How Do Doctors Treat Arthritis

Getting Ready For Surgery

Here are some tips to help you prepare for surgery:

• Plan for recovery and returning home. During your recovery, which may take days, weeks or even months, you may need help with daily tasks such as cooking and showering. Make sure you have family and/or friends available to help you during this time. If you do not have help available, talk to your doctor about local support services or staying at a rehabilitation centre after surgery.
• You may be required to attend an assessment at the hospital before your surgery. This is a good chance for you to ask questions about your surgery and recovery. Also you may be able to talk to a physiotherapist or occupational therapist about any equipment you may need, such as crutches and handrails in the shower.
• Lose weight if you are overweight.
• Stop smoking.
• Start an exercise program. People with greater fitness and muscle strength usually recover more quickly from surgery. If you have severe pain, you may find water exercise more comfortable. See a physiotherapist for hydrotherapy or contact us to find out more about our warm water exercise classes.
• You will probably need to follow a physiotherapy or exercise program after surgery. Be ready for several weeks or even months of exercise. Remember, the amount of effort you put into your program can make a big difference in how well you recover.

What To Expect At The Doctors Office

You may be seeing various health care providers during your journey to figure out whats causing your symptoms. Its common for people to see their internist/general practitioner, a dermatologist to treat their psoriasis, or other types of doctors to manage specific areas that are causing pain, such as a podiatrist to treat foot pain. However, if you or any of the health care providers you are currently seeing suspect it could be psoriatic arthritis, ask for a referral to a rheumatologist. These doctors specialize in arthritis and have the training to determine whether your joint symptoms are due to PsA or could be something else.

Psoriatic arthritis can be challenging to diagnose for a number of reasons, including:

Meditation Is A Seriously Powerful And Underused Treatment

Most autoimmune disorders react negatively to stress so learning how to manage your day-to-day stress is huge, Dr. Levitan says. In fact, one of the first prescriptions he gives his patients is to download a meditation app and start using it regularly. Personal time and positive self-talk are also important stress reducers, he adds.

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How Do You Treat Rheumatoid Arthritis

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How Often Is Medical Follow

It should be noted that both before and especially after the diagnosis of arthritis, communication with the treating doctor is essential for optimal health.

• This is important from the standpoint of the doctor, so that he/she can be aware of the vagaries of the patient’s symptoms as well as their tolerance to and acceptance of various treatment options.
• It is also important from the standpoint of patients, so that they can be assured that they have an understanding of the diagnosis and how the condition does and might affect them.
• It is also crucial for the safest use of medications.

Regular follow-up with the health care professional for monitoring can be essential for optimal results and is crucial when medications are taken.

• People with many forms of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, can develop certain symptoms that are really warning signs of something occurring in their bodies that is not what the doctor expects to happen.
• These are signs that can also sometimes represent a significant danger. These “rheumatoid warning signs” are reasons to call the doctor so that they can be interpreted in light of the patient’s overall condition.
• When the doctor who is aware of your condition hears of these symptoms, he/she can determine whether or not they are serious and if any action should be taken immediately or in the near future.

Here are some warning signs that warrant contacting the doctor’s office:

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Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy

The platelets in your blood are responsible for clotting when you get cut or are injured, but they also contain properties to help in the healing process. With platelet-rich plasma therapy, your doctor will draw your blood, then use a centrifuge to isolate the healing factors. Your doctor will then inject this extract from your own body back into the area where healing is needed. In the case of arthritis, it could be any joint, particularly in the hips and knees PRP can also be used to treat tendonitis, ligament injuries, and joint sprains.

Living With Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a lifelong disease. When its treated, it may go away for a little while, but it usually comes back. Its important to see your doctor as soon as symptoms begin. The earlier you start treatment, the better your outcome. Some of the damage from RA is irreversible, so finding the disease and treating it early is very important.

If left untreated, RA can cause other health problems. Your hands may become bent or twisted. Other joints can become deformed. Inflammation will affect your cartilage and bones. Lung and heart problems also can occur. Talk to your doctor if you notice any new symptoms or problems.

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Complete Medical History For Diagnosing Psoriatic Arthritis

Your road to a psoriatic arthritis diagnosis starts with talking to your rheumatologist in order to share symptoms and identify risk factors. While symptoms like joint pain could suggest a number of conditions, in psoriatic arthritis, joint pain often has specific characteristics, including the following:

• Joint pain that gets better with use
• Joint redness and swelling
• Swelling of an entire finger or toe as opposed to just one joint, called dactylitis or sausage digits
• Morning stiffness that lasts more than 30 minutes
• Changes in the nails of your fingers or toes, such as holes, pitting, discoloration or softness, which occurs in 80 to 90 percent of PsA cases

When patients talk about these psoriatic arthritis symptoms, rheumatologists like Dr. Kumar hear a number of common concerns, such as My shoes dont fit, I feel stiff all over in the mornings, and I have trouble opening jars or door knobs.

