Arthritis Symptoms & Treatment Raleigh, Cary & Garner NC
Understanding Arthritis
Arthritis is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by inflammation and stiffness in the joints, leading to pain and decreased mobility. At Bowling Orthopaedics, we specialize in providing comprehensive and personalized treatment options for arthritis patients in Raleigh, Cary, and Garner NC.
Common Arthritis Symptoms
Recognizing the symptoms of arthritis is crucial for early diagnosis and effective treatment. Some common symptoms of arthritis include:
- Joint pain: Arthritis typically causes pain in the affected joints. The pain may vary in intensity and may worsen with movement.
- Stiffness: Arthritis can make the joints feel stiff, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
- Swelling: Inflammation in the joints can cause swelling, leading to discomfort and reduced range of motion.
- Redness and warmth: Arthritic joints may appear red and feel warm to the touch due to increased blood flow.
- Joint deformity: In advanced cases, arthritis can cause joint deformities and changes in the joint structure.
Types of Arthritis
There are several types of arthritis, each with its own unique characteristics and treatment approaches. The most common types of arthritis include:
Osteoarthritis (OA)
Osteoarthritis is the most prevalent form of arthritis, often referred to as "wear and tear" arthritis. It occurs when the protective cartilage cushioning the joints gradually wears down, resulting in bone-on-bone friction. This leads to pain, stiffness, and limited joint mobility.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the joints, leading to inflammation and damage. It commonly affects the hands, wrists, and feet and can cause severe joint pain, swelling, and deformity.
Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA)
Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects individuals with psoriasis. It can cause joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, along with skin manifestations such as red, scaly patches.
Gout
Gout is a form of arthritis characterized by sudden and severe attacks of joint pain, most commonly in the big toe. It occurs due to the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to inflammation.
Treatment Options
Bowling Orthopaedics offers a wide range of treatment options to help alleviate arthritis symptoms and improve quality of life. Our experienced team of orthopedic specialists will develop a personalized treatment plan based on your specific needs and condition. Some of the treatment modalities we provide include:
Medications
Depending on the type and severity of your arthritis, we may prescribe medications to reduce pain, control inflammation, and slow down disease progression. These may include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), or corticosteroids.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy plays a vital role in managing arthritis symptoms. Our skilled physical therapists will design exercise programs to improve joint flexibility, strengthen muscles, and enhance overall mobility. They may also incorporate modalities like heat and cold therapy for pain relief.
Joint Injections
In some cases, joint injections may be recommended to provide immediate pain relief and reduce inflammation. These injections can include corticosteroids, hyaluronic acid, or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, depending on the specific needs of the patient.
Surgical Interventions
In advanced cases of arthritis where conservative treatments have not provided sufficient relief, surgical intervention may be considered. Our orthopedic surgeons are highly skilled in performing procedures like joint replacement, arthroscopy, and joint fusion, providing long-term pain management and improved joint function.
Why Choose Bowling Orthopaedics?
There are several reasons why patients in Raleigh, Cary, and Garner NC choose Bowling Orthopaedics for their arthritis treatment:
- Specialized Expertise: Our orthopedic specialists have extensive experience in diagnosing and treating various types of arthritis. We stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in arthritis management to provide the best possible care to our patients.
- Comprehensive Approach: We take a holistic approach to arthritis treatment, addressing not just the symptoms but also the underlying causes. Our goal is to improve your overall quality of life by reducing pain, increasing joint function, and optimizing your mobility.
- Person-Centered Care: At Bowling Orthopaedics, we believe in personalized care tailored to each patient's unique needs and goals. We take the time to understand your symptoms, concerns, and aspirations and develop a customized treatment plan that works best for you.
- Advanced Treatment Options: We offer cutting-edge treatment options, including minimally invasive surgery, regenerative medicine techniques, and the latest advancements in joint replacement technology. Our commitment to innovation ensures that you receive the most advanced and effective treatments available.
- Compassionate Team: Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate and supportive care throughout your arthritis treatment journey. We are here to answer your questions, address your concerns, and guide you every step of the way towards a pain-free and active life.
Contact Us for Arthritis Treatment
If you are experiencing arthritis symptoms or need expert advice on managing your arthritis condition, contact Bowling Orthopaedics today. Our specialist team will assess your situation and provide personalized treatment options to help you find relief. Take the first step towards a pain-free life and schedule your appointment with us. We are proud to serve patients in Raleigh, Cary, Garner NC, and the surrounding areas.