Arthritis Specialist

What is arthritis?

Arthritis is a chronic condition marked by joint swelling, stiffness, and tenderness. It often shows up as you get older but can happen after an injury or even during childhood. Arthritis symptoms can be mild to severe, even crippling. Treatment helps restore your quality of life.

What are the symptoms of arthritis?

Common symptoms of arthritis include:

• Joint pain
• Stiffness
• Swelling
• Tenderness
• Redness
• Warmth
• Decreased range of motion
• Reduced mobility

Arthritis can affect your spine, shoulders, wrists, hips, knees, ankles, fingers, and toes. If it’s severe or restricts you from enjoying your favorite activities, see the experts at Albuquerque Associated Podiatrists for an evaluation.

What are the risk factors for arthritis?

While arthritis can happen to anyone, the following things increase your risk of developing it:

• Older age
• Family history of arthritis
• Previous joint injuries
• Obesity
• Poor dietary habits
• Lack of physical activity

Arthritis that affects weight-bearing joints can prevent you from walking comfortably and staying physically active. Severe forms of the disease can deform or twist joints.

How is arthritis diagnosed?

To diagnose arthritis, your podiatrist reviews your medical history and symptoms. They examine painful joints and can also do blood, urine, and/or joint fluid tests. Imaging procedures your doctor can use include X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, and ultrasound.

How is arthritis treated?

Depending on the type of arthritis you have, your symptoms, and their severity, your Albuquerque Associated Podiatrists specialist could recommend:

Lifestyle changes

Lifestyle changes that can relieve arthritis pain include weight loss if you’re overweight, healthy eating, dietary supplements, massage, regular exercise, and applying heat or ice to the affected joints.

Physical therapy

Physical therapy is a natural way to relieve arthritis pain, increase strength, and improve range of motion in your joints. Your podiatrist shows you which exercises and stretches can most benefit your condition.

Anti-inflammatory medications

Taking anti-inflammatory medicines can reduce joint inflammation and discomfort associated with arthritis.

Injections

Steroid, hyaluronic acid, anesthetic, and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections can all help to ease joint pain and inflammation. Your provider might first numb the area so you can avoid discomfort during needle insertion.

Custom orthotics and braces

Wearing custom orthotics (shoe inserts) or braces can reduce pain associated with arthritis, increase your mobility, and lower your risk of injuries.

Don’t live with arthritis discomfort when simple pain-relieving treatments are available at Albuquerque Associated Podiatrists. Schedule an appointment over the phone or online today.