Would you be surprised to learn that 1 in 3 people between the ages of 18 and 64 have arthritis? Nader Fahimi, MD, and the team at Elite Orthopedics & Sports Medicine specialize in treating all types of arthritis, using a range of treatments to reduce your pain, keep you moving, and slow down joint damage. When arthritis causes severe joint damage, you can count on their skill and experience in joint replacement surgery. To schedule an exam, call one of the offices in Wayne, Riverdale, and Clifton, New Jersey, or book an appointment online today.
You can develop many types of arthritis, and each has a different cause. Psoriasis, gout, Lyme disease, and lupus can all lead to arthritis, to give you a few examples. You can also develop arthritis after you have a joint infection or suffer an injury.
Of all of the different types, two account for the majority of cases: osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Osteoarthritis develops as articular cartilage gradually degenerates and wears away. Articular cartilage covers the ends of bones, where it ensures smooth movement inside the joint.
As increasing amounts of cartilage disappear and more bone is exposed, the bones grate together. As a result, you end up with joint pain, stiffness, bone spurs, and eventually, inflammation and bone damage.
Rheumatoid arthritis begins when your immune system attacks the synovial tissues that line the joint. The tissues become inflamed, leading to joint pain and stiffness. Without treatment, the inflammation erodes the bones and causes joint deformity.
Osteoarthritis affects the joints on one side of your body. While it typically begins in large, weight-bearing joints like your knees and hips, you can have osteoarthritis in any joint.
Rheumatoid arthritis usually begins in the small joints in your hands and feet, but like osteoarthritis, it can affect any joint. It also develops in the same joint on both sides of your body.
How is arthritis treated?
Elite Orthopedics & Sports Medicine provides comprehensive care for arthritis. Your customized treatment focuses on easing your pain, improving joint movement, and slowing down progressive joint damage.
Getting regular exercise and participating in physical therapy are essential for keeping your joints healthy for as long as possible. After determining the extent of joint damage, the Elite Orthopedics & Sports Medicine team creates an exercise regimen that’s safe for your joints.
People with osteoarthritis may benefit from hyaluronic acid injections. Hyaluronic acid improves lubrication and makes it easier to move.
When conservative treatment doesn’t help or you have severe joint damage, your provider talks with you about joint replacement surgery. The team at Elite Orthopedics & Sports Medicine has extensive training and experience in joint replacement of the shoulders, hips, and knees.
When you have painful, stiff joints, don’t wait to get help for arthritis. Call Elite Orthopedics & Sports Medicine or book an appointment online today.
