Arthritis is a general term for a group of conditions that cause inflammation and pain in one or more joints. Imagine the smooth surfaces of your joints like a well-oiled machine. In arthritis, the cartilage cushioning these surfaces breaks down, leading to stiffness, swelling, and discomfort.

Symptoms of Arthritis:

• Joint pain: This is the most common symptom, often worse in the mornings or after activity.
• Stiffness: Joints may feel stiff, especially upon waking or after periods of inactivity.
• Swelling: Inflammation can cause the joint to appear puffy or swollen.
• Redness: Inflamed joints may appear red or flushed.
• Decreased range of motion: Arthritis can make it difficult to bend or straighten your joints fully.

While there's no cure for arthritis, various treatments can help manage symptoms and improve your quality of life. These might include:

• Medications: Pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and medications to slow disease progression.
• Physical therapy: Exercises to strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and maintain joint function.
• Therapy modalities: Heat or cold therapy to reduce pain and inflammation.
• Assistive devices: Splints, braces, canes, or walkers to support joints and ease pain.
• Weight management: Losing weight can significantly reduce stress on weight-bearing joints like knees and hips.

Surgery is usually considered a last resort when conservative treatments fail to provide adequate relief. Different types of surgery exist depending on the severity and location of the arthritis. These may include:

• Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive procedure to diagnose and treat joint problems.
• Joint repair: Procedures to repair damaged cartilage or ligaments.
• Joint replacement: Replacing a severely damaged joint with an artificial one.

Recovery time after surgery varies depending on the procedure performed. However, significant improvement in pain and mobility is often achievable.

There are over 100 types of arthritis, each with its cause and symptoms. Some common types include:

• Osteoarthritis: The most common type, caused by wear and tear on the joints.
• Rheumatoid arthritis: An autoimmune disease that attacks the joints.
• Gout: Caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints.
• Psoriatic arthritis: Associated with the skin condition psoriasis.

Arthritis can affect people of all ages, but it's more common in older adults. Certain risk factors like obesity, previous joint injuries, and family history can also increase your susceptibility.

Dr. Nilesh Chaudhari, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in hand, wrist, foot, ankle, and microsurgery, is proud to serve the communities of Pearland, Clear Lake, Friendswood, and Pasadena at Houston Hand and Foot Orthopedics. He offers a comprehensive approach, combining advanced treatment options with personalized care plans.Houston Hand and Foot Orthopedics is consistently rated among the most recommended in the area!

If you're experiencing joint pain or stiffness, don't wait. Scheduling an appointment at Houston Hand and Foot Orthopedics is easy and convenient. Contact Dr. Chaudhari's office today to discuss treatment options that can help you regain an active and pain-free life.

• Phone: (281) 456-4412 or (832) 583-2273 (BONE)
• Fax: (281) 205-8356
• Email: info@handfootortho.com