Arthritis

There are over 100 distinct forms of arthritis, and their impact on your joints can rob you of mobility and cause daily pain. At Austin Sports Medicine in Central and South Austin, with additional offices in Bee Cave, Cedar Park, and Pflugerville, Texas, the team of experienced orthopedic surgeons carefully evaluates signs of arthritis. It provides effective treatments for better long-term health and symptom relief. To book an arthritis consultation with an expert provider, call the office or use the online scheduling tool today.

Are there different types of arthritis?

Arthritis is an umbrella term healthcare professionals use to refer to a group of conditions that affect the joints, the structures where two bones meet. There are more than 100 types of arthritis.

One of the primary forms of arthritis is osteoarthritis, a degenerative condition in which the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones gradually deteriorates. Osteoarthritis develops over time but can accelerate after a significant joint injury. In severe cases, it can lead to chronic pain and disability.

Another prominent form is rheumatoid arthritis (RA), an autoimmune disease that causes the body’s immune system to attack the synovial membrane, the protective lining of the joints. RA can affect virtually any joint in the body but tends to target the smaller joints first, such as those in the hands and feet.

What are the symptoms of arthritis?

The symptoms of arthritis can vary depending on the type and severity of your arthritis. Common signs of arthritis include joint pain, along with:

• Stiffness
• Redness
• Swelling
• Tenderness
• Warmth around the joint

In the early stages, individuals with arthritis may experience only mild symptoms, such as stiffness, especially in the morning. However, as the disease progresses, symptoms typically worsen and persist for longer.

Can my arthritis be healed?

Currently, there’s no cure for arthritis. However, there are effective treatments available to help manage symptoms and improve your quality of life. The team at Austin Sports Medicine offers a range of advanced, evidence-based treatments aimed at providing long-term relief, including hyaluronic acid (HA) viscosupplementation injections to relieve pain and help the joint move more smoothly.

Early intervention is key, and prompt treatment often yields better outcomes with conservative approaches. Other treatment options include:

• Medications
• Physical therapy
• Manual manipulation
• Activity modification
• Prescription pain medications

If conservative treatments don’t alleviate symptoms or if there’s significant joint damage, surgical intervention may be necessary. In severe cases, total joint replacement surgery may be required for major joints such as the hips, knees, shoulders, or ankles.

The Austin Sports Medicine team thoroughly evaluates each patient’s condition to tailor a treatment plan to their needs. To schedule an appointment or learn more about arthritis treatment options, call the nearest location or request a consultation online today.