Arthritis is generally considered an old people’s disease, inevitable as we age. However, arthritis is also related to stress and wear and tear on the skeletal system, which can occur at any age. Genetics, labor-intensive jobs, high impact sports, previous injuries, and certain lifestyle habits such as smoking are all contributory factors.
There are different forms of arthritis, brought on in different ways. While they can all be painful and uncomfortable, it is good to understand the different conditions to best know how to treat them.
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease and the most common form of arthritis. Joint cartilage degrades, exposing bone surfaces to damage that often results in pain, stiffness, tenderness, and swelling. Abnormalities may also develop in the bone or soft tissue, based upon the added friction and inflammation.
Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the body’s own healthy joints. Antibodies present in the blood target the body tissue, resulting in inflammation, pain, swelling, stiffness, damage, and loss of joint function. Multiple organs in the body can also be affected by rheumatoid arthritis.
Nowadays, aside from traditional medication treatments for arthritis, advanced research and treatments such as Stem Cell Therapy are giving arthritis sufferers new hope. Evidence continues to show that the usage of Stem Cell Therapy has better and faster outcomes. It can also help regulate the immune system.
If you are suffering from pain, please contact our office at (516) 419-4480 or (718) 215-1888 to arrange an appointment with our Interventional Pain Management Specialist, Dr. Jeffrey Chacko.