists in improving your range of motion, strengthen muscles, and reduce pain using various exercises and programs.
- Injections: Injections of corticosteroids or other medicines can temporarily decrease inflammation and pain in the joints.
Surgical Treatments
Surgical treatments for arthritis and joint pain can be an option for people who have severe symptoms that do not respond to non-surgical treatments. Some common surgical treatments for arthritis and joint pain include:
- Arthroscopy: Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgery that is used to diagnose and treat a variety of joint problems.
- Osteotomy: Osteotomy is a surgery that is used to realign a bone. It is often used to treat arthritis in the knee or hip.
- Joint replacement surgery: Joint replacement surgery is a surgery that is used to replace a damaged joint with an artificial joint. This surgery is often used to treat arthritis in the hip, knee, shoulder, and elbow.
The best surgical treatment for arthritis and joint pain will vary depending on the type and severity of your condition, age, and overall health. Your doctor can help you choose the best surgical treatment for your individual needs.
Orthopedic Clinic in Little Rock, AR
Arthritis and joint pain can be debilitating, but there are a number of treatments available to help manage symptoms and improve function. Both non-surgical and surgical methods can greatly help in managing your joint pain. Talk to your doctor today to figure out what the best solution may be for you.
Looking for an orthopedic clinic near you? Experience quality healthcare as you learn to manage and treat joint pain and arthritis. Dr. William Hefley and his team of qualified healthcare professionals in Little Rock, Arkansas, are here to help you live a pain-free life. Dr. William Hefley is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in knee, hip, and shoulder surgery, including treatments for arthritis. We are happy to answer your questions about surgery and recovery – just call (800) 336-2412. You can also book a consultation through the online appointment form.
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