More than 50 million Americans suffer from one of several types of arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, osteoarthritis and degenerative arthritis. Arthritis is complicated in that it includes musculoskeletal disorders of more than 100 different diseases or conditions. Arthritis is not limited to people of old age; it impacts people of all ages and walks of life and its treatments and causes are varied.
An accurate diagnosis from the arthritis doctors at Midwest Sports Medicine can bring arthritis pain relief as there is a multitude of treatment options and solutions.
What are the causes of arthritis?
There are a multitude of factors to consider, so it will be helpful to begin with the basics:
Arthritis literally means “inflammation of a joint.” In some forms of arthritis, such as osteoarthritis, inflammation occurs because the smooth covering on the ends of bones can become worn out or damaged. Osteoarthritis is usually found in one, usually weight-bearing, joint.
In other forms of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, it’s the joint lining that becomes inflamed. In this case it is part of a disease that progresses and affects the entire body.
There’s a genetic component – if your parents have arthritis, you have an increased chance of suffering from it. Other causes include trauma or illness. For example, rheumatism, lupus and psoriasis cause the body to secrete enzymes that soften cartilage – making joints more vulnerable to wear. Severe arthritis can limit mobility and seriously impact quality of life.
Arthritis is a major cause of lost work time and serious disability for many people, young and old alike.
Arthritis Treatment
Helping people getting back to what they enjoy is our specialty. We provide targeted arthritis treatment geared toward the specific needs of each patient – which may involve medication, physical therapy and possible surgery. While medications can sometimes reduce pain and inflammation, many patients require joint replacement to regain their sense of well-being.