Along with listening to your symptoms, your rheumatologist will want to hear about any possible risk factors for psoriatic arthritis. While this condition can affect patients of both genders at a range of ages, the following can increase your risk:

• Having psoriasis
• Having a family history of PsA, psoriasis, or associated conditions, including ankylosing spondylitis, Crohns disease, ulcerative colitis, autoimmune uveitis, and reactive arthritis

Orthopedic Doctor For Arthritis In Little Rock

At Bowen Hefley Orthopedics, our team of board-certified orthopedists and physician assistants are committed to providing world-class care to help you live pain free. If your arthritis is affecting your quality of life, know that you dont have to live with it any longer. Call Bowen Hefley Orthopedics at 336-2412 to schedule an appointment or use our online request form. With four convenient locations around Little Rock, there is an office near you.

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Should I See A Doctor

Its common to have aches and pains in your muscles and joints from time to time. This may especially be true if you take part in unusual or strenuous physical activities.

So, how can you tell the difference between the early signs of arthritis and normal pain and stiffness? And, how do you know when you should see a doctor about your symptoms?

If you have swelling or stiffness that you cant explain and that doesn’t go away in a few days, or if it becomes painful to touch your joints, you should see a doctor. The earlier you get a diagnosis and start the right type of treatment, the better the outcome will be.

Here are some other things to think about that might help you decide whether you need to see a doctor:

Who Decides If I Need Surgery

If you and your doctor think you may require surgery, your doctor will refer you to an orthopaedic surgeon. The surgeon will assess you and recommend whether or not you will benefit from surgery. In some cases surgery may not be recommended. If surgery is recommended it is still your decision whether to have it.

Before you decide, make sure you understand:

• what are the possible benefits
• what are the specific risks with this type of surgery
• whether there are any other options
• what will happen if you dont have this surgery
• the likely cost.

Remember not having surgery is always one of your options. Your doctor or surgeon should be happy to arrange a second opinion if you want one.

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Why Go To A Hand Specialist For Arthritis

Painful and swollen hands are the first signs of arthritis. Arthritis can affect any part of your body, even the joints in your hands. It can make simple tasks like holding up a glass or mug, brushing your teeth, or turning a doorknob difficult.

While there is no cure for arthritis, you can manage symptoms and slow down the degeneration of your joints. Arthritis sufferers who get treatment and guidance from orthopedic doctors can live normal lives despite their condition.

An orthopedic hand specialist is trained and knowledgeable in various treatments that can ease the symptoms of arthritis in the hands and wrists. A hand specialist who is also a hand surgeon can perform surgical procedures that can help repair damaged joints and tendons in the hand due to arthritis.

Home Remedies And Lifestyle

Regular exercise can reduce pain and improve physical function, muscle strength, and quality of life for people with arthritis, and it is strongly recommended for people who have arthritis. While it can be difficult to be motivated to exercise when you are having symptoms such as pain or fatigue, choosing the right exercise that you also enjoy can make a big difference in your quality of life.

Eating a nutritious diet is important for maintaining ideal weight and for bone health. There is no known diet that can cure arthritis, so you can start by following the basics of healthy eating you may also benefit from incorporating anti-inflammatory foods.

Reducing stressmay also help calm the pain and stiffness associated with arthritis. Being under stress can heighten your pain perception. A study also found that psychological stress was associated with flares and relapse in people with rheumatoid arthritis.

Home remedies to manage pain and stiffness can help you keep it from interfering with daily living. You can try tactics such as cryotherapy , heat therapy or warm water therapy , or self-massage. Beware of folk remedies.

Assistive devices can help protect your joints and make it easier for you to go about your day. Look into canes, walkers, raised toilet seats, grabbers, and other helpful devices.

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Predisposing Factors To Osteoarthritis Of Hip

• A previous fracture that involved the hip
• Growth abnormalities of the hip may lead to premature arthritis
• Some childhood hip problems later cause hip arthritis
• Inactive lifestyle- e.g., Obesity Your weight is the single most important link between diet and arthritis, as being overweight puts an additional burden on your hips, knees, ankles and feet

Stop Fearing Medications That May Help

Arthritis patients sometimes avoid painkillers because they’re afraid they’ll become addicted to them, or they choose not to use biologic drugs because they fear potential serious side effects. Remember that your healthcare provider would never prescribe something that might hurt you or that you could become dependent on as long as you take it as directed.

