Definition: Arthritis is characterized by swelling and tenderness of one or more joints.
Symptoms: Joint pain and stiffness, worsening with age.
Common Types:
Osteoarthritis: Cartilage breakdown at joint ends.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: Immune system attacks joint linings.
Causes
Osteoarthritis: Results from wear-and-tear on joint cartilage; can be expedited by injury or infection.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: Immune system attacks the synovial membrane, leading to inflammation and swelling.
Symptoms
Common Signs:
Pain
Stiffness
Swelling
Redness
Reduced range of motion
Treatments
Medications
NSAIDs: For pain relief and inflammation reduction; includes ibuprofen and naproxen sodium. Risks include stomach irritation and cardiovascular problems.
Counterirritants: Creams with menthol/capsaicin to block pain signals.
Steroids: Corticosteroids like prednisone to reduce inflammation, administered orally or via injection.
DMARDs: Slow rheumatoid arthritis progression; includes traditional, biologic, and targeted synthetic options.
Therapy
Physical Therapy: Exercises to improve motion range and strengthen muscles around joints.
Splints or Braces: Sometimes required.
Surgery
Joint Repair: Smoothing or realigning surfaces; often minimally invasive (arthroscopically).
Joint Replacement: Damaged joint replaced, commonly hips and knees.
Joint Fusion: Often for smaller joints; bones are fused into one solid piece.
Reviews
Highlighted Feedback:
Positive mentions of digital marketing courses, though not directly related to arthritis treatments.
Contact Information
Locations: Various centers in Alamogordo, Albuquerque, Las Cruces, Rio Rancho, Roswell, Santa Fe, NM.
Additional Information
The center provides a wide range of pain management services and has a comprehensive website layout for easy access to information and appointments.