Arthritis

If you suffer from stiff, sore, achy joints because of arthritis and need relief, see the health care providers at Richmond Primary Care Specialists in the Prince’s Bay neighborhood of Staten Island, New York City. Their outstanding medical team provides treatments for arthritis to ease symptoms and reduce the risk of further joint damage. Schedule an evaluation by calling the office or booking an appointment online today. 

What is arthritis?

Arthritis is a chronic disease that affects muscles, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and bones in your joints. It may develop because of genetic or environmental factors, but it can become debilitating when not treated. At the first sign of joint swelling or aching, see the Richmond Primary Care Specialists team for an evaluation.

Which symptoms can arthritis cause?

Arthritis can cause the following symptoms:

• Joint aching
• Swelling
• Tenderness
• Stiffness
• Decreased range of motion
• Reduced mobility
• Redness
• Pain
• Visible joint deformities

The severity of arthritis symptoms varies from person to person and may gradually worsen over time if not treated.

What may increase the risk of arthritis?

While the exact cause of arthritis isn’t always clear, its risk factors include:

• Family history of arthritis
• Aging
• Previous joint injury
• Carrying excess body weight

Rheumatoid arthritis is a form of arthritis that develops when your immune system attacks the lining of your joints. Women are more likely than men to develop this form of arthritis. 

Osteoarthritis causes the cartilage on the ends of bones to deteriorate. 

Gout may appear when uric acid crystals form after uric acid builds up in your bloodstream. Men are more likely than women to have gout. 

How does a specialist diagnose arthritis?

The Richmond Primary Care Specialists team discusses your symptoms, reviews your medical history, and examines your joints to determine if you have arthritis. They may order blood tests, a urinalysis, joint fluid testing, or imaging procedures to confirm a diagnosis or determine the extent of damage present in your joints. 

How is arthritis treated?

Treating arthritis typically involves taking medications, receiving injections, or making lifestyle changes. You might undergo physical therapy or receive a referral for surgery.

It’s important to take your medications exactly as prescribed, eat nutritious foods, maintain a healthy body weight, and exercise as directed by your provider. You may also try heat or cold packs or dietary supplements to reduce joint discomfort and prevent further damage. 

Follow up with your provider to ensure the arthritis treatment is effective, and call the Richmond Primary Care Specialists office at any time with questions.

Schedule an arthritis evaluation at Richmond Primary Care Specialists by phone or request one online today.