Make sure you understand when and how much of your medication you should take, and how you should take it and your arthritis meds should do nothing more than make it easier for you to live comfortably.

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Laboratory Tests For Diagnosing Psoriatic Arthritis

Your rheumatologist will likely order a series of laboratory tests, the results of which will help check for other conditions or point to psoriatic arthritis. These studies will examine factors such as the following:

• Complete blood count
• Erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein , which are inflammatory markers that might be elevated in PsA but should not be elevated in wear-and tear osteoarthritis or arthritis
• Rheumatoid factor and anti-cyclic citrillunated peptide , which are antibodies often present in cases of rheumatoid arthritis, but not commonly found in cases of PsA
• Blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, uric acid, and urinalysis

Why Choose An Internal Medicine Physician

Arthritis is a complex condition that can be difficult to diagnose. Internal medicine doctors are trained in the diagnosis and treatment of such conditions. They will be able to distinguish the symptoms of arthritis from other conditions.

Internal medicine physicians have a thorough understanding of the types of medical treatments arthritis patients need. They can prescribe medications and administer injections to reduce pain and inflammation caused by arthritis. They also understand the complexities of the human body and can recommend treatments that will best suit your body.

Another added benefit of getting your arthritis treated by an internal medicine physician is that you can get medical care for other conditions at the same time. It can be a hassle and time consuming to juggle multiple doctors and visit different offices for every medical need you have. Fortunately, internal medicine physicians are qualified to treat all types of conditions and can take care of a variety of health issues you may be having not just arthritis.

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When Should Someone Seek Medical Care For Arthritis

• If joint pain, swelling, stiffness, redness, loss of motion or deformity occurs, medical evaluation by a health care professional is warranted.
• Even minor joint symptoms that persist unexplained for over one week should be evaluated.
• For many forms of arthritis, it is essential that patients have an early evaluation as it is clear that this can both prevent damage and disability as well as make optimal treatment easier.

Vaccinations For People With Ra

One size does not fit all when it comes to vaccines. In general, however, when it comes to the usual vaccinations most people with RA are still able to receive them, including those taking medications to treat their RA. Consult with your doctor to find out which annual or seasonal vaccines, including those used for travel, are right for you. To learn more, see .

Posted: 3/22/2021

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How To Prepare For Your First Appointment

Your first appointment will ultimately set the tone for your RA treatment plan. Therefore, preparation is key to making sure your rheumatologist has all of the information needed to treat your symptoms properly. Not having enough information can result in more appointments and perhaps further diagnostic testing to get the data your doctor needs.

First, make sure you can provide a thorough account of your symptoms. It can help to have a journal or notepad detailing key things, such as:

• when your symptoms started
• when the last time you were totally well was
• if there was an event preceding the onset of symptoms
• how your symptoms have changed
• whether your symptoms have worsened or spread to other joints
• which joints bother you the most right now
• how your symptoms affect everyday activities
• certain activities or movements that worsen your symptoms
• if theres certain normal daily functions that have become difficult

Since RA is an autoimmune disorder, genetics are thought to play a role in its development. This means that you might have a family history of autoimmune disorders. Your relatives may not necessarily have RA, however.

RA is thought to be related to a gene called HLA-DR4. Ask your family members about the possibility of RA or other autoimmune disorders that exist in the family. Youll also want to provide your doctor with details surrounding your personal family history, including any other underlying diseases you might have.

Hand Surgeon In San Antonio Texas

At the Center for Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine, our hand surgery team diagnoses and treats a broad range of hand injuries and conditions, including arthritis.

Our extensive education and training enable us to treat the most complex hand issues. For any type of hand or wrist pain and injury, call the Center for Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine at 692-7400 or request an appointment now. We are happy to provide you the highest quality care for your hand condition.

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Who Can Help With My Joint Pain Or Arthritis

Your PCP will guide you in the right direction regarding which specialist you need to see in further treating your health concerns. Many health insurance plans require that a PCP first refer the patient to a consulting specialist before a visit to this specialist is covered by your medical plan.

If you suffer pain and disability due to arthritis, body trauma, injury, or an accident , an orthopedist can help. The staff at Orthopaedic Associates utilizes both cutting-edge therapies and traditional treatments to address a variety of orthopedic conditions.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, call 892-1440 or fill out our easy-to-use online appointment request form. We look forward to hearing from you.