With the elevating frequency of arthritis-related pain and disability in today’s world, it’s important to know the risks and warning signs.
The CDC (www.cdc.gov) identifies six main types of arthritis:
- RA (Rheumatoid Arthritis)
- OA (Osteoarthritis)
- Childhood arthritis
- Fibromyalgia
- Gout
- Lupus
While each of these arthritic conditions is a little bit different, they are all characterized by similar symptoms in the early stages and progress over time.
These can include:
- Inflammation
- Joint pain
- Stiffness
- Decreased range of motion
- Swelling
- Fatigue
- Decreased appetite/weight loss
- Fever
- Headaches
- Depression or anxiety
- Problems with memory and concentration
Risks for Arthritis Conditions
Besides the obvious factor of age, previous injury or infection is a major factor that puts one at risk of developing an arthritis condition. For example, a car accident may cause a contusion to the hip joint, and this can trigger a later onset of arthritis in the hip. There is a condition known as Post-Traumatic Arthritis, which can clear up on its own, but in some cases it can become chronic.
Beyond the risk factor of a specific event, there is the fact of long-term damage caused by overuse of the joint, as with athletes.
Vitamin deficiency is another factor. The inability to absorb the mineral calcium can be caused by low Vitamin D, and has been linked to arthritis.
Treatment Options
We’ve all seen the commercials for medication to treat arthritis pain and symptoms. While drugs will decrease the pain, they will not prevent the progression of the disease and loss of motion that will continue to worsen. Is there another way to relieve pain and prevent permanent damage from this condition? Now there is.
Injections of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) can help the body actually repair the damaged joint tissues, and arrest the decline of this disease. PRP treatments have no side effects and are minimally invasive. It is not a drug and therefore can be administered to patients with nearly every type of arthritis condition, with no risk of allergic reaction.
There is no question that arthritis can cause problems with your quality of life. Contact us today to talk about your condition as soon as you see symptoms to find out what types of treatments are right for you (972) 285-6703.