Arthritis

Affecting over 54 million adults, arthritis is one of the most prevalent diseases in the United States. Austin McPhilamy, MD, at McPhilamy Bone and Joint in Scottsbluff, Nebraska, offers effective treatments for patients with arthritis. If you or a loved one suffers from this degenerative joint disease, call the office or book an appointment online to receive expert treatment. 

What is arthritis?

Arthritis is a disease that causes inflammation in one or more of your joints. There are over 100 different types of arthritis, most of which cause pain and stiffness in your joints. Arthritis can make it difficult or impossible to perform everyday activities, such as walking or climbing stairs.

Fortunately, Dr. McPhilamy and the team at McPhilamy Bone and Joint offer a variety of treatments to reduce the common symptoms of arthritis, like pain and reduced mobility.

What are the most common types of arthritis?

Arthritis describes a wide range of conditions that affect people of all ages. However, the most prevalent forms of this disease are more likely to affect older adults.

The most common types of arthritis include:

Osteoarthritis

This is the most prevalent type of arthritis. Osteoarthritis involves wear-and-tear damage to the cartilage that covers the ends of your bones where they meet at a joint. When the cartilage becomes damaged enough, your bones may rub together and cause pain.

Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a disease that occurs when your immune system attacks the tissue that lines your joint. This initially causes swelling and inflammation in the affected joint, but it can progressively worsen to the point of destroying bone and cartilage.

What are the symptoms of arthritis?

Arthritis symptoms may vary depending on the type you have and the severity of your condition. Common arthritis symptoms include:

• Joint pain and stiffness
• Decreased range of motion
• Redness and swelling

Arthritis is easiest to treat in its early stages, so it’s important to schedule an appointment at McPhilamy Bone and Joint if you experience these symptoms.

How is arthritis diagnosed and treated?

First, Dr. McPhilamy performs a physical exam and reviews your medical history. He may also take blood tests and imaging tests, such as an X-ray, to diagnose the specific type of arthritis you have.

Then, he develops a personalized treatment plan based on your unique needs and lifestyle factors. Depending on your condition and the physical demands of daily life, treatment for arthritis may include:

• Physical therapy 
• Activity modification
• Splinting or bracing
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Joint injections 

If your condition doesn’t improve with conservative therapies, Dr. McPhilamy may recommend surgery. Dr. McPhilamy performs many types of joint replacement surgeries to treat arthritis.

To find relief from arthritis, call McPhilamy Bone and Joint or request an appointment online today.