Arthritis Pain Treatments
Relieve Pain. Restore Function.Arthritis Pain Causes
Arthritis refers to inflammation of one or more joints, which may cause pain and stiffness that worsens over time with age. The most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, although there are many different causes of arthritis.
Osteoarthritis occurs when wear and tear causes inflammation which breaks down the cartilage that lines the joint, resulting in pain and decreased range of motion. Rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the immune system attacks the synovial joint lining, with eventual breakdown of cartilage and bone.
Arthritis Pain Treatment
Diagnosis for arthritis pain is made by physical exam, lab tests, and radiological studies. Once a diagnosis has been made, we may coordinate or perform the following treatments to help relieve your pain and restore function:
- Inflammation-reducing medication
- Disease-modifying medications that slow the immune system from attacking the joint
- Biologic response modifiers
- Corticosteroids
- Pain medications
- Physical therapy to improve range of motion and strengthen the muscles that support the joint
- Joint repair or replacement surgery