Arthritis in Atlanta, GA

As a condition that leads to a substantial amount of inflammation and swelling within the joints, arthritis can develop in numerous locations within the body; however, it typically starts in the hands and wrists. The most prevalent kinds of arthritis are osteoarthritis (occurs when cartilage begins to break down) and rheumatoid arthritis (develops in the joint’s lining). In addition to inflammation, arthritis can also result in pain and discomfort, stiffness, and reduced mobility and flexibility. Depending on the severity and type of your arthritis, Dr. Christopher Williams in Atlanta, GA can formulate the appropriate treatment plan to allow you to live more comfortably and alleviate pain and swelling in affected joints. When you have been diagnosed with arthritis or suspect that you may be suffering from the condition, we encourage you to contact Interventional Orthopedics of Atlanta to schedule a consultation with Dr. Williams and his skilled team.

There are two types of arthritis – osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. While both conditions damage joints, each has different causes. Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. It is caused by the normal wear and tear on joints, typically as a result of the natural aging process or an injury. The cartilage which cushions the joints as they bend and move gets worn down to where bone begins grinding on bone, resulting in damage, pain, and reduced function and mobility. Rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the body's own immune system attacks the lining of the membrane that encases the joints. This causes inflammation, swelling, stiffness, and pain. Over time this can also damage cartilage and the bone in the joint itself. Risk factors for developing arthritis include:

• Sex – women have a higher risk of developing arthritis than men
• Age – as we age, the risks of arthritis increase
• Genetics – if you have a family history of arthritis, you may be at a higher risk
• Joint injuries – often increase the risk of arthritis at the point of injury
• Obesity – added weight puts extra strain and pressure on joints

Several symptoms of arthritis can affect your everyday life and impede your ability to live comfortably. Some of the most common side effects include:

• Inflammation and pain in one or more joints
• Stiffness that typically occurs in the morning
• Decreased mobility and flexibility
• In severe cases, weight loss, fatigue, or anemia
• Discomfort and pain that can become more intense with long periods of sitting

When you are experiencing any of these unpleasant symptoms of arthritis, it may be time to seek professional medical attention from our team at Interventional Orthopedics of Atlanta. We can help you experience restorative, long-term results.

Patients can experience many forms of arthritis, which greatly impact their daily lives. Rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, or osteoarthritis affects different parts of the body and causes many uncomfortable symptoms.

Pain caused by knee arthritis usually starts slow, but it may occur without warning in some cases. Depending on the type of arthritis you have, you can experience various symptoms, like waking up with knee pain, pain in the morning, redness, warmth, inflammation, or a swollen knee. Your symptoms may become worse during stress, cold weather, or strenuous activities. Our team works hard to find an option that provides knee pain relief. During a private consultation, each patient receives a personalized knee pain treatment plan that helps alleviate their symptoms.

Risk factors for arthritis include age, as the likelihood increases with advancing years, and a family history of the condition, which suggests a genetic predisposition. Obesity can also be a significant risk factor, as excess weight places additional stress on joints, particularly the knees, hips, and spine. Previous joint injuries, repetitive stress on joints from certain occupations or sports, and underlying health conditions such as diabetes or autoimmune diseases can also contribute to the development of arthritis. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and managing weight can help reduce these risks.

For most patients, a less invasive approach to treatment will be recommended initially. This could include medications, steroid injections, or occupational or physical therapy. For patients with arthritic knee pain, we may recommend subchondral injections for knee arthritis. If any of these treatment methods prove to be ineffective, then Dr. Williams may discuss more intensive forms of treatment to alleviate your pain and discomfort and restore mobility. In a comprehensive consultation, Dr. Williams will use diagnostic imaging tests, such as x-rays, an MRI, or a CT scan, to obtain an overall view of your joints and identify any underlying concerns. From there, he can curate the best possible treatment plan in order to make sure you receive an optimal outcome.

After your treatment at Interventional Orthopedics of Atlanta, our team will provide you with all appropriate aftercare instructions and let you know what you can expect during the recovery process. Most patients will require a series of treatments or follow-up care in order to achieve the best possible results. In addition, Dr. Williams may recommend that you complete occupational or physical therapy as a way to strengthen and increase mobility in your treated joints. We encourage you to contact our facility if you have any questions or concerns during your recovery process.

Can I prevent arthritis?
You may be able to reduce your risk of getting certain types of arthritis by taking control of some of the different risk factors, like your weight, infection, injuries to the joints, your job (if it involves repetitive bending and squatting), and smoking. There are factors that you cannot control, however, including your age, genetics, and gender (women are more susceptible to arthritis).

Can children get arthritis?
While it may not seem possible, yes, children can develop arthritis. Typically, children will develop a form of arthritis called juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). Often referred to as "childhood arthritis" or "juvenile rheumatoid arthritis," common symptoms include joint pain, swelling, fever, fatigue, rash, inflammation of the eye, and difficulty with daily activities (walking, dressing, playing). If your child has any of these symptoms, you may want to make an appointment with Dr. Williams.

Are there warning signs of arthritis?
You may experience some indication of arthritis. While joint pain may come and go, you may find that you have difficulty completing daily tasks, like walking, bending, or climbing the stairs. It can occur after a long day, but it can also occur after you've been still for a bit. You may even notice that the area of skin over your joint is swollen, red, and hot.

What causes arthritis?
It's generally not known what causes arthritis, mostly because there are so many different varieties. However, it seems to mostly come down to 1) genetics and 2) how you live your life. Arthritis can only be diagnosed by a doctor after performing several tests and evaluating your medical history and symptoms.

Is there a cure for arthritis?

It is not possible to completely cure arthritis, but available treatments in Atlanta, GA may address unwanted symptoms like pain and inflammation. Our team proudly provides comprehensive care to patients of all needs and backgrounds who are suffering from arthritis. Feel empowered to take control of your health so you can live life without fear or discomfort.

Can lifestyle changes help manage my arthritis?

Yes, Dr. Williams may suggest simple but impactful lifestyle changes as part of your arthritis treatment. This could include making alterations to your current exercise regimen, incorporating inflammation-fighting foods into your diet, and managing stress levels. We can develop a plan that suits the needs of your body and lifestyle.

At Interventional Orthopedics of Atlanta, our top priority is to allow you to attain noticeable pain relief from arthritic symptoms. As an experienced orthopedic physician, Dr. Christopher Williams works to provide optimal care to each and every patient who visits our Atlanta, GA facility. Contact our practice to learn more about innovative care for treating arthritis and to schedule an initial consultation with Dr. Williams and his team.