As a leading cause of disability, especially among older adults, arthritis continues to be a threat considering that medical experts have yet to find its cure. Fortunately, the JAM Wellness Clinics specialists offer several conservative treatments, such as arthritis injections Dallas which relieve arthritis symptoms helping you lead a more fulfilling life.

What you should know about arthritis

Arthritis is the inflammation, tenderness, and swelling of one or several joints. The signature symptoms of this disease are stiffness and joint pain which deteriorates as you age. Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the most prevalent forms of arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is described as an autoimmune disorder that attacks the lining of your joints.

Excess uric acid in your blood can lead to the development of gout, another form of arthritis. Underlying and infectious diseases like lupus and psoriasis can also contribute to other forms of arthritis. Your treatment will rely on the form of arthritis. Although there is no precise cure for the disorder, JAM Wellness Clinics offer several treatment options, including arthritis injections that slow down its progression while alleviating your symptoms.

Factors contributing to the development of the inflammatory disorder

Osteoarthritis is the most destructive form of arthritis that mainly affects older adults. It is a slow-progressive disorder that worsens over time, and the damage is irreversible. Early detection and intervention can slow progression, enabling you to go about your daily activities without much trouble. Although medical experts are yet to identify the real cause of the inflammatory disorder, they believe specific factors may increase your risk. Such factors include obesity, being a woman, old age, family history, and previous joint injury.

Diagnostic procedures for arthritis

Experiencing joint pain once in a while due to fatigue or mild injuries is normal. However, if the pain deteriorates over time, you may need medical intervention. During your appointment at JAM Wellness Clinics, your provider may discuss your symptoms and review your family health history. The team may conduct a thorough physical exam which may involve evaluating your range of motion and mobility, checking for tenderness and swelling in the affected joints, and assessing your general health. The physician may also order imaging exams to obtain a clear picture of your soft tissues, bones, and joints. An MRI, Ultrasound, or X-ray can help your provider detect soft tissue inflammation, bone fractures, cartilage breakdown, and tendon, ligament, or muscle injuries.

Available treatment options for arthritis

Your provider may initially recommend conservative treatments before advancing to more aggressive options. The team may prescribe pain and anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy to restore joint strength and flexibility while alleviating your pain. Your therapist can also help you make a few modifications in your daily activities to minimize the pain. Your doctor may also recommend arthritis injections such as cortisone shots to relieve inflammation and pain in the affected joints. If the conservative methods prove futile, your doctor may suggest surgery to improve your joint health.

Call the JAM Wellness Clinics office for more information about arthritis treatments, or book an appointment online.