Arthritis means joint inflammation. There are approximately 200 conditions that affect joints and surrounding/connective tissue. It is a rheumatic condition. The most common form of arthritis is osteoarthritis.
Other common rheumatic conditions related to arthritis:
- Gout
- Fibromyalgia
- Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
Rheumatic conditions tend to involve pain, aching, stiffness, and swelling in and around one or more joints. The symptoms can develop gradually or suddenly. Certain rheumatic conditions stem from the immune system and various internal organs of the body. Some forms of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, can affect multiple organs and cause widespread symptoms.
Arthritis in America
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 50 million adults in the United States have received a diagnosis of some form of arthritis. Arthritis sufferers have their daily activity curtailed in some way by their condition. Arthritis is more common among adults aged 65 years or older, but it can affect people of all ages, including children.
Outstanding Arthritis Doctor
As an outstanding arthritis doctor, Dr. Howard Marans prefers to take a conservative, non-surgical approach to treating arthritis. When developing a successful arthritis treatment plan, Dr. Marans considers individual needs of every patients. In most cases, a customized approach to physical therapy will avoid the need for surgery. A non-surgical approach to arthritis treatment can avoid the need for a complete joint replacement. However, to restore function and control, it may be necessary to operate on a joint affected with arthritis.
Physical therapy and exercise. Initially, the Doctor may send you to physical therapy until you are comfortable doing the exercises on your own at home. This helps you establish a routine. The physical therapist can monitor your progress and suggest adjustments to your exercise plan if pain persists.
Recommendation to lose weight. Being overweight puts extra stress on your joints. This can worsen your osteoarthritis symptoms. If you are obese, you may be able to reduce your symptoms by losing as little as 10% of your body weight.
Taking NSAIDs to relieve pain. The Doctor may recommend that you take over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to relieve pain-causing inflammation. It is important to follow the recommended dosage and take as needed. NSAIDs can increase your risk of developing a stomach ulcer or abnormal bleeding.
Lifestyle changes. While you may not be able to fully prevent osteoarthritis, you can prevent flare-ups of your symptoms by making a few changes in your lifestyle, including:
- Dietary changes
- Avoiding activities that promote stress on your joints
- Maintaining proper body alignment
OC Orthopedics+ Offers
- Cost-effective surgical treatment – open reduction/internal fixation surgery or arthroscopic surgery
- Compassionate care
- Rapid and permanent recovery
- Accurate diagnosis of the cause of pain
- Complete explanation of treatment options
- Assessing every patient’s expectations from treatment
Outstanding Arthritis Doctor in Santa Ana CA
Dr. Howard Marans has over 20 years of providing his patients with whole body care and rehabilitation. The Doctor’s mission is to treat all patients in a professional, timely manner.
Schedule your initial consultation with Dr. Howard Marans in his new Santa Ana CA location. Please click the icon below – or – call 714.979.8981